15 BEST Things To Do In Hvar Town, Croatia

Last updated on September 17th, 2025 at 02:04 am

Are you planning a trip to Hvar Island and wondering what the best things to do in Hvar Town are? I’ve got you covered!

Hvar Town is Croatia’s most glamorous and postcard-perfect island! With its vibrant harbour, historic stone lanes and scenic vistas, it’s easy to see why this island gem draws luxury travellers and yacht-hoppers from around the world.

Whether you’re here for a chic weekend escape or adding Hvar to your island-hopping itinerary, here are 15 of the best things to do in Hvar Town that blend coastal beauty with culture, style, and fun!

It’s my favourite Mediterranean island to visit, and soon it will be yours too!!

Where To Stay In Hvar Town

Hvar Town is one of the most beautiful places to stay on Hvar Island. Its charming old town buzzes with energy, boutique hotels, and sweeping sea views, while the surrounding coastline is dotted with peaceful bays and upscale places to unwind.

Top 3 Hotels In Hvar Town

15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN HVAR TOWN – YOUR STYLISH GUIDE!

1. EXPLORE ST STEPHENS SQUARE & HVAR CATHEDRAL

St Stephen’s Square is one of the prettiest in Croatia, overflowing with stunning Venetian architecture, terraces, marble stone and history! It’s a central hub where everyone gathers for drinks, ceremonies, and just to watch all the activity from a lovely terrace – it’s the perfect place to start exploring Hvar town!

One of my favourite spots is the Arsenal, which has an expansive veranda overlooking the square and offers great panoramic views – like the one I took a picture of below! You’ll also find a small art gallery at the top, which is pretty cool!

Hvar Town square views from above,  Fortress and Venetian buildings

2. WANDER THE ANCIENT LANES OF HVAR TOWN

Hvar Old Town is utterly charming, and one of the best things to do is spend an hour or two wandering the ancient lanes and exploring on your own! You’ll soon discover hidden gems, from beautiful buildings to courtyards, boutique shops, cafes and restaurants – with secret courtyards, such as Paradise Gardens, which was one of my favourite finds!

During the daytime, this area of Hvar Town is almost deserted; however, in the evening the darkness brings out a lively atmosphere, twinkling lights, and attentive waiters, the transformation is incredible!

3. TAKE A SCENIC BOAT TRIP TO THE PAKLENI ISLANDS

One of the best things to do in Hvar Town is to visit the Pakleni Islands on board a private sailboat! We chose a full day, because sailing is our favourite way to experience the smaller islands and see more of the pretty scenery.

Visiting Hvar Pakleni Islands (sometimes called Paklinski Islands or Pakleni otoci) is a must do, you’ll find beautiful, clear water bays, stunning landscapes, idyllic waterfront restaurants for lunch and more! We swam and snorkelled in coves that we had all to ourselves! Mlini Island was a real highlight, but there were many other incredible spots!

Take a look at the sailing tour we selected to experience the Pakleni Islands in comfort and style!

Ready to explore Hvar by sea?
Don’t miss the island’s most unforgettable experience! Discover the best Hvar boat tours for 2025

4. FIND THE BEST COFFEE SPOTS IN THE OLD TOWN

Coffee lovers will be happy, I located two of the best spots for artisan coffee and cake just behind the Riva in the old town! Kava 37 Hvar is a cool minimalist place offering quality coffee beans from around the world – it’s tiny, but there’s a bench on the cobbled lane to sit and enjoy!

Along the same back lane, you’ll also find Nonica, which is a charming patisserie serving coffee and a selection of traditional mini cakes for a sweet treat – there are a few tables and chairs to sit and relax outside!

5. VISIT THE FORTRESS FOR INCREDIBLE VIEWS

Tvrdava Fortica sits high above Hvar old town, you will come across it easily as it’s one of the most prominent sights in Hvar! You can climb the steps to the Napoleon Fortress for fantastic views over the red rooftops of the old town, harbour and the Pakleni Islands sprinkled across the blue sea in the distance.

It’s my favourite view of Hvar by far and it’s easy to get to – just head to St Stephen’s Square and follow the sign up the stairs – the incredible view is well worth the trek and small entrance fee; head there in the late afternoon when it’s quiet and the sea is shimmering!

Planning a boat trip to the Pakleni Islands? Check out my complete guide to the scenic Pakleni Islands – the best day trip from Hvar Town!

6. HAVE A LOVELY LUNCH AT CHARMING FIG

Fig Hvar is a must-visit lunch spot in Hvar Town, situated down an attractive 16th-century cobbled lane in a peaceful area away from the main thoroughfare, offering tasty salads and flatbreads (try the fig and ricotta, it’s super moorish!!).

If you venture here in the evening, booking is essential; Fig is a casual place, but the menu, friendly service and ambience make it extremely popular!

7. VISIT THE BEST BEACHES IN HVAR TOWN

Spend the day or a few hours on the beach in Hvar, there are some lovely pebble beach coves with clear water for swimming dotted all around the scenic coastline!

