One of Croatia’s most sought-after destinations, Hvar is renowned for attracting the rich and famous, something that’s obvious when you see its harbour in the summer, filled with mega yachts. They come for its beautiful beaches as well as its world-class dining and nightlife scene, but this sunny island has, even more, to offer for travellers of all types. Hvar Town has a historic centre with impressive landmarks like Spanjola Fortress which offers a panoramic view over the town, harbour, the sea, and nearby islands from the top. It’s also home to the oldest still active public theatre in Europe, which dates back over 400 years.
There are alluring towns and villages throughout the island along with lavender fields and vineyard-covered hills. Stari Grad on the northern side is a must for history buffs as Croatia’s oldest town, dating to 384 BC.
Many visitors to Hvar choose to stay in the central hub of Hvar Town which offers the most luxurious hotels and the widest array of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, along with idyllic beaches. Or immerse yourself in history with a stay in Stari Grad which also offers gorgeous sea views. Nearby Jelsa is a tourism centre with more centuries-old architecture and secluded coves for quiet contemplation. In the island’s centre, Zastrazisce village enjoys an especially tranquil setting with beautiful landscapes, ancient forts, and stone homes.
Beautiful Hvar Island boasts many delightful attractions, and also hidden gems. Croatia’s oldest town, Stari Grad, is of the island’s most scenic locations. The landscape surrounding the medieval town is studded with lush olive groves and vineyards. Take a walk along the winding streets to the town’s charming small square, and visit the Church of St Nicholas. The tiny town of Jelsa is also worth exploring, as it has gorgeous tranquil beaches and pine forests.
The ancient Old Town of Hvar is a hive of bustling activity all year round. Tourists flock to the historic centre to admire the elegant piazza, and to visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the gothic palaces. You can wander through the marble pedestrian-only streets, and soak up the atmosphere whilst enjoying lunch at a quaint pavement café. If you visit in the evening, you’ll witness how the nightlife magically transforms the charming Old Town.
Affectionately known as Spanjola, by the locals, Fortress Fortica is both a castle and a fort. Built in the 16th century, Fortica initially served as protection against invading armies. From its summit, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the neighbouring Pakleni islands. Located within the fortress walls you will find interesting historical exhibits and collections of medieval antiquities and ancient amphora. The fortress also has its own terrace café where you can enjoy refreshments.
As Croatia’s sunniest island, Hvar is the perfect place to discover paradise. Fragrant lavender grows in the fields that are dotted all over the island. During the month of June, the village of Velo Grablje hosts the annual Lavender Festival. For a real taste of Hvar, join a wine or olive oil tasting tour and sample the delicious specialities on offer. If your idea of paradise is something more serene, head for a secluded beach.
When spending time on Hvar, you can easily escape to the hidden beaches and lagoons of the neighbouring Pakleni Islands. The scenic islands are located directly in front of Hvar, in the crystalline waters of the Adriatic, and form a chain of wooded isles. Hop aboard a boat and sail away to a peaceful retreat. On a sun-kissed pebble beach, you can relax and top up your tan, or swim and snorkel in the sea.
Hvar is famous for its sunshine as one of the sunniest islands in Europe so if you want to escape the thick crowds of summer while still enjoying pleasant weather, consider a visit in May, June, September or the first half of October. Those who want to delve into the party life should come in July or August when things will really be hopping – of course, this also requires booking reservations well in advance. Another plus to this period is that the lavender fields will be in full bloom during July.
How many days do you need in Hvar?
The historic sites in Hvar Town can be covered in just a day but a minimum of three days is needed to explore the island properly. You’ll want a day to take advantage of the sailing opportunities with one of the top trips winding through the nearby Pakleni islands. An excursion to Brac Island to visit photogenic Zlatni Rat Beach for an unforgettable swim is possible too. Plus, there are wineries for touring and tasting, and many other towns and villages worth exploring like Jelsa and Stari Grad at the north end of the island.
When is the best time to see the lavender fields?
Typically, Hvar’s famous lavender fields will be in bloom in June and July. The lavender festival that celebrates this event takes place in late July. This is when you’ll not only witness the landscapes blanketed in purple, but you can purchase lavender-based products like essential oils, perfumes, scented pillows, and saps while learning more about how the plant is harvested.
What are the essential sites to see in Hvar?
There are multiple impressive historical sites in Hvar Town that are essential to see, including the 16th-century Spanish fortress that soars above Hvar Town, the Arsenal Theatre that opened its doors in 1612, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, built over the 16th and 17th centuries. Stari Grad Plain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was first colonised by the Greeks in the 4th century BC and you won’t want to miss Tvrdalj Castle in Stari Grad, a fortified villa that belonged to Croatian Renaissance poet Petar Hektorovic.
Is Hvar worth visiting?
With so much to see and do, Hvar is well worth visiting, in fact, you’ll probably find you want more time than you’ve allotted. While some people come on a day trip to explore Hvar Town’s historical sites, it really calls for at least one overnight and preferably several. You’ll have the chance to go well beyond the main hub, enjoy delights like sunbathing on the beautiful beaches, wine tasting, delving into the buzzing nightlife, and perhaps a leisurely bike ride.
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