15 BEST Things To Do In Hvar Town Croatia: You’ll Actually Love!

Last updated on August 16th, 2026 at 11:27 am

Hvar Town is Croatia’s most beautiful destination, nestled within a perfect horse-shoe bay with a dazzling Venetian Riviera, charming historic centre and a hilltop fortress that has the most spectacular Adriatic views and among the scenery there are so many incredible things to do in Hvar Town from long waterside lunches to exploring hidden coves by boat!

Postcard-perfect Hvar Old Town is packed with fascinating historic sights, excellent restaurants and unforgettable experiences and every time I visit I find more hidden gems tucked within it’s cobbled lanes or a beautifully restored roof top terrace while revisiting my favourite spots and soaking-up the jaw-dropping coastal views from the Riviera, one of the best places to stay in Hvar!

But there’s far more to discover than strolling the palm-lined harbour and dining on the town’s the most alluring restaurant terraces, although both are my favourite things to do in Hvar Town some of the biggest highlights on recent trips have been finding local wine bars, secluded swim spots and quieter corners that many visitors walk straight past!

I’ve been returning to Hvar Town for over a decade, and despite becoming more popular, it never loses its magic! If you know where to go, avoid the busiest times and venture beyond the more obvious attractions, you’ll discover why it’s my favourite place in Croatia. Here are my insider tips and the very best things to do in Hvar Town.

Top Hotel Picks For Hvar Town:

Planning your trip? Here’s my top hotel picks!

• Heritage Hotel Park Hvar – best overall boutique in Hvar old town!
• Hotel Moessy – boutique hotel, pool & Mediterranean scenic setting!
• Riva Marina Hvar Hotel  – beautiful iconic hotel on the Riviera!

Read my full guide on where to stay in Hvar Croatia!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN HVAR TOWN CROATIA!

1. VISIT THE FORTRESS FOR INCREDIBLE VIEWS (Top things to do in Hvar old town)

If you’ve scoped out Hvar Old Town, I’m sure you’ll be aware of the incredible Spanish Fortress that looms high above the bay, it’s easily the most prominent sight in Hvar and one of the best things to do in Hvar Town is climb those iconic stone steps from the square to reach this magnificent viewpoint!

I’ve visited the Fortress a few times, the panorama is just unbeatable from this vantage point and my favourite experience was in the late afternoon before the sun sets. At this time you’ll witness the most beautiful golden light over the terracotta rooftops without the intensity of the hot mid-day sun and there’s barely any crowds, I could gaze at the glistening turquoise water and Pakleni Islands Hvar beyond for hours, it really is a sight to behold!

Even though the walk is steep, it’s very easy to get to, there are signs leading from St Stephen’s Square up the steps where it continues along the 6th century-built Fortress walls – for the privilege you’ll pay a fee, but you can stay for as long as it takes to capture the perfect panorama – it really is just as incredible as the many viewpoints in Dubrovnik old town!

Tip – At the top there’s a terrace and small café, but the view is largely blocked by the outer fortress wall – I recommend instead stopping by for a drink in Ka’lavanda next to the cathedral on your return back down!

2. EXPLORE ALL THE HISTORIC GEMS IN HVAR OLD TOWN

Hvar Old Town is completely pedestrianised and incredible to wander around, one of my favourite things to do in Hvar Island is seek out those hidden gems among the cobbled lanes with traditional stone buildings and iconic green shutters, very similar to what you find in nearby Split, Trogir and Korcula the most charming part of the town, and it’s where you’ll discover artisan shops and secret roof tops!

St Stephen’s Square is the real heart and soul of Hvar Town, one of the prettiest in Croatia boasting stunning Venetian architecture, inviting terraces, marble stone and the town’s cathedral! I especially love the historic Arsenal, which has an expansive veranda at the top overlooking the atmospheric terraces and offers panoramic views across this whole scene (see the below picture), you can stay for a drink – or peruse the art gallery!

Mornings are generally best if you want to explore the town without the crowds and day trippers, but even then you can wander around the small lanes and find yourself totally alone, especially if you take the flower-filled stone stairs above the harbour, you’ll find tucked-away coffee spots like Kava 37 Hvar, Back Lane Bar and charming Nonica – for tea and cake!

If you’re staying for 3-5 days, don’t miss my guide to the best day trips from Hvar – explore picturesque islands, villages, scenic beaches and iconic landscapes of the Adriatic!

