Hvar is one of the most popular islands in the Mediterranean. It's popular both for crazy partying and calm family getaways.
Regardless of why you're visiting, we will help you get around and find the answers to the most popular questions about Hvar Island. So, let's get started!
1. Why You Should Choose Hvar
The island of Hvar is the king of Dalmatian islands. It's always been known for its important strategic and nautical position, rich history, culture, literature, and numerous natural beauties.
Hvar has a mild climate, warm winters, and pleasant summers. The luxurious Mediterranean nature, rich tradition, and nightlife attract many tourists.
Hvar Town, Waterfront
According to many, Hvar is one of the most beautiful islands in Europe. The lavender fields, ancient olive groves, and vineyards stretch across the island, creating perfect harmony between nature and man.
What's more, Hvar is a perfect luxury destination on the Adriatic. There's a variety of luxury villas with a pool, situated in hidden turquoise bays or on quiet hills near towns.
2. What Is So Special About Hvar Island
Sveta Nedilja, Hvar
Whatever your dream vacation may look like, you can be sure that everything can be found precisely on Hvar Island:
- nightlife and cultural attractions of the town of Hvar,
- boat trips to the Pakleni Islands,
- sandy beaches near the town of Jelsa,
- the ancient and the modern parts of the town of Stari Grad,
- heavenly beaches under pine trees in Zavala,
- the exotic atmosphere of the south cliffs in Ivan Dolac, Sveta Nedjelja, and Milna,
- "The Little Venice" atmosphere in Vrboska,
- the endless lavender fields near Gdinj, Zastrazisce, and Bogomolje,
- many quiet and hidden coves around Sucuraj.
And this is only a glimpse of the experience that waits for you!
3. What You Can See in Hvar Old Town
The town proudly exhibits the Fortress Fortica (Spanjola), Hvar's Cathedral, and the Franciscan Monastery.
View of the Hvar Town from Fortica
The oldest public theater in Europe is built precisely in this city. Notable domestic and foreign architects constructed it.
However, Hvar is not only about the monuments. There are also the Port of Hvar and the stunning Pakleni Islands, in front of Hvar Bay.
4. Why You Should Visit the Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are undoubtedly the most beautiful part of Hvar, and perhaps of the entire Croatian Riviera. Woody islands, immersed in the clear, azure sea, beaches, resorts, and countless hidden coves, stone terraces facing the sun and the beautiful secluded lagoons present "Arcadia in the palm of the hand".
Sailing destination in Croatia - Pakleni islands archipelago in front of Hvar town
There are beautiful bays and small islands Jerolim, Stipanska, Zdrilca, Palmizana, Vlaka, Mlini, and others.
View of Pakleni islands from the Fortress view
While we have your attention, check out our other blog to learn Why You Really Need to Visit the Croatian Islands.
Be prepared to experience surreal beauty!
5. Why You Should Visit Stari Grad on Hvar Island
Stari Grad is the oldest town in Croatia, a contemporary of Aristotle.
The Greeks from the island of Paros founded this town and called it "Pharos". The historical heart of the island, ancient Pharos (Stari Grad), is built in a place where the deep bay blends into the fertile field, with cultivated vineyards and olive groves since ancient times.
Due to its location, it was seafarers' favorite destination for centuries. Today it is a haven for boaters, who always visit its old bay while sailing across the Adriatic.
Stari Grad Hvar and the Angler Sculpture
Stari Grad is the ideal starting point for long walks and trips along the sunniest and most fragrant of the Croatian islands. Comfortable accommodations, numerous taverns, and restaurants with domestic food and traditional good wine will provide you with a vacation you will never forget.
6. What Else Should You Experience on Hvar Island
In the central part of the island of Hvar lies the town of Jelsa.
Jelsa town on Hvar Island
The area of Jelsa has a concaved coastline, with numerous bays, where you can find perfect privacy and peace. These coves are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Sand, gravel, or pebble beaches, situated by the pine trees provide perfect relaxation during hot summer days.
7. What is there to do on Hvar island
The untouched coves near the towns can be visited by car, bicycle, or walking through the Mediterranean landscapes.
Bonj Les Bains Beach in front of the Amfora Hotel in Hvar, Croatia
These bays are perfect for swimming and relaxing where you will also find a restaurant or a cafe for refreshment. Turquoise bay in Jelsa town, Hvar
For those who prefer an active holiday and an adrenaline rush, Hvar also offers a variety of sporting activities: a tandem skydive, scuba diving, surfing, and other water sports, tennis, cycling, trekking, free climbing, and many other sports.
8. Where to Eat and Drink on Hvar Island
The nightlife in Hvar attracts many young people from all around the world.
A typical day involves sleeping in and then going for a drink coffee on the sunny terrace of a local bar, overlooking the waterfront or piazza.
Clubs, Bars, and Beach Bars in Hvar
Some of the most popular clubs and beach bars in Hvar are:
Lounge Bar Laganini, Palmizana, Hvar
Hvar Luxury Restaurants
At lunchtime, you can visit one of the many excellent restaurants on Hvar.
A delicious meal in Rozeta Sushi Bar on Hvar Island
They always offer the catch of the day, local olive oil, vegetables, and high-quality domestic wine. It is also a great idea to take a boat tour across the bay of the Pakleni Islands, where you can enjoy the clean sea and sun until the evening hours.
Here are some top recommendations:
Traditional Croatian Meal – Octopus Peka (octopus under the bell)
Are you ready to visit Hvar Island? Read our other blog Luxury Vacation in Hvar town on Hvar Island and learn even more useful info about the "King of Dalmatian Islands".