The Traveler's Guide
Top 10 Things to Do on Hvar Island
One of Croatia’s most popular islands, Hvar has something for every kind of traveler. Are you ready to discover its many facets? In no particular order, here are 10 of the best things to do on the beautiful island of Hvar:
Table of Contents
1. Take in gorgeous views of Hvar Town from the Španjola Fortress
Perched high on a hill above the Old Town, the island’s imposing landmark delivers unforgettable vistas over Hvar’s red-tiled rooftops and the Pakleni archipelago in the distance. Well worth the hike!
2. Understand Hvar’s fascinating history at the Franciscan monastery
In the monastery, you’ll find an abundant collection of Greek, Roman, and Venetian coins, amphorae, lace, as well as a rare Atlas by Ptolemy, printed in 1524. Take a moment to admire the magnificent painting of the Last Supper in the dining hall.
3. Explore Stari Grad
Nestled on the island’s north coast, the ancient town’s tranquil cobblestone streets are perfect for leisurely strolls with their picturesque squares, historic churches, and bougainvillea growing around every corner. Take a bike ride to Stari Grad Plain to see the best preserved ancient Greek landscape in the Mediterranean.
4. Zip around Hvar in a rental car
Up for an adventure? Hire a car or scooter and ride through lavender fields, stop for ice-cream in Jelsa (why not try a delicious lavender flavor?), head to the small village of Ivan Dolac through the infamous Pitve Tunnel for a swim in crystal-clear waters, and end the day watching the sunset from Tvrdava Fortica, the Napoleonic fortress — did you get all that?
5. Find a little slice of beach heaven
If you’re dreaming of hidden coves and small secluded beaches, make your way to the island’s southern coast. You’re bound to stumble upon amazing gems, such as Malo Zaraće, Dubovica or Sveta Nedjelja.
6. Sail the Pakleni Islands
From Hvar Town, hire a small boat and set sail to the gorgeous Pakleni Islands to explore countless secluded beaches and deserted lagoons (Jerolim is a favorite with naturists). Once you’ve found the perfect spot, drop your anchor and jump off into the translucent Adriatic waters!
7. Feast on gregada
Featuring on just about every restaurant menu on the island, this traditional fish stew from Hvar cooked with sliced potatoes and onions has all the flavors and aromas of the Adriatic. A must-eat dish when in Hvar!
8. Sample Hvar’s best wines
With a winemaking tradition dating back to ancient times, it’d be sacrilege to visit Hvar without indulging in a little wine tasting. Travel to Jelsa and Vrboska to visit some of the most famous Croatian wineries and try the Tomić and Carič wines.
9. Party the night away (or not)
A hotspot for the jet-set and young party-goers, Hvar town has earned a well-worn reputation for its wild nightlife over the years. If an all-nighter at Carpe Diem or Hula Hula is not your thing, enjoy a more laid-back evening out at Falko Bar.
10. Embrace Hvar’s fjaka state of mind
Experiencing an overwhelming sense of languor and inertness under the strong Dalmatian sun? Nothing to worry about: You’re just in a state of fjaka. Just surrender and ‘pomalo’ (‘take it easy’).
Traveling to Hvar island soon? Don’t forget to check out the official tourist board website for some more great travel ideas! Next, read up on these Top 10 Things to Do in Mljet and our Top 10 Thing to Do in Korčula!