You only have to walk 10 minutes to find the best beaches in Hvar Town, which are completely natural and free! My favourite spots include Bonj Beach or Pokonji Dol Beach, and further along the coast; quiet Robinson’s Beach!

Robinson’s has the most idyllic white pebbled beach cove – there’s also a family-run restaurant and you can lounge and spend all day relaxing – it’s worth the 40-minute coastal walk to get there or you can cheat and grab a water taxi!

8. SUNSET DRINKS AT FALKO BEACH BAR

Enjoy a few cocktails at the prettiest boho Mediterranean beach bar set within a picturesque location along the waterfront. Falko is a great option for sunset, it’s framed by cactus borders, hammocks and an endless expanse of turquoise coastline.

It’s my go-to place for a respite from the town and a relaxed vibe – you can even lounge here as there are sunbeds along the water’s edge – arrive early though as there’s only a few and no reservation options!

9. SOAK UP THE VIBE ALONG THE RIVA

Hvar’s waterfront is lined with palm trees and buzzing terraces, it’s the most luxurious in Croatia and also my favourite for strolling, people watching and afternoon drinks on BB’s terrace (or for something livelier in the evening Carpe Diem Hvar bar) with fancy views of blue sea and super yachts!

Boat tours and ferries depart from the end of the Riva, which is super convenient for exploring the smaller picturesque islands and bays, including my favourite sunset sailing tour, which sets you up for a wonderful evening ahead!

10. AN EVENING OF LIVE JAZZ AT PARK HVAR TERRACE

One of the best things to do in Hvar Town is wander over to the terrace of Park Hvar Heritage Hotel for an evening of live Jazz. It’s the perfect entertainment spot if you are looking for a relaxed night and something a little different!

Not only is the Jazz and ambience great, but the location is heavenly too, overlooking the harbour, boats, and palm trees; it’s actually my favourite place at any time of day!

11. ENJOY TOP HVAR RESTAURANT PARADISE GARDEN

Hvar has no shortage of top restaurants, but dining in Paradise Garden’s charming terrace is not to be missed! Split across two sitting areas, including an open-air rooftop terrace with views, Paradise Garden Hvar has quickly become one of the best restaurants in Hvar!

Serving both Mediterranean and Croatian, the menu is a crowd pleaser and the service attentive, my personal recommendations include the crab and guacamole starter or burrata (big enough to share) and tuna steak – the cocktails are fancy as well! Reserve a table in advance to avoid missing out!

12. SPEND A LUXURIOUS DAY AT HVAR BEACH CLUB

Beach Club Hvar is the most stylish and sophisticated spot to spend your day! It’s located about halfway around the coastal promenade. You can’t miss the blue and white luxurious seating arrangements and decor, it’s a beautiful place right on the waterfront!

Everything is included at this beach club in Hvar, including towels, water, sun umbrella and table service for €50 per sunbed. If you want to upgrade, there are cabanas, overwater decks and an elegant Mediterranean restaurant for lunch and drinks! It truly stands out as one of the best beach clubs on Hvar!

View of Hvar Beach Club island and sea views
Beach Club Hvar

13. VISIT STARI GRAD’S ANCIENT TOWN

Visit the charming heritage town Stari Grad with cobblestone lanes, authentic squares, quaint boutiques, and historic sites. If you’re looking to explore more Croatian culture and see another side to Hvar Island, this is the perfect day trip from Hvar Town!

Stari Grad is a tranquil and lovely place to explore for a few hours or an afternoon and is well worth checking out while you’re staying in Hvar Town. You can get there in around 30 minutes by local bus or taxi, across the UNESCO site of lavender fields and vineyards – specialising in olive oil and wine!

Check out my Stari Grad day trip from Hvar Town guide!

14. FIND THE BEST BARS IN HVAR TOWN

Hvar is a well-known spot for nightlife among the Croatian Islands, and in the old town, you can find hidden gems that are some of the best bars in Hvar.

For a sophisticated evening, head to my favourite bar next to the Cathedral; upmarket Ka’lavanda for artesian cocktails, DJ and sofas or for a casual drink, try Back Lane Bar, which has ambience in spades and charming seats along the cobbles!

Where to party in Hvar Town? If you’re looking to party, you can easily find it at Hula Hula from 6-,10pm, Carpe Diem Bar until 2am and Carpe Diem Beach Club Hvar until late!

15. GO ON A SUNSET SAILING TRIP

Finally, when staying in Hvar Town, you must go on a sunset sailing trip around the stunning islands, it’s one of the most fantastic things to do in Hvar Town! We booked our sailing trip at the last minute, and it turned out to be a real highlight and a perfect end to our stay on Hvar Island.

You’ll have a relaxing time on this sailboat with a maximum of 8 passengers. It’s just two hours and slots perfectly into your evening. Don’t forget to bring along a drink and a playlist!

Book your sunset sailing trip in Hvar or check out my full boat trip guide to the Pakleni Islands here!