3. TAKE A SCENIC SAIL BOAT TRIP TO THE PAKLENI ISLANDS (A highlight from Hvar old town)

If you want to see the most scenic islands and bays in the Adriatic, I recommend sailing around the Pakleni Islands from Hvar Town, which are the small group of islands you can see clearly from the Fortress and in my experience this private sailboat trip is the best way to explore it all – away from the crowds and bumpy speedboats, I always re-visit my favourite spots on every stay!

Around the islands there are beautiful bays with clear water swimming coves, natural pebble beaches and dreamy over water terraces, I especially love spending time in Mlini and Palmizana bays, both are very appealing and offer excellent restaurants and along the way you’ll discover serene and natural beauty spots only accessible by private boat!

I love Mamato – a boho-lux Mediterranean restaurant set on a picturesque cove on Mlini, it makes a wonderful lunch stop right next to the waters edge surrounded by olive trees, while Laganini boutique beach club on Palmizana is perfect for cocktails, music and vibes – a great way to end your day!

You’ll need to book in advance, the superior Pakleni Island trips are popular over the summer months, take a look at the full details and availability of this private sailing tour here!

Browse my hand-picked boat tours from Hvar for a epic scenery, beautiful beach coves and stylish days on the water!

4. STAY IN A BEAUTIFUL HVAR OLD TOWN BOUTIQUE HOTEL

For an unforgettable thing to do in Hvar Town, I recommend staying within the atmospheric old town this is where the most beautiful boutique hotels are situated with their own private rooftops boasting secret views and incredible historic interiors – think marble floors and Venetian windows, the settings are magical, just like the boutique hotels in Dubrovnik!

I’ve stopped in Hvar Old Town more than anywhere else, it’s the best place to stay in Hvar, where everything is within walking distance from the restaurants to beaches and boat excursions that leave directly from the harbour and the hotels are favourably situated in the historic square and the riviera with beautiful sea views and breakfast terraces, which is a wonderful way to start your day!

I really adore Riva Marina Hvar Hotel right in the loveliest part of the Riva and the elegant Heritage Hotel Park Hvar, where I’ve previously stayed and was especially taken by the stylish interiors and private balcony for evening drinks. A beautiful setting and central stay makes exploring all the best things to do in Hvar Town much more effortless!

If you want to explore the best hotels in Hvar Old Town, here’s my full guide on where to stay in Hvar Croatia, perfect if you want to be located in or walking distance to the Old Town!

5. HAVE A LOVELY LUNCH AT CHARMING FIG

I always love finding cosy lunch spots in every destination I go to and in Hvar old town, there is really none more worth seeking out than charming FIG tucked within a side cobbled passage, it serves the best light lunch options including delicious flat breads, colourful salads and wine – try the fig and ricotta, it’s super moorish!

Fig Hvar has a different menu from anywhere else in Hvar Town, influenced by Mediterranean and Mexican favourites, the service is friendly and the terrace is charming and casual, I’ve also eaten here for breakfast once or twice, perfect for those slow mornings with a lovely ambiance and their coffee is great!

I recommend arriving earlier for breakfast in the peak summer weeks as this spot with very few tables gets full fast, especially after 10am, I often make a stop here before spending the rest of the day relaxing on one of the beaches in Hvar or a afternoon’s boat trip from Hvar!

See my hand-picked boat tours from Hvar the very best island coastal and island experiences in the Adriatic!

6. SPEND THE DAY AT HVAR’S BEAUTIFUL BEACHES

One of the best things to do in Hvar Town is spend time relaxing on the beaches and there are some lovely spots within walking distance to Hvar Town. I usually visit a different beach every day from the tiniest pebble coves with the clearest turquoise waters to the kind of beaches that look they belong on a film set!

All the beaches on Hvar Island are pebbly, but when travelling around Croatia this is something you get accustomed to, they are still absolutely lovely and perfect for cooling down on a hot summers day, it’s one of the reasons for visiting Hvar Island and you only have to walk 10-15 minutes from Hvar Town to find my favourites!

The first is Pokonji Dol Beach a natural white pebble stone beach with shallow water and a couple of rustic restaurants while further along the coastal path and pine trees (10-15 minutes) there’s Robinson’s Beach, which is set in an idyllic bay with a few sun loungers near the family-run Robinsons restaurant – where you can catch a bit of shade and lunch!

But, the absolute best beaches on Hvar Island are the remote and dramatic beach coves on South Hvar such as Lucisca Bay and the incredible Malo Zarace Beach, including the red rocks, which are only accessible by private beach-hopping boat, away from the crowds and tourist-heavy beaches, these beaches are all about the privacy and landscape!

