Hvar Town blends Venetian stone, pine‑fringed bays, and yacht‑bright nights. Fortica crowns the skyline. The Pakleni Islands glitter offshore. Cafés spill onto St. Stephen’s Square. The mood is relaxed by day and electric after sunset.
At a glance
Best months: late May–June; September–early October
Best for: Sun seekers, couples, friends, and easy island day trips.
Scene: Medieval alleys, a wide harbor promenade, and beach clubs nearby.
Top highlights: Fortica (Španjola) fortress, St. Stephen’s Square and Cathedral, the Arsenal with Hvar Public Theatre, and the Pakleni Islands.
Need to know: Dress modestly off the beach. Respect quiet hours. The old town is car‑free. Bring cash for small boats and beach cafés.
Top things to do in Hvar Town
St. Stephen’s Square and Hvar Cathedral
This is the island’s living room. The square opens to the harbor and glows in late light. Step inside Hvar Cathedral for art, silence, and a cool pause. Return at night when stone reflects warm café light.
The Arsenal and Hvar Public Theatre (1612)
Climb to the theatre above the Arsenal. It is often cited as Europe’s first municipal public theatre. The hall is intimate and atmospheric. Displays explain the town’s maritime past.
Fortica (Španjola) fortress and town walls
Walk up through alleys and pine shade. The fortress dates to the 16th century. Views sweep across the harbor and Pakleni Islands. Go for golden hour. Bring water and good shoes.
Franciscan Monastery and the waterfront
Stroll the Riva to the monastery. A quiet cloister sits a few steps from the sea. The small museum adds context to island life. It is an easy stop on a harbor loop.
Bonj and the west‑side promenade
Follow the coastal path west. You will pass stone sunbathing platforms and grand old villas. The sea is clear and tempting. Sunset here feels made for a slow walk.
Pakleni Islands: easy boat escapes
The Pakleni Islands sit across the channel. Boats leave all day in summer. The ride is short and scenic.
Jerolim: A natural feel with pebbly coves. Ideal for a lazy swim and simple lunches.
Marinkovac (Stipanska): Known for Carpe Diem Beach. Expect music, daybeds, and a party buzz.
Palmižana (Sveti Klement): Shallow bays, boardwalks, and artful gardens. A good pick for families and long lunches.
Look for taxi boats on the Riva. Services run frequently in high season, with simple boards showing destinations and prices; exact times vary by operator and weather. Take sandals for rocky entries. Pack sun protection and a light cover‑up.
Suggested 2‑day plan
Day 1
Morning: Walk to Fortica for views.
Late morning: Coffee on St. Stephen’s Square; visit the Cathedral and the Arsenal.
Afternoon: Swim at Bonj or Pokonji Dol.
Evening: Sunset drinks and a courtyard dinner.
Day 2
Morning: Taxi boat to the Pakleni Islands (Jerolim for quiet; Palmižana for a long lunch).
Afternoon: More swims or a coastal walk.
Evening: Back to town; choose a mellow bar or boat to Carpe Diem Beach.
Beaches near Hvar Town
Pokonji Dol: Curving pebble bay east of town with seasonal spots. Easy walk.
Mekićevica: A quieter cove past Pokonji Dol. Bring water shoes.
Bonj ‘Bene’: Stone terraces and easy dips near the west promenade.
Dubovica: Iconic cove 8–10 km east by road; park above and walk down. Go early in peak months.
Nightlife: sunset to late
Hvar Town hums after dark.
Hula Hula Hvar: Sunset sets and sea views west of town.
Carpe Diem Hvar / Carpe Diem Beach (Stipanska): Bar on the Riva with late‑night island club. Shuttle boats in season.
Old‑town bars: Small lanes, cocktails, and local wine.
Respect dress rules and quiet streets, especially in narrow alleys.
Where to stay in Hvar
Stay within Hvar Town for easy walks to the square, harbor, and boats.
Old Town & the Riva: Steps from St. Stephen’s Square, the Cathedral, and bars. Historic charm and lively summer nights. Rooms can be compact; expect some stairs.
West Side (Bonj / Amfora): Resort feel with stone terraces, calm water, and sunset strolls. Easy swims and beach clubs. A pleasant waterfront walk to the center.
Above the Old Town (hillside streets): Quieter lanes and wide views. Good for longer stays and couples. Stairs are part of the deal.
Križna Luka & Pokonji Dol (east bays): Beach mood with cafés in season. Calmer evenings than the Riva. Straightforward walks or short rides to the square.
Booking tips
Reserve early for late June–August.
Ask about parking if you plan to drive; lots sit at the edge of the center.
For quiet nights, avoid rooms right on the Riva and near late‑night bars.
Quick picks by traveler type
Families: West Side or Križna Luka/Pokonji Dol for easy swims.
Couples: Hillside streets for views; Old Town for charm.
Nightlife fans: Old Town/Riva for bars and late ferries.
