Founded by Greeks in the 4th century BC, this coastal town on Hvar island has Venetian buildings, a Dominican Monastery, and clear Adriatic waters ideal for swimming.
Stari Grad stretches along a deep bay on Croatia's Hvar Island and dates back to 384 BC. Walk through white stone streets to see the Renaissance-era Tvrdalj Palace with its fish pond, stop at St. Stephen's Square for coffee, or explore the 2,400-year-old Greek agricultural system in the surrounding plains. The town's position at the end of a calm bay makes it ideal for swimming and sailing during summer months.
Getting to Stari Grad
Take the ferry from Split to reach Stari Grad - the journey takes 2 hours and costs €6-20 depending on the season. Seven daily departures operate during summer months (June-September). The ferry terminal is a 15-minute walk from the town center.
Walking the Old Town
The streets of Stari Grad follow the original 384 BC layout, with white limestone buildings and marble-paved pathways. Start your walk at the waterfront promenade (Riva) and explore inland through the network of streets. You'll come across small squares like Škor and Tvrdalj, each with cafes where locals gather for morning coffee.
Exploring Stari Grad Plain
The agricultural plain east of town maintains the same stone wall divisions created by ancient Greeks 2,400 years ago. Cycle through paths between vineyards and olive groves - rent bikes from shops near the Riva for €15 per day. Visit family-run wineries like Hora, where €20 gets you a tasting of 5 wines paired with local cheese and prosciutto.
Swimming and Beaches
The northern coast of Stari Grad Bay has several swimming areas with rocky shores. Maslinica Beach, 2.5 km from town, has the area's only sandy beach. Tiha Bay, with its deep waters and minimal boat traffic, is good for swimming. Beach chairs rent for €5-10 per day at most locations.
Tvrdalj Palace and Museums
Visit the 16th-century Tvrdalj Palace, built by poet Petar Hektorović. The palace includes a Renaissance garden, stone fish pond, and walls carved with Latin and Croatian inscriptions (entrance €5). The Stari Grad Museum displays Roman amphorae, Greek pottery, and medieval artifacts found in the bay and surrounding area (entrance €3).
Food and Restaurants
Antika restaurant serves fresh fish caught by local fishermen and lamb from neighboring islands. The stone interior stays cool even during summer. At Konoba Batana, eat traditional Dalmatian dishes like pašticada (braised beef) and gregada (fish stew) in a converted wine cellar. Main courses range from €15-25.
Best Time to Visit
Visit between May and early July or mid-September to October when temperatures stay between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Summer brings temperatures up to 30°C (86°F) and larger crowds. Most restaurants and accommodations close from November to March, when many locals move to Split for winter.