For beach lovers and those who want to explore the best beaches on Hvar and incredible coastline from Hvar Town, I highly recommend this epic coastal private boat tour, which takes in the spots only accessible from the sea!

7. SUNSET DRINKS AT FALKO BEACH BAR (Favourite things to do in Hvar Town Croatia)

Sipping a cool drink by the water’s edge is one of the best things to do in Hvar Town, every time I visit, Falko beach bar is the spot I head to first, there’s something about the beautiful coastal walk and dreamy boho white décor, framed by cactus borders, hammocks and endless Adriatic views that draws me in!

When I first discovered this calm corner of Hvar Town, over ten years ago now, I was absolutely thrilled, everyone talks about Hvar Old Town, but the beauty that lies at either side rarely gets a mention! Falko is around a 35-40 minute walk from St Stephen’s square, past the lively Hula Hula bar and what you get here is a picturesque location with a relaxed Mediterranean vibe and epic sunsets, it’s one of the best beach clubs in Hvar!

It’s one of those places that you hope to find, and I should probably keep secret, but for now it isn’t over-ran with tourists and you can easily claim a beach bed along the water’s edge if you turn up at 9.30am for the best pick, I often grab a pastry and coffee from Kantun Bakery in the square before the rest of the town has woken up and arrive at Falko just as it opens – and stay for the best part of the day!

8. SOAK UP THE VIBE ALONG THE RIVA

Hvar’s Riva is the perfect place for a stroll, it’s one of the things that I love about Hvar old town and frequently walk up and down the pedestrian-friendly prom with it’s gorgeous row of palm trees among terraces and elegant Venetian architecture and on my most recent visit I was able to walk right out of my wonderful apartment and on to the Riva!

This beautiful area of Hvar Town always leave visitors in awe and it’s exactly where you arrive from the catamarans if you’ve travelled in from Split, Korcula or Dubrovnik – even after many summers, it still blows me away! Both tourists and locals gravitate towards this lovely area of town, I especially like sitting at the tall breakfast bar at Forr and watching the harbour and yacht activity in the mornings!

It’s truly impressive and one of my favourite areas to stay in Hvar, there’s always has a good atmosphere, BB’s terrace with a perfect sea view, is by far the most popular spot and a great time to visit is in the late afternoon or right before sunset. If I’ve taken a Hvar boat trip for the day it’s a nice place to return to!

Browse the very best boat tours from Hvar, my top experiences from dramatic south Hvar beaches, to the gorgeous Pakleni Islands and mesmerising Blue Cave!

9. AN EVENING OF LIVE JAZZ AT PARK HVAR TERRACE

For a lovely and alternative evening out in Hvar Old Town, I recommend heading over to the terrace of Park Hvar Heritage Hotel, it’s one of my favourite pastimes, drinking wine and listening to live jazz. I love the atmosphere and increasingly it’s becoming more popular, as the crowds that gather are looking for someplace a little more sophisticated!

Seats fill up quickly so I would aim to arrive before 8pm, even if this is quite early for Croatian standards and not only is the live music and ambiance great the location is also one of the best and most beautiful in Hvar Old Town – I often sit under the bougainvillea for breakfast!

While absorbing the atmosphere you’ll be overlooking the harbour with the sea breeze, palm trees and pink flowers, it’s extremely photogenic and one of the reasons why I’ve twice stayed here, it’s one of the best hotels in Hvar, were romantic and solo travellers can feel at home!

If you want to explore the best hotels in Hvar Old Town, here’s my full guide on where to stay in Hvar Croatia!

10. ENJOY TOP HVAR RESTAURANT PARADISE GARDEN

Hvar Old Town really has no shortage of quality restaurants and on my recent visit I discovered the stylish Paradise Garden hidden within the old town, a true hidden gem that has quickly became one of my favourite spots, it boats a beautifully furnished patio and a roof top terrace with lovely old town views!

Paradise Garden is a family ran restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients and specialities, my personal recommendations include the crab and guacamole starter or burrata (big enough to share) and delicate tuna steak – the cocktails are also well made and for the best experience, I suggest reserving a table in advance around 8pm on the rooftop terrace where the ambience is wonderful!

I’ve also stopped by for lunch, this restaurant opens at 12pm, if your travelling over the busy period and you haven’t booked ahead lunchtime is a much quieter option and you’ll still get the same menu, great service and view – don’t miss Paradise Garden, one of the best restaurants in Hvar Croatia!

