Hvar Island Travel Guide: What To See & Do!

Last updated on September 5th, 2025 at 12:43 am

Wondering what to do in Hvar? Think sunny terraces, elegant beach clubs, boutique wine tastings and golden stone streets that glow at sunset!

Hvar is where Croatian charm meets effortless Mediterranean style – making it one of the most iconic (and irresistible) islands in the Adriatic. Whether you’re here for a glamorous getaway or sun-filled stop on your island-hopping itinerary, this guide covers everything you need to know to experience the very best of Hvar!

Why visit Hvar Island?

Hvar is Croatia’s sunniest – and most stylish island, offering the perfect mix of luxury, culture, and natural beauty unlike anywhere else!

You’ll spend your days lunching along the Riva, wandering ancient towns, swimming in secret beach coves and island-hopping the Pakleni Islands – hopefully by private sailboat (our favourite thing to do)!

Trust me, I’ve visited Hvar and the jewel, Hvar Town, a dozen times – it’s simply one of those postcard-perfect places you fall in love with!

Planning your trip to Hvar last minute?

Here’s a few activities and top hotel recommendations to book before you get to Hvar Island, so you don’t miss out!!

Top Experiences & Tours

• Sailing The Pakleni Islands – top Pakleni Island experience!
• Blue Cave & 5 Islands – best adventurous speedboat tour!
• Hvar Wine Tasting Tour – incredible wine & scenery tour!!

Top 3 Hotels In Hvar

• HOTEL MOEESY – best boutique beach hotel Hvar Town
• BEACH BAY HVAR HOTEL – a chic seafront boutique hotel
• HERITAGE HOTEL PARK HVAR – popular heritage hotel on the harbour

HOW TO GET TO HVAR ISLAND

All travel to Hvar generally involves arriving in Split or Dubrovnik first. The Split to Hvar route is the easiest option, and many European flights fly directly and frequently between April and October. If you’re travelling in the peak summer months, I recommend booking one of the below transfer options 1-2 weeks advance!

Ferry

Regular ferries run between the islands: Korcula, Mljet, Brac, Hvar and Vis and from coastal cities, Dubrovnik or Split. From Dubrovnik, the ferry takes 3 hours with two stops, and from Split, the ferry is direct and the journey is just 1 hour. Tickets can be purchased online.

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 – ideal for small groups!

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

WHERE TO STAY ON HVAR ISLAND

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, while the surrounding coastline and Stari Grad are dotted with peaceful bays and upscale places to unwind – here’s my top picks on Hvar!

AREAS TO STAY – AT A GLANCE

Hvar Town – lively, chic, perfect for nightlife & restaurants.

Stari Grad – quieter, historic charm, ideal for slow travel.

Jelsa & Vrboska – local feel, beaches, family-friendly.

LUXURY & BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN HVAR

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 – you can’t go wrong!

Beach Bay Hvar Hotel

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

Park Heritage Hotel

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

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!

Here’s my complete guide on Where To Stay In Hvar Island!

WHAT TO DO IN HVAR ISLAND CROATIA

PAKLENI ISLANDS

One of the best things to do on Hvar Island is exploring 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 picturesque coastal scenery.

Visiting Hvar Pakleni Islands (sometimes called Paklinski Islands) is a must-do; you’ll find beautiful, clear water bays, stunning landscapes, idyllic waterfront restaurants for lunch and more! We swam in crowd-free, peaceful coves! Mlini Island was a real highlight, but there are many other incredible spots!

Take a look at the sailing tour we selected to experience the Pakleni Islands in comfort and style – you’ll need to book it in advance!!

TOP PAKLENI ISLANDS

Sveti Klement

Sveti Klement is the largest and most popular Hvar Pakleni Island to visit. It’s home to Palmizana, a pretty bay and the main hub of the island and boasts top-class restaurants (like my faves Laganini and Zori) with over-water terraces for incredible lunches and sipping cocktails.

Marinkovac Island

Marinkovak is the second-largest island in the Pakleni Island group. It has Carpe Diem Beach Hvar – a lively music and sunset party destination on one side and beautiful, tranquil Mlini beach on the other! Mlini is my favourite spot for relaxing and shallow water swimming – don’t miss Mamato restaurant and bar!

Jerolim Island

Jerolim is the closest Paklinski Island to Hvar with one of the most popular nudist beaches in Europe! It is made up of small pebbly beaches and coves and is mostly quiet; there is also a restaurant available for lunch.

Check out my Ultimate Guide To The Pakleni Islands!

HVAR TOWN

Hvar Town is the most popular place on Hvar Island, a beautiful, postcard-perfect town with a vibrant waterfront flanked with palm trees, luxury terraces and yachts! You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering the old town’s cobbled lanes, finding Venetian buildings to admire and walking up to the Fortress for epic views above Hvar Town!

St Stephen’s Square and the Cathedral is the central social hub of the town where everyone gathers for drinks and even ceremonies. My favourite thing to do is just watch all the activity from a lovely terrace in the quieter afternoons with an ice cream – it’s the perfect place to start exploring!

Don’t Miss!

• Fortress for stunning old town & sea views
• Historic St Stephen’s Square & Cathedral
• Park Heritage Hotel’s pretty flower-filled stairs

Check out my complete guide on the Best 15 Things To Do In Hvar Town!

BEACHES ON HVAR ISLAND

Hvar has many pebbly and clear water beach coves and inlets perfect for swimming and sunbathing all around the coastline, either accessible by foot or boat! Here’s the best beaches on Hvar Island!

Robinsons Beach

Robinsons Beach is a 40-minute walk (or