Last updated on August 31st, 2025 at 08:27 pm
Stari Grad Hvar is a hidden gem on Hvar Island and a trip to this region wouldn’t be complete without exploring this quaint town boasting cobblestone squares, a charming waterfront and history!
Hvar town may steal all the glitz and glamour, but Stari Grad on the quieter northern side of the island offers an authentic side of Hvar with narrow lanes to get lost in, weathered churches, bougainvillaea-covered balconies and a picturesque promenade to stroll!
Further afield, the Stari Grad Plain is a UNESCO area made up of serene vineyards and lavender fields, an area to explore and taste fabulous local wine and delicacies, essential if you’re staying a little longer than a day trip!
So if you find yourself in Stari Grad for a few days or have opted for a tranquil afternoon’s escape from bustling Hvar Town, here’s my curated guide to the best things to do in Stari Grad Hvar!
Why visit Stari Grad Hvar?
Stari Grad Hvar is the oldest town in Croatia, just walking around for a few minutes and you’ll notice a relaxed vibe, characterful buildings and quiet cultural charm without any of the usual bustle or selfie sticks!
It’s a nice contrast from vibrant Hvar Town and trendy bars, and while I love the vibe there, it’s great to visit both places and see a more laid-back, authentic side of the island!
Short On Time?
Here’s my to recommendations for where to stay and what to do in Stari Grad Hvar!
Top Stari Grad Hotels
- Maslina Resort – new, beautiful, stylish resort
- Places Hvar Hotel – boho chic hotel in Stari Grad
- Town House Rosario – authentic boutique stay
Best Experience
- Cycle Stari Grad Hvar – scenic cultural UNESCO & wine tour!
- Boat Trip To South Hvar Beaches – explore beautiful beaches of Hvar!
- Wine Tasting Tour – discover Hvar’s wine scene!
WHERE TO STAY IN STARI GRAD HVAR
Stari Grad is a lovely spot to stay for a couple of nights while exploring the tranquil and cultural side of Hvar and the nearby attractions like the UNESCO Stari Grad Plain, lavender fields and the vineyards.
It offers relaxation for couples and slow travellers – there are a few quality Stari Grad hotels and boutiques to choose from, here’s my top picks for Stari Grad Hvar!
Stari Grad Hotels
Maslina Resort
Maslina Resort is a beautiful luxury resort in Stari Grad with an emphasis on wellness, relaxation and sustainability for a tranquil stay. Guests can enjoy top facilities, including a spa, two pools and a lovely lounge deck!
Places Hotel Stari Grad
Places Hvar Hotel is a modern and boho vibe resort in Stari Grad, set on a private beach with sun loungers and a sea-facing pool. Features include tennis courts, a bar, a terrace, and a popular restaurant. Guests can catch the water taxi – five minutes to the centre of Stari Grad!
Town House Rosario
Town House Rosario, a traditional stone house boutique in the heart of Stari Grad Hvar with 5 lovely rooms to choose from and stone wall features, modern facilities and charm! This is where I stopped for one night and had a great experience; it’s super central in the atmospheric old town.
House Heritage
Heritage House is perfect if you’re looking for more space. This two-bedroom traditional stone house in the heart of the old town boasts modern amenities and a roof terrace, making it super convenient.
For more accommodation tips, read; Where To Stay In Hvar Island: Best Areas, Hotels & Boutiques!
THINGS TO DO IN STARI GRAD HVAR
STROLL STARI GRAD WATERFRONT
One of the best things about Croatia’s coastlines are the palm-tree-lined promenades; sprinkled with terraces and a great atmosphere and Stari Grad bay is just wonderful!
Stari Grad’s waterfront is a nice place to stroll, you’ll be met with pastel-coloured Venetian Renaissance buildings with inviting terraces and on the other side, small bobbing fishermen’s boats, ice cream stands and stalls, it’s very appealing to all senses!
I like to head here in the mornings for a coffee at Melting Pot and in the early evenings before sunset, there are a few lovely spots to grab a drink, such as Lempedusa Bar and soak up the serene ambience. It’s one of the best things to do in Stari Grad!
WANDER STARI GRAD OLD TOWN
Stari Grad’s old town is the oldest town in Croatia and the main attraction here, it’s the reason why most people want to visit Stari Grad, including myself, I love walking around the cobbled lanes and squares, it feels so romantic!
Wandering is really the best way to explore the nooks and crannies of the lanes, you will come across small boutique shops, the Stari Grad Museum, art exhibitions, churches, restaurants and lots of huge flower pots – I recommend a mid-day wander, you will likely have it all to yourself!
