Sun-drenched Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, known for its lavender fields and Renaissance architecture. Popular with tourists for its beaches and clear waters.
Hvar, an island in the Adriatic Sea off Croatia's Dalmatian coast, captivates visitors with its Mediterranean charm. In Hvar Town, you can explore a 13th-century wall, climb to a hilltop fortress, or admire the Renaissance-era cathedral in the main square. The island's interior reveals lavender fields and ancient olive groves, while its coastline boasts calm beaches. Visit Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or sail around the nearby Pakleni Islands for a taste of Hvar's diverse landscapes.
Exploring Hvar Town
Hvar Town is the island's main hub. Walk through marble streets to St. Stephen's Square, the largest piazza in Dalmatia. The square stretches from the harbor to St. Stephen's Cathedral, a 16th-century building with a distinctive bell tower. For a sweeping view of the town and surrounding islands, climb up to Fortica, the Spanish fortress on a hill above Hvar Town. This 16th-century fortress played a key role in protecting the town from Turkish invasions.
Stari Grad
Stari Grad, founded in 384 BC, is the oldest town on the island and one of the oldest in Europe. The town sits at the end of a deep bay and maintains much of its original character. Wander through narrow stone streets lined with traditional konobas (taverns) and artisan shops. Explore Tvrdalj, the fortified summer residence of Croatian poet Petar Hektorović. This Renaissance building includes a fish pond, dovecote, and a tower with an inscription that reads "Forse che si forse che no" (Maybe yes, maybe no).
Beaches and Natural Beauty
Hvar's coastline has many pebbly beaches and quiet coves. Dubovica Beach, about 8 km east of Hvar Town, is a crescent of white pebbles surrounded by pine-covered hills. The clear, turquoise water makes it great for swimming and snorkeling. For a more relaxed experience, take a boat to the Pakleni Islands. This small archipelago off the southwest coast of Hvar has numerous beaches and lagoons. Palmižana, the most popular of these islands, has several restaurants and a botanical garden with exotic plants.
Wine and Dine
Hvar's warm climate and fertile soil produce quality wine grapes, particularly Plavac Mali, a red variety. Visit local wineries to taste wines and learn about the island's 2,400-year-old winemaking tradition. Many restaurants in Hvar Town and other villages serve fresh seafood caught daily. Try gregada, a local fish stew cooked with potatoes, white wine, and olive oil. For dessert, taste paprenjak, a traditional Croatian cookie flavored with honey and black pepper.
Getting There and Around
Reach Hvar by ferry from Split on the mainland. Catamarans run frequently during summer, taking about an hour to reach Hvar Town. On the island, local buses connect the main towns. Renting a car or scooter allows you to explore the island's interior and less accessible beaches. Taxis and water taxis are also available for shorter trips.
When to Visit
July and August are the busiest and most expensive months, with warm weather suitable for beach activities. However, expect large crowds during this time. May, June, September, and early October offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists. If you want to see the lavender harvest, plan your visit for late June or early July when the fields are in full bloom.