11. SPEND A LUXURIOUS DAY AT HVAR BEACH CLUB (Upscale things to do in Hvar Town)

If you fancy an upscale day by the water’s edge I highly recommend Hvar Beach Club, just a 10 minute walk from Hvar town square and the most well known for its dreamy setting and lush coastal décor. It belong to the Sunčani Hvar hotels with links to Elisabeth Palace, so you know this beach club is going to be five-star quality and it’s one of my favourite ways to spend the day relaxing in style!

Beach Club Hvar (formally Les Bains) is the most sophisticated sunbathing spot with over-water plush loungers and private pontoons, I always visit knowing full-well I’ll be spending the entire day here sunbathing and lunching in their breezy restaurant, plus a few drinks on the lounger. It’s uncrowded and truly stands out as one of the best beach clubs on Hvar Island!

If you’re visiting Hvar in the peak summer weeks, it’s best to book online in advance to guarantee your spot, you’ll get a sun umbrella, towels and personal service and so you are aware this beach club doesn’t have a beach – you will be stepping off the stairs for a swim – but don’t miss this highlight of Hvar Town!

For more beach day ideas, see my best beaches on Hvar Island guide, which includes the most picturesque beaches and those only reachable by boat – one of the best things to do in Hvar Town!

12. VISIT STARI GRAD’S ANCIENT TOWN

Stari Grad is the oldest town on the island and one of the best things to do in Hvar Town is take a half day to wander around it’s heritage lanes and squares with traditional houses and stroll along the tranquil harbour lined with pastel villas and boats, it has a different feel from vibrant Hvar Town as is worth making the time to explore!

I have since stayed in the prettiest boutique hotel in Stari Grad, overall, it’s a charming setting that not many tourists get to see, but even if you only have a few hours spare you can really explore the entire area, making it the perfect cultural day trip from Hvar Town – and to make your visit ever more memorable, I highly recommend reserving a table for lunch in Antika Restaurant in the most historic location!

Stari Grad is only a 30 minute drive away from Hvar Town and you can easily get there by local bus or taxi and if you have your own wheels, you should absolutely check out the nearby lavender fields and vineyards – specialising in olive oil and wine, I fell in love with this side of the island years ago – if you have the time don’t miss it!

For even more inspiration, browse my full guide to the best day trips from Hvar Town, including vineyards, historic towns and island escapes.

13. FIND THE BEST BARS IN HVAR TOWN

Hvar Town is well known for it’s nightlife, the most lively among the Croatian islands and you can really find some good spots in Hvar old town to spend a great evening, aside from the jazz and wine that I mentioned above to celebrate the sunset with DJ’s and dancing – Hula Hula beach club is the place to be, which and kicks off around 6-7pm until 10pm – and it gets busy fast!

I have visited this vibrant spot across many summers, it’s always a fun time, but my absolute favourite two bars are Ka’lavanda set within a passage near the cathedral for artesian cocktails and a grown up vibe and Back Lane Bar behind the riviera, which has a lovely chilled atmosphere with a charming seating area along the cobbles, a real hidden gem in a quieter part of town!

For late night owls Carpe Diem Bar on the Riva is the best spot for dancing until 2am, a chic bar with a strict door policy, dressing up is essential and groups are best booking a table in advance, it’s very popular with the yacht crowd who are parked just outside and the venue is gorgeous!

Note: The late night loud music and beach club Carpe Diem is no longer, under new strict rules Hvar is turning its party reputation around to a more civilised environment – Carpe Diem beach in the Pakleni Islands now operates in the day time – finishing at midnight – it was operating 24hrs with boats coming and going throughout the night!!

14. TAKE IN THE VIEWS OF HVAR TOWN FROM NAPOLEON FORTRESS

Napoleon Fortress is another stunning viewpoint over Hvar old town that not many people know about, it’s often the most peaceful place for views and sunsets, when I visited I was the only person there except for my kind Croatian friend who took me to this incredible beauty spot!

At the top you’ll find a few benches to sit and take in the view and you could easily bring your own food and drinks, it feels very much like a local secret and on a clear evening you can see beyond Hvar Town’s houses and the Pakleni Islands, I absolutely love viewpoints especially when not crowded or touristic and this blows most out of the water!

Truly if you liked the viewpoints in Dubrovnik old town, you will love the ones that Hvar Town has instore, which is why I believe it’s best area to stay in Hvar Croatia, it is just full of surprises like this!