Don’t miss!
Skor Square: A picture-perfect square with ancient stone houses
St Stephens Church: A charming church dating 1607, the interior will surprise you!
Srinjo Kola: The oldest street on Hvar Island & Za Pod Zub deli!
EXPLORE STARI GRAD UNESCO PLAIN
Stari Grad plain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to Ancient Greeks times, its quite a work of art and today you can clearly see the stone walls that separate the plots of lavender fields, olive groves and even fig trees.
The Stari Grad Plain is a unique landscape, and the nicest way to explore it is by cycling and stopping to take in the scenes and the lavender-scented air!
You can rent bikes from Hvar Life in Stari Grad Town, but I recommend this cycling tour if you’re coming from Hvar Town, which takes you on a guided journey through the Stari Grad Plain, including the smaller villages and hidden gems!
Book: Visit the Stari Grad Plain with two wheels on this cycling tour!
WINE TASTING IN STARI GRAD HVAR
You have to try the local wine and olive oil in one of Croatia’s best wine-producing islands, it’s a whole cultural experience, trust me! Hvar’s history in wine making dates back to the ancient Greeks, so if like me you enjoy a good vino, then Stari Grad Croatia is your place! Here are some of the best local vineyards to arrange a visit to!
Hora Hvar Farm
Hora Farm and Restaurant is set among UNESCO Stari Grad Plain, it is the best spot to try local wine paired with a farm-to-table experience. The setting is amazing, against the backdrop of vineyards and olive groves, we loved our leisurely afternoon at Hora and cycling around the vineyards!
Lacman Winery
Lacman is a local, family-run winery specialising in organic wine situated in the village of Selca. They offer wine tastings on the scenic terrace overlooking the beautiful landscapes of Hvar. It’s a lovely, tranquil spot to spend an afternoon!
Braca Plancic Winery
Located in the tiny village of Vrbanj, Braca Plancic Winery offers a selection of wines for you to try, along with fresh homemade bread, cheese, and olive oil. This is one of the largest wine producers in Hvar, their rosé is amazing!
Book: If you want a guided tour around the vineyards, book this highly rated top wine and olive oil experience!
VISIT HISTORIC TVRDALJ PALACE
Explore the former century’s-old summer house and attractive gardens of Croatian poet Petar Hektorovic, otherwise known as Tvrdalj Palace. You can easily skip through the historical house and head straight for the main event – the secret garden full of blooming flowers and native plants.
Discover grape vines, terraces centered round a pond, ancient walls and an abundance of greenery as you walk around it. Tvrdalj Palace may not very well known, but it’s well worth a visit when in Stari Grad Hvar, especially during the vibrant summer months.
RELAX ON STARI GRAD BEACHES
Stari Grad is best known for its cultural charm and history, but if you want to relax, there are also natural, clear water pebbly beach coves to swim and sunbathe! Some of the best beaches on Hvar Island are really only accessible by boat, but here are the best beaches near Stari Grad town!
Oslic Beach
Oslic Beach is the closest to the town of Stari Grad and similar to many beaches in Croatia, it is mostly rocks, concrete and a small stretch of ‘sand’ – it gets busy as the day goes on, so I recommend arriving early to claim your spot, while it’s not the best beach in Stari Grad, you can swim and relax here!
Maslinica Beach
Nearby the Village of Vbroska, Maslinica Bay is a great little spot for nature and walking along the beach trails, until you find your perfect place! Backed by pine trees with shallow waters and smooth stone slabs to throw your towel, a good spot for a swim without the crowds!
Brizenica Bay
Brizenica Bay is located in the North or Stari Grad, it offers natural beach bays with white stone beaches, clear waters for swimming and a relaxing atmosphere. In my opinion, it’s the best Stari Grad beach!
Tip! If you wanted to spend a day beach hopping with beautiful scenery and swimming in serene beach coves, what I recommend is a boat trip instead – this trip was the best thing we did on Hvar Island!
Read my complete guide to the best Beaches on Hvar Island Croatia!
CYCLING STARI GRAD PLAIN
Hvar has a long history in winemaking due to its incredible Mediterranean climate and tasting the local wine straight from the vineyards is one of my favourite things to do in Stari Grad. We loved this wine tasting cycling tour that takes you through the patchwork of vine and lavender fields of UNESCO Stari Grad Plain with picturesque views – sampling wine as you go!