Top Rated Hotels in Hvar
1) 🔍Palace Elisabeth Hvar Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World
Review score: 9.2 (Wonderful) — 153 reviews
Located directly on St. Stephen’s Square, next to Hvar Cathedral and the Arsenal, this historic landmark blends 19th-century grandeur with modern luxury. It offers elegant rooms, a spa, and an indoor pool — ideal for couples and luxury travelers.
Neighborhood: Main square (Pjaca), Hvar Cathedral
Key facilities: Indoor pool, spa, restaurant, bar, exceptional breakfast, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: Hvar’s most iconic hotel with timeless style and sweeping bay views.
2) 🔍Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel
Review score: 9.4 (Wonderful) — 458 reviews
A contemporary waterfront hotel overlooking Hvar Harbor, featuring a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a Sensorí spa, and a glass-roof indoor pool. Perfect for couples seeking a modern, indulgent escape.
Neighborhood: Obala Fabrika waterfront, Hvar Harbor
Key facilities: Indoor pool, spa, three restaurants, bar, exceptional breakfast, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: Stylish rooftop lounge and harbor views create a quintessential Hvar experience.
3) 🔍Hotel Moeesy, Blue & Green Oasis – Adults Only
Review score: 9.7 (Exceptional) — 407 reviews
A serene adults-only boutique surrounded by gardens along the seafront, featuring infinity and indoor pools, a spa, and fitness facilities. Ideal for honeymooners or couples looking for peace and high-end comfort close to the Old Town.
Neighborhood: Seafront promenade, near Hvar Old Town
Key facilities: Three pools, spa, restaurant, bar, free parking, exceptional breakfast, free Wi-Fi, beachfront
Why it stands out: Tranquil, design-forward retreat with resort-level luxury for adults only.
4) 🔍Riva Marina Hvar Hotel
Review score: 9.2 (Wonderful) — 314 reviews
Set right on the Riva promenade opposite the yacht harbor, this boutique hotel combines contemporary interiors with lively social energy. A top choice for those wanting to be in the heart of Hvar’s nightlife and dining scene.
Neighborhood: Riva promenade, Hvar Harbor
Key facilities: Two restaurants, bar, fitness, free Wi-Fi, exceptional breakfast
Why it stands out: The best location for people-watching and enjoying Hvar’s harbor buzz.
5) 🔍Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort
Review score: 8.4 (Very good) — 2,141 reviews
A large resort nestled in a bay just a short walk from the town center, offering a multi-level pool complex, beach access, and family-friendly amenities. Great for groups and families seeking space and facilities near town.
Neighborhood: Amfora Bay, walking distance to Old Town
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, five restaurants, bar, free parking, excellent breakfast, family rooms, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: Hvar’s premier resort for relaxation and recreation close to the historic center.
Top Rated Villas in Hvar
1) 🔍Villa Oceanus
Review score: 10.0 (5 reviews)
A secluded, ultra-luxury beachfront villa in Uljeni Bok cove just outside Hvar Town, featuring modern design, panoramic sea views, and direct access to a private jetty. Ideal for families or groups seeking privacy and sea access.
Neighborhood: Uljeni Bok cove, near Fortica Fortress
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, private beach area, free parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace, family rooms
Why it stands out: One of the few villas on Hvar with its own private beach and boat jetty.
2) 🔍Villa Sunce
Review score: 9.7 (26 reviews)
A charming three-bedroom villa in Hvar’s Old Town with a panoramic rooftop terrace overlooking the harbor. It combines traditional stone details with modern comfort, perfect for couples or small families.
Neighborhood: Old Town, near St. Stephen’s Square and Franciscan Monastery Beach
Key facilities: Free parking, Wi-Fi, terrace, family rooms, non-smoking
Why it stands out: Central location and rooftop terrace with some of the best views in town.
3) 🔍Heraclea House
Review score: 10.0 (6 reviews)
A beautifully restored stone villa in Hvar’s old quarter, offering a private pool, jacuzzi, and sauna. Elegant interiors and a wellness-focused layout make it ideal for couples or small groups.
Neighborhood: Old Town, near Franciscan Monastery Beach
Key facilities: Private pool, hot tub, sauna, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: A rare villa in Hvar’s historic center with its own pool and spa.
4) 🔍Vila Božić Hvar
Review score: 9.7 (8 reviews)
A bright, Mediterranean-style villa with a private pool and spacious terraces surrounded by greenery. Located in a quiet neighborhood, it’s perfect for families and groups who want both comfort and easy access to the beach.
Neighborhood: Podstine/Majerovica area, near Hula Hula Beach
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace
Why it stands out: Peaceful setting with sea views and an excellent outdoor space.
5) 🔍4-Bedroom Villa Hvar (100 m from the sea, 1.5 km from Old Town)
Review score: 8.9 (13 reviews)
A spacious four-bedroom property with a private infinity pool and multiple terraces overlooking the sea. Ideal for families or larger groups wanting comfort close to both the beach and the town center.
Neighborhood: Križna Luka area, near the coastline
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace, pet-friendly
Why it stands out: Offers great value for a large private villa near the sea and Old Town.