15. GO ON A SERENE SUNSET SAILING TRIP

Although I’ve mentioned one or twice about the legendary sunsets in Hvar Town and viewpoint or bars, one of my favourite ways to experience the bright orange sunsets is from the sea, you can easily hop on a short two hour sailboat right from the harbour, which takes you through the scenic Pakleni Islands Hvar to enjoy the sunset away from the crowds and noise!

I especially liked this sunset sailboat were you can bring along your own playlist and drinks, the boat is only small, but perfect for up to six passengers, for small groups or romantic couples you can take a private trip and the beauty is, it’s just two hours so it can slot perfectly into your evening!

Check availability on this beautiful sunset sailing trip in Hvar!

WHERE TO STAY IN HVAR TOWN

Staying inside Hvar Old Town is super convenient, you’ll be having breakfast in a beautiful square surrounded by history and island scenery and can walk to every best Hvar attraction. I’ve personally stayed here more than anywhere else in Hvar and there are some beautiful boutique hotel options to choose from! Here’s my favourites:

Palace Elisabeth

Palace Elisabeth – A 5-star luxury and historic hotel on Hvar Town square boasting marble floors, elegant interiors a rooftop terrace with spa pool and harbour views!

Park Heritage Hotel

Heritage Hotel Park Hvar – A elegant boutique hotel on the harbour with beautiful rooms and a lovely flower-filled terrace in the most attractive setting – book the room with a private balcony!

Riva Marina Hvar Hotel

Riva Marina Hvar Hotel – One of the most iconic Hvar Old Town hotels, set on the Riva, blending historic Venetian charm with luxury details and endless sea views.

Need more options? Here’s my complete guide on Where To Stay In Hvar Island!

TIPS FOR VISITING HVAR TOWN CROATIA

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 luxury 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 big 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 scenic Pakleni Islands or nearby Hvar beaches. It’s part of the Hvar experience, but better still book one of the best boat trips from Hvar Town!

Plan Your Ferries In Advance

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

THINGS TO DO IN HVAR TOWN – TRAVEL DETAILS

When To Visit Hvar Island

Hvar is best explored from early May to late September, avoiding the busiest weeks where possible (mid-July and August. I prefer the beginning of summer May to June, when the evenings are lighter, beaches are opening up, and you can visit all the Croatian Islands – there are also lots of incredible things to do in Hvar Island beyond Hvar Town!

How Long To Stay In Hvar

Hvar is a stunning island, the best in the Mediterranean, I’d recommend at least 3-5 days to really experience Hvar Town, the Pakleni Islands, Stari Grad and some of the island’s beautiful beaches. 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 Around Hvar Island

Hvar Town is car-free and walkable, while car taxis, water taxis, buses and excursions are available to get around the Pakleni Islands, beaches, smaller heritage towns and vineyards directly from Hvar old town harbour, which is also where you get the ferry to Mljet, Korcula, Dubrovnik or Split. It’s super convenient!

How To Get To Hvar Town

Split is the major transfer hub for getting to Hvar and there three 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 here – and 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!

What To Pair With Hvar?

Hvar is ideally located for a multi-stop trip, my personal favourite island-hopping trip for after Hvar (presumably you’ve arrived in Split) is scenic Korcula Island for 3 nights then finishing with the pearl of the Adriatic – Dubrovnik old town for 3/4 nights- a perfect note to end your trip around the Adriatic islands!

Still planning your Hvar Island itinerary?

Planning your trip to Hvar Island? I’ve also shared a complete what-to-do travel guide for first-time visitors, my favourite beaches, restaurants, and the best day trips – perfect for pulling together your ideal itinerary!

• Complete Guide To Hvar Island – top tips & need to know for first time visitors!
• Best Things To Do In Hvar Town – heritage sites, attractions & experiences!
• Where To Stay In Hvar Island – the best areas, boutique hotels & luxury stays!
• Day Trips From Hvar Island – islands, vineyards & heritage towns worth visiting!
• Day trip from Hvar Town To Stari Grad – what to see, do & travel tips!
• Top Boat Tours From Hvar Town – Pakleni Islands, Blue Cave & beyond!
• Best Beaches On Hvar Island – secret coves, beautiful beaches & beach clubs!
• Full Guide To The Pakleni Islands Hvar – best beaches, bars and restaurants!
• Where To Stay In Split Croatia – best areas, boutique hotels & more!

Where To Visit Next In Croatia!

• Where To Stay In Split
• Where To Stay In Dubrovnik
• Where To Stay in Korcula
• Where To Stay in Vis Island

• Best Things To Do In Split
• Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik
• Guide To Korcula Island
• Guide To Vis Island

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