You also get to see the charming smaller villages of Vbroska and Jelsa, as well as cycling through Hvar Island’s lush interior to Hvar town. It’s a great little tour, I highly recommend booking at least a week in advance to secure a spot!
Book: Cycle Stari Grad Plain & Wine Tour!
ENJOY GLAVICA HILL SUNSETS
Glavica Hill sits behind the old town and it’s the best spot in Stari Grad Hvar to watch the sunset with a stunning view over the rooftops, bay and vineyards in the distance!
The short hike from the town only takes twenty minutes along an unmarked path, which is rarely busy, however, you may meet a few more people just before sunset; I can’t think of a better way to end the day!
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK STARI GRAD HVAR
ZA POD ZUB
Za Pod Sub is a cute Croatian deli in the middle of the oldest street in Stari Grad Croatia. If you’re lucky enough to come across it, you will be in for a treat! It’s packed with everything from olives, cheese and truffles, to honey – and they also serve some of the best traditional lavender ice cream on Hvar Island, I can personally vouch for this!
ANTIKA
Antika is one of the oldest and best restaurants in Stari Grad with an unbeatable ambience in the heart of the old town. It’s set along a charming corner with tables and chairs scattered across two cobbled lanes – and serves tasty Mediterranean cuisine. My favourites are the fresh pasta, (well-presented) sharing boards, and homemade focaccia; you can’t go wrong with this selection!
MELTING POT
If you’re in need of a coffee fix, I recommend Melting Pot right on the harbour front at any time, but especially mid-morning, as they do excellent croissants, which is how I discovered it!
LAMPEDUSA BAR
Lempedusa Bar is the perfect spot to chill with a cocktail in the early evening. It’s right on the waterfront, so you can watch the boats float by from the outdoor terrace, the most inviting place – I found myself here a few times.
Is Stari Grad Hvar worth visiting?
Yes! Stari Grad is absolutely worth visiting! Even though it’s small, Stari Grad is a lovely place to visit in Hvar for an afternoon or longer- especially if you’re craving serenity, local charm, and a slower pace.
I love relaxed the atmosphere, cobbled lanes and beautiful, serene waterfront; it’s perfect for couples, slow travellers and wine lovers! If you’re staying in Hvar Town, I would seriously consider adding a couple of nights in Stari Grad! Check out the best hotels here!
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO STARI GRAD HVAR
HOW TO GET TO STARI GRAD HVAR
Where is Stari Grad Hvar?
Stari Grad is situated on the North side of Hvar Island, a beautiful coastline surrounded by vineyards and lavender fields. It’s one of the most popular summer destinations in Croatia and easily accessible to all, whether you’re visiting as a day trip from Hvar Town or stopping for a few days!
If you’re staying in Hvar Town you can reach Stari Grad in 30 minutes by car, ATV or local bus and from mainland Split, it’s just a 1-hour boat ride away!
Hvar Town to Stari Grad Hvar
Rental Car
Rental cars are readily available from Hvar Town, a car is great for cruising through the scenic roads and lavender fields en route and stopping in other villages and beaches – you can cover many highlights in one day! Just be aware that parking can be tricky.
ATV
An ATV is a fun way to get to Stari Grad from Hvar Town, and you can make the most of your ATV hire by visiting some of the best beaches on Hvar Island, which are usually off-limits to tourists and cars due to the gravel and twisty roads! An ATV on Hvar gives you a lot of freedom!!
Book: ATV Hire (3-hours to 1 day)
Taxi
Taxis are available throughout the island if you are looking for an easy door-to-door service; the prices are around €40 each way (it could be more). Unfortunately, Uber is not available!
Local Bus
Local buses are available from Stari Grad to Hvar Town and vice versa, they run several times per day from (6.30am-10.30pm), there’s no pre-booking; you simply wait 10 minutes before the scheduled time – and the bus stops conveniently along the town’s edge – this is your best budget option!
Organisied Tour
Another option is to visit Stari Grad and Stari Grad Plain’s UNESCO World Heritage Site with an organised half-day cycle tour, you’ll also see the vineyards, lavender fields and villages: Vbroska and Jelsa, it’s super adventurous and fun!
Book: Half-day Stari Grad Cycle & Wine Tour
Split to Stari Grad Hvar
Passenger Ferry
A direct 1-hour ferry service runs several times per day to Stari Grad from Split, it’s operated by Jadrolinja. You will then need a short taxi to the old town centre of Stari Grad, as it’s a 20-minute walk away .