Top Rated Apartments in Hvar
1) 🔍Blue Bay Residence
Review score: 9.9 (101 reviews)
Modern sea-view apartments set above the water on Hvar’s west promenade, about a 15–20 minute walk from the main square. Elegant interiors, large terraces, and direct beach access make it ideal for couples seeking quiet luxury near the sea.
Neighborhood: West Hvar, near President Beach and Hula Hula Beach Bar
Key facilities: Beachfront, free parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace, air conditioning
Why it stands out: Offers rare sea views and free parking just steps from the beach.
2) 🔍Apartments Marina
Review score: 9.9 (155 reviews)
Stylish and spotless apartments in a peaceful neighborhood, within walking distance of beaches and Hvar’s center. Each unit features a balcony, full kitchen, and sea views — best for couples or small families.
Neighborhood: Residential area near St. Stephen’s Square
Key facilities: Free parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchen, balcony, air conditioning, family rooms
Why it stands out: Consistently perfect ratings for cleanliness, comfort, and host hospitality.
3) 🔍Hvar Villa Malisko Apartments
Review score: 9.8 (106 reviews)
Bright, beachside apartments only a short walk from Bonj and Hula Hula beaches. Each unit includes a terrace with sea views and a fully equipped kitchen — ideal for beach lovers and families.
Neighborhood: Bonj area, near Hvar Harbor
Key facilities: Beachfront, free parking, free Wi-Fi, balcony or terrace, air conditioning
Why it stands out: Exceptional beachfront setting with easy access to the town center.
4) 🔍Apartments Old Town Hvar Sea View
Review score: 9.8 (104 reviews)
Modern apartments perched above Hvar’s Old Town, offering panoramic harbor views and quick access to the main square. Perfect for couples who want scenic views and a central location.
Neighborhood: Old Town, near St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Fortica Fortress
Key facilities: Free parking, free Wi-Fi, balcony or terrace, air conditioning, breakfast available
Why it stands out: Combines Old Town charm, sea views, and the rare convenience of on-site parking.
5) 🔍Apartment Lilly with Amazing City View
Review score: 9.6 (259 reviews)
A charming apartment in the heart of Hvar Town, featuring a full kitchen, washing machine, and sweeping views over the harbor. Best suited for couples or friends wanting a walkable base with all comforts.
Neighborhood: Central Hvar, near the Theatre and Arsenal
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, kitchen with dishwasher, washing machine, air conditioning
Why it stands out: Exceptional location with postcard views and a cozy, home-like feel.
Food and wine on Island Hvar
Dishes: Grilled fish, octopus salad, black risotto, simple pastas.
Wines: Bogdanuša (fresh white) and Plavac Mali (structured red). You may see Prč and Maraština.
Tips: Book tastings ahead in high season; keep lunches light before boats.
How to get to Hvar Town
Split → Hvar Town (foot passengers): Seasonal fast catamarans sail direct. Buy early in July–August.
Split → Stari Grad (cars): Year‑round car ferries, about 120 minutes. Drive or bus to Hvar Town after docking.
Drvenik → Sućuraj (cars): Short, frequent sailings, about 30 minutes. Scenic, slower road across the island.
Check timetables close to travel; weather can shift sailings.
Getting around
The historic core is pedestrian; permits are required for vehicles. Walk most places. Taxi‑boats reach the Pakleni. Buses link Hvar, Stari Grad, Jelsa, and Vrboska. Parking sits at the edge of the center.
Best time to visit Hvar
Late May–June and September–early October are ideal: warm seas, full services, softer crowds.
July–August is peak: hottest, busiest, priciest—book boats and dinners early.
Winter–spring is calm with shorter hours; hiking, wine, and culture shine.
Hvar is among Croatia’s sunniest places, with bright, dry summers.
Responsible travel tips
Use refillable bottles. Tap water is safe to drink. Leave stones and sea life as you find them. Keep music down on boats and beaches. Support local producers and family‑run konobas.
FAQs
Is Hvar Town good without a car?
Yes. You can walk most places. Boats and buses fill the gaps.
Can I swim from town, and are there sandy beaches?
Yes. Platforms and small coves sit in both directions from the center. Most beaches are pebbly or rocky, and the water is very clear. Water shoes help.
Is tap water safe?
Yes. Tap water is safe to drink. Bring a refillable bottle.
What wine should I try on Island Hvar?
Start with Bogdanuša for a fresh white. Try Plavac Mali for a bold red.
How long is the boat from Split?
Fast catamarans to Hvar Town usually take under one hour. The Split–Stari Grad car ferry takes about two hours.
Where is the best sunset spot?
Try the west promenade and Hula Hula. Fortica also gives wide evening views.
What about dress and noise rules?
Cover up off the beach. Keep voices down in alleys. Fines apply for beachwear in town and loud late noise.
Final tips for Hvar
Travel light. Book popular spots in peak months. Start swims early and rest at midday. Keep a jumper for breezy nights. Save this guide for quick planning.
Ready to plan your days in Hvar? Map your beach time, pick one Pakleni island, and choose a dinner under the stars. Book ferries and rooms early for July and August. Then relax. The island will do the rest.
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