Best Time to Visit
June to September
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
Croatian
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Discover Hvar
Hvar isn't just an island; it's a sensory experience. The air carries the scent of sun-baked lavender from the inland fields, while the Adriatic sun reflects off the polished limestone of Hvar Town's main square, Europe's largest piazza. This is where 13th-century Venetian fortifications overlook a harbor filled with superyachts, and where ancient Greek agricultural plots at Stari Grad Plain (a UNESCO World Heritage site) exist just a short drive from the thumping beach clubs of Carpe Diem.
Beyond the glamour, Hvar offers authentic Dalmatian life in its stone villages. Wander the labyrinthine streets of Vrboska, the 'Little Venice' with its fortified church, or discover the secluded pebble coves near Milna. The Pakleni Islands archipelago, a short water taxi ride from Hvar Town, provides a car-free paradise of pine-shaded beaches and crystal-clear swimming spots, perfectly contrasting the island's vibrant nightlife.
Why Visit Hvar?
Legendary Nightlife & Glamour: Experience world-famous beach clubs like Carpe Diem Beach Hvar on Stipanska island and Hula Hula, where sunset parties are a ritual. The harbor promenade transforms into a chic social scene after dark, with bars like Kiva Bar and Pink Champagne offering vibrant atmospheres.
Stunning Natural Beauty & Beaches: Discover the unique Pakleni Islands, a chain of 21 islets with pristine coves like Ždrilca and Mlini. On the main island, find secluded pebble beaches such as Dubovica Bay with its historic villa and the iconic turquoise waters of Stiniva Cove (accessible by boat).
Rich Historical Tapestry: Explore the 13th-century Fortica (Španjola) fortress overlooking Hvar Town, the Renaissance-era Hvar Cathedral, and the historic Arsenal building housing the oldest public theatre in Europe. The ancient agricultural landscape of the Stari Grad Plain dates back to 384 BC.
Lavender & Local Produce: Drive through the fragrant lavender fields near the villages of Brusje and Velo Grablje in early summer. Visit local agrotourism farms like Nono to taste lavender honey, olive oil, and Hvar's unique plavac mali wines.
Nautical Paradise: Use Hvar as a base for sailing the central Dalmatian islands. Charter a boat or join a tour to explore hidden caves, remote islands like Šćedro, and quiet fishing villages inaccessible by road.
Authentic Dalmatian Villages: Escape the bustle in picturesque inland towns. Visit Stari Grad, one of Croatia's oldest towns with its Tvrdalj palace; Jelsa with its shaded promenade; or the tranquil, canal-laced village of Vrboska.
Hvar is Known For
Ready to explore Hvar?
Hvar Neighborhoods
Hvar Town
The vibrant, glamorous heart of the island, centered around a stunning yacht-filled harbor and a massive, sun-drenched piazza. This is where medieval history meets contemporary luxury and nightlife.
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Stari Grad
A quieter, more authentic harbor town on the north coast, boasting ancient Greek roots and a UNESCO-listed plain. Its maze of narrow stone streets exudes a relaxed, artistic atmosphere.
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Jelsa
A charming, family-friendly town on the north coast, known for its lush pine tree-lined waterfront promenade, calm beaches, and excellent local wine production.
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Vrboska
A picturesque fishing village often called 'Little Venice,' crisscrossed by charming canals and bridges. It's home to a unique fortified church and has a wonderfully tranquil vibe.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •For the best swimming, take a water taxi from Hvar Town to the Pakleni Islands. Go early to secure a spot at popular bays like Stipanska or Mlini, or ask the driver to drop you at a quieter cove.
- •The best lavender viewing is in late June and early July. Drive inland towards the villages of Brusje, Velo Grablje, and Zarace for the most photogenic fields.
- •Avoid the main harborfront restaurants in Hvar Town for dinner; they are the most expensive. Walk one street back (like Petra Hektorovića) for better value and more authentic konobas (taverns).
- •Rent a scooter or a small car for a day to explore the island's interior villages, hidden coves, and scenic roads like the one from Hvar Town to Stari Grad over the hills.
- •Buy your catamaran or ferry tickets online in advance during peak season (July-August). The Jadrolinija and Krilo lines sell out quickly, especially for popular routes to Split and Korčula.
- •The Fortica Fortress is worth the climb for sunset. The gates close at a specific time, but if you're inside, you're often allowed to stay a bit longer to enjoy the view as the lights come on in the town below.
- •For a unique beach experience, visit the 'secret' beach at Malo Zarace. It requires a short, steep walk down a path, but you'll be rewarded with a beautiful, often less crowded pebble cove.
- •If you want to experience the famous Hvar nightlife but not the high prices, pre-drink at a bar away from the harbor before heading to the clubs. Bottle service is standard at premium venues.