Car Ferry
For those travelling with a car, the Jadrolinija car ferry leaves from Split port to Stari Grad (Hvar Old Town) 6 times per day, taking 2.5 hours. Book online and register your car details.
Private Transfer
Private transfers are offered from Split and take 1 hour, including a private car transfer from Split Airport to the port and a private speedboat that accommodates 4 people with luggage – door-to-door quick luxury service at any time!
Read the complete guide: 6 BEST Ways To Get From Split To Hvar!
WHEN TO VISIT STARI GRAD HVAR
The best time to visit Stari Grad is from May until September, when the weather is warm and the town vibrant (Hvar Island is very seasonal). Stari Grad doesn’t ever get too busy, but if you’re travelling around the rest of Hvar Island, I recommend avoiding the peak months July and August – it’s super busy and hot!
HOW LONG TO STAY IN STARI GRAD HVAR
Stari Grad is a nice day trip from Hvar Town. For exploring the town itself, you only need 2-3 hours, if you plan to visit the Stari Grad Plain, the vineyards or a nearby beach (best if you have a car), you can give yourself another two hours! Read my Stari Grad day trip guide – a realistic and detailed plan!
For a more leisurely experience, Stari Grad is also a nice spot to stay for a couple of nights. This is a great option if you want to explore the more authentic side of Hvar Island! Check out the best accommodation options here!
STARI GRAD HVAR FAQ
Is Stari Grad better than Hvar Town?
Stari Grad and Hvar Town have completely different vibes, Stari Grad is quaint, quiet and ancient while Hvar Town is lively with lots of attractions, but also very beautiful!
If dramatic scenery, top restaurants, beach clubs and yachts are your thing head for Hvar Town; if you prefer local atmosphere, less tourism and more romance then opt for Stari Grad. My personal preference if I were choosing one over the other is to stay in Hvar Town and visit Stari Grad!
How old is Stari Grad Hvar?
Stari Grad is one of the oldest towns not only in Croatia, but in Europe, dating back 2,400-year, that’s a lot of ancient history – and without a doubt well worth seeing!
How long does it take to get from Split to Hvar?
It takes 1 hour to get from Split to Hvar, either by ferry directly from the port of Split or private speedboat transfer to Hvar Town (which also includes a private car pick up from the airport for door-to-door service).
STARI GRAD CROATIA – FINAL THOUGHTS
Whether you’re planning a peaceful day trip or looking for a laid-back place to stay, Stari Grad Hvar offers a completely different side of the island – one that’s rich in culture, history, and slow island charm.
From vineyard strolls and UNESCO-listed landscapes to cobbled streets and hidden coves, there’s plenty of lovely things to do in Stari Grad Croatia!
If you’re deciding where to base yourself on the island, don’t miss my guide to Where To Stay in Hvar Island, or head over to The Ultimate Hvar Travel Guide for everything you need to plan your trip.
And if you’re arriving from the mainland, check out my post on the Best Ways to Travel from Split to Hvar to make your journey as smooth as possible.
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Plan your Stari Grad, Hvar trip!
Here’s my go-to list of resources for transport, accommodation, tours and more:
- Booking.com: For the best accommodation rates
- Trip Advisor: Check out the latest reviews & trips
- Get Your Guide: For incredible day trips
- Viator: For alternative day trips
Read More About Hvar Island:
- Ultimate Guide To Hvar Island: What To See & Do!
- 15 Best Things To Do In Hvar Town, Croatia
- Where To Stay in Hvar Croatia: Best Areas & Boutiques
- Hidden Gems: Best Day Trips From Hvar Island
- Ultimate Guide To Hvar Pakleni Islands: What To See & Do!
- Top Boat Tours From Hvar Town: A Complete Breakdown!
- Is The Blue Cave Tour From Hvar Worth It? My Honest Review!
- Best Beaches On Hvar Island: Stunning Spots You’ll Love!
- Stari Grad Hvar: Why You Should Visit & Best Things To Do
- Stari Grad Croatia: A Perfect Day Trip From Hvar Town
- A Guide To The Best Restaurants In Hvar Croatia
- 6 Best Ways To Travel From Split To Hvar: A Detailed Guide
- How To Plan A Perfect Day Trip To Hvar From Split In 2025
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Michelle Trudie, is the founder of Little Wanderblog, a luxury boutique travel site. She has travelled to over 30 countries in the last 15 years. Michelle share’s her passion for stylish and affordable luxury travel experiences in Europe and beyond! Her goal is to make travel planning easier to hidden gem places!