TOP ACCOMMODATION IN HVAR TOWN

Hvar Town is the best place to stay in Hvar Croatia, for most visitors, whether you’re looking for an apartment, boutique or luxury hotel, Hvar Town is the place to splurge – imagine beautiful rooms and views!

Hotel Moeesy

Hotel Moeesy, a stylish new coastal retreat set within stunning grounds – this five-star property offers three sea-facing swimming pools, a lovely garden, sauna and multiple sea-view luxurious terraces. One of the best boutique hotels in Hvar Town!

Park Heritage Hotel

Heritage Hotel Park Hvar is an affordable luxury hotel at the end of the vibrant Riva with lovely harbour views. It boasts elegant rooms with sea views and super popular restaurant and terrace decorated with bright flowers, it’s a great spot night and day, I love the live jazz in the evenings!

Beach Bay Hvar Hotel

Beach Bay Hvar, a chic seafront boutique hotel in Hvar on the quieter side of town, with fresh neutral decor and balconies overlooking an attractive bay and Franciscan Monastery. We stopped here when it first opened and recommend the double room with sea view – what a view!

Need more options? Here’s my complete guide on Where To Stay In Hvar Island: Areas, Apartments, Boutiques & Hotels!

TRAVEL TIPS FOR VISITING HVAR TOWN

Book Restaurants In Advance

Hvar Town gets very busy in summer – especially July and August. If you want to dine at hotspots like Dalmatino, Giaxa or Fig, book your table a few days ahead or visit at unpopular times!

Arrive Early For Beach Club Sun Loungers

Places like Hula Hula or Beach Club Hvar fill up quickly. If you’re planning a beach day, aim to arrive by 10am for a good spot – or reserve loungers online in advance.

Bring Cash For Small Shops & Boats

While most places take cards, small local vendors, water taxis, and island hopping boats often prefer cash.

Respect The Dress Code In The Old Town

Walking shirtless or in swimwear through the old town is disrespectful and can even earn you a fine. Cover up when you’re not on the beach.

Take A Water Taxi To Avoid The Crowds

To escape the town for a few hours, hop on a water taxi to the Pakleni Islands or nearby beaches. It’s part of the Hvar experience.

Plan Your Ferries In Advance

Whether you’re travelling from Split to Hvar or heading to Korčula, check ferry schedules and book online ahead of time the fast catamarans sell out fast in peak season.

View of the Pakleni Islands from Hvar Fortress at sunset

THINGS TO DO IN HVAR TOWN ESSENTIALS

IS HVAR WORTH VISITING?

Yes! Hvar is absolutely worth staying, it’s one of the most attractive places in Croatia and packed with incredible sights, attractions and upmarket places to eat, drink and relax, there’s lots to see and do in Hvar!

WHEN TO VISIT HVAR TOWN

For the best experience, great weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting Hvar Town in the shoulder season; May-June and September-early October. April is the quietest pre-season month, July and August are the peak season months, busy and hot, but don’t worry, you can find quiet spots too!

HOW MANY DAYS IN HVAR TOWN

Hvar is a stunning island, the best in the Mediterranean, so ideally to do it justice 5 days minimum is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights including exploring the nearby Pakleni Islands and crystal clear waters! A day trip from Split to Hvar is possible, but only if you are very short on time!

WHERE IS HVAR TOWN

Hvar Town is located on the southwest side of Hvar Island off Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coastline. It’s situated between Brac, Korcula and Vis Island and only an hour’s boat ride from Split.

HOW TO GET TO HVAR TOWN

Split is the major transfer hub for getting to Hvar and there 3 direct ways to get from Split to Hvar Town including; ferries, car ferries and private transfers.

Ferries

Ferries leave Split port several times per day in the peak summer months from 8.30am until 19.30pm, the quickest time is 50-minutes.

Book online hereand arrive 30 minutes beforehand!

Car Ferry

The Jadrolinija car ferry leaves from Split port to Stari Grad (Hvar Old Town) 6 times per day between 5am and 20.20pm.

Book online and register your car details here.

Private Transfer

Private transfers take 1 hour and includes a private car transfer from Split Airport to the port and private speedboat that accommodates 4 people with luggage – door to door luxury service at any time!

Book in advance here.

Read the complete guide, 6 BEST Ways To Get From Split To Hvar!

FINAL THOUGHTS

That wraps up my guide to the 15 best things to do in Hvar Town, Croatia!

From historic sights to stylish spots by the sea, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Hvar Town. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying a little longer, this Croatian gem offers the perfect mix of culture, glamour, nightlife, relaxation and island charm. Trust me – it’s a place you’ll want to come back to!

Next: Plan an incredible day trip from Hvar Town – from the Pakleni Island to vineyards!

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Plan your Hvar Island itinerary!

Here’s my go-to list of resources for transport, accommodation, and tours for travel on Hvar Town!

Plan your Hvar, Croatia itinerary!

Here’s my go-to list of resources for transport, accommodation, and tours for travel in Hvar Croatia!

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Michelle Trudie
Michelle Trudie

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!

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