- •Visit the Green Market (Tržnica) in Hvar Town in the morning to buy fresh local fruit, olives, and cheese directly from producers. It's located just behind the main square.
- •The water in most beachside showers and some restaurant bathrooms is not potable. Always look for signs saying 'Ne piti' (Not for drinking) and buy bottled water or fill up from designated taps.
Hvar Food Scene
Hvar's cuisine is classic Dalmatian, emphasizing fresh seafood, olive oil, grilled meats, and vegetables, often cooked 'na žaru' (on the grill). Local wine, especially from the plavac mali grape, and wild herbs like rosemary and sage are staples. Dining is a leisurely social affair.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Konoba
- • Konoba Menego (Hvar Town) for peka
- • Konoba Kokot (Vrisnik) for authentic village atmosphere
- • Konoba Vrisnik (Vrisnik) for lamb and homemade pasta
Always book your peka in advance (usually by morning), as it takes hours to slow-cook.
Harborfront Seafood
- • Macondo (Hvar Town) for upscale seafood
- • Dalmatino (Hvar Town) for creative Dalmatian dishes
- • Restoran Gariful (Hvar Town) for a classic, buzzy experience
Harborfront spots are premium-priced. You're paying for the view and atmosphere as much as the food.
Agrotourism & Wine
- • Nono (Dol) for lavender products and tasting
- • Tomić Winery (Jelsa) for plavac mali
- • Duboković Winery (Jelsa) for unique aged wines
Agrotourism visits often require a reservation. They offer a deep dive into local produce beyond just wine tasting.
Casual & Street Food
- • Lola Bar (Stari Grad) for craft beer and burgers
- • Fig (Hvar Town) for smoothie bowls and healthy bites
- • Hvar's bakeries for burek (savory pastry) in the morning
For a quick, cheap lunch, find a bakery or a 'brza hrana' (fast food) spot selling ćevapi (grilled minced meat sausages) or pizzas.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Hvar
Spring
April to May brings mild, pleasant weather, blooming wildflowers, and lavender starting to flourish. The island is quiet, with most tourist services open by late April. The sea is still cool for swimming.
Pros:
- + Perfect hiking weather
- + No crowds
- + Lower accommodation prices
- + Lavender fields begin to bloom in May
Cons:
- - Sea temperature is chilly (16-19°C)
- - Some beach clubs/restaurants may still be closed in early spring
- - Unpredictable occasional rain
Summer
June to September is peak season, characterized by hot, dry days (averaging 28-30°C), endless sunshine, and a vibrant, bustling atmosphere. The sea is warm, and all facilities are open.
Pros:
- + Guaranteed hot, sunny weather
- + Warm sea perfect for swimming
- + All nightlife, tours, and restaurants operating
- + Lavender harvest in June/July
Cons:
- - High crowds and prices
- - Can be very hot in the afternoon
- - Need to book ferries and accommodation far in advance
- - Some beaches get packed
Autumn
October and November see the crowds dissipate, the weather remaining warm and pleasant into early October. The sea retains summer heat, making for excellent swimming. The grape harvest occurs.
Pros:
- + Warm sea (often warmer than air)
- + Fewer tourists
- + Pleasant temperatures for exploring
- + Wine harvest season events
Cons:
- - Increasing chance of rain, especially in November
- - Many beach clubs and seasonal businesses close from mid-October
- - Shorter daylight hours
Winter
December to March is the quietest period. The weather is mild but damp, with occasional strong winds (bura). The island life retreats to the local communities, with many hotels and restaurants closed.
Pros:
- + Absolute peace and quiet
- + Lowest prices
- + Authentic local life experience
- + Mild temperatures compared to northern Europe
Cons:
- - Many tourist facilities are closed
- - Weather can be windy and rainy
- - Not suitable for beach holidays
- - Limited ferry connections
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Day Trips from Hvar
Pakleni Islands
10-20 min by water taxi from Hvar Town
An archipelago of pine-covered islets offering Hvar's most idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's the perfect escape for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying laid-back beach bars.
Korčula Island
1 hour by high-speed catamaran from Hvar Town
Often described as a 'mini Dubrovnik,' this stunning island town features a beautifully preserved medieval core, excellent local white wines (Pošip, Grk), and a rich maritime history.
Blue Cave & Vis Island
Full-day boat tour (approx. 1.5-2 hours one way by speedboat)
A full-day boat tour to the spectacular Blue Cave on Biševo island, where sunlight creates an ethereal azure glow, combined with exploring the remote and unspoiled island of Vis, a former military base.
Hvar Budget Guide
Hvar is one of Croatia's more expensive destinations, especially in Hvar Town during peak season. Costs drop significantly in shoulder seasons and in smaller villages.
Budget
€50-80 per person for hostels, self-catering, public transport, and cheap eats.
per day
Mid-Range
€100-200 per person for a private room/3-star hotel, meals at mid-range konobas, some taxi boats, and activities.
per day
Luxury
€300+ per person for 4/5-star hotels, fine dining, yacht charters, premium beach clubs, and private tours.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Stay in Stari Grad, Jelsa, or Vrboska for significantly cheaper accommodation than Hvar Town.
- •Eat lunch away from the Hvar Town harborfront. The 'menu of the day' (dnevni meni) at konobas offers great value.
- •Use the public ferry (Jadrolinija) instead of faster catamarans for cheaper inter-island travel.
- •Buy drinks from supermarkets for pre-drinking before going to bars and clubs.
- •Rent a scooter for island exploration; it's cheaper than a car and easier to park.
Hvar Hidden Gems
Velo Grablje
An abandoned stone village in the island's interior, slowly being restored, known historically for its lavender production.
It offers a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Hvar's past, with stunning panoramic views and absolute tranquility, far from the coastal crowds.
Šćedro Island
A small, uninhabited island south of Hvar, with several protected coves, Roman ruins, and a single restaurant.
A true escape for sailors and those on boat tours, offering pristine nature, excellent snorkeling, and a sense of remote adventure.
St. Nicholas Fortress (Fortica)
The lesser-known, smaller fortress on the hill above Hvar Town, opposite the main Fortica.
It receives a fraction of the visitors of the main fortress but offers equally spectacular, if not better, panoramic views of the town and Pakleni Islands.
Zaraće Bay
A complex of several stunning, secluded pebble and sand beaches near the village of Zaraće, accessible by a steep path or boat.
Its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs are breathtaking. It's more rugged and less developed than the popular Pakleni Island beaches.
The Lavender Museum in Velo Grablje
A small, family-run museum in the restored village dedicated to the history and tools of lavender cultivation on Hvar.
It provides an intimate, authentic look at the island's most famous product, run by passionate locals who share personal stories.
Hvar Culture & Customs
Hvar's culture is a layered blend of its ancient Greek, Roman, Venetian, and Slavic heritage, evident in its architecture, festivals, and laid-back Dalmatian lifestyle. Life revolves around the sea, family, and enjoying simple pleasures like coffee on the riva (waterfront) or an evening stroll. The island has a strong artistic and literary tradition.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet shopkeepers and staff with 'Dobar dan' (Good day).
- •Swimwear is for the beach only; cover up when walking through town or entering shops/cafes.
- •Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is standard for good service.
- •Be patient; service can be leisurely, especially during busy meal times. Dining is meant to be relaxed.
- •Respect private property, especially when exploring secluded coves or lavender fields.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Hvar
Do I need a car on Hvar Island?
Not if you're staying in one town and taking boat trips. However, to explore inland villages, remote beaches, and multiple towns efficiently, renting a car or scooter is highly recommended. Local buses connect main towns but run infrequently.
What is the best way to get to Hvar from Split?
The most common way is by passenger catamaran (Krilo or Jadrolinija, ~1 hour) or car ferry (Jadrolinija, ~2 hours) from Split's main port. Catamarans are faster but can be affected by wind. Ferries are slower but more stable and carry vehicles. Always check the departure port as some services leave from different locations.
Is Hvar only for partying?
No. While Hvar Town has legendary nightlife, the island is diverse. Stari Grad, Jelsa, and Vrboska offer a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The interior is perfect for hiking and agrotourism, and the south coast has serene, secluded coves. You can easily avoid the party scene.
Can I drink the tap water in Hvar?
Yes, the tap water is generally safe to drink in towns and villages. However, on some beaches or in very old buildings, you may encounter non-potable water from separate cisterns, which will be clearly marked 'Ne piti' (Not for drinking). When in doubt, ask or buy bottled water.
What currency is used in Hvar?
Croatia uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's still wise to carry some cash for small purchases at markets, beach bars, water taxis, and in smaller konobas.
When is the lavender in bloom on Hvar?
The lavender fields are typically in full, fragrant bloom from mid-June to mid-July. The exact timing depends on the spring weather. The harvest usually begins in early July. The best viewing areas are around the villages of Brusje, Velo Grablje, and Zarace.
Are the Pakleni Islands worth visiting?
Absolutely. They are a defining feature of the Hvar experience, offering the clearest water and most picturesque swimming spots close to Hvar Town. Even a short trip to Stipanska or Palmizana Bay is highly recommended for a beach day away from the mainland crowds.
What should I pack for a trip to Hvar?
Essentials include: sturdy sandals or shoes for cobblestones, swimwear, sunscreen (high SPF), a sun hat, a light cover-up for evenings, comfortable walking shoes for exploring, and a reusable water bottle. In spring/autumn, pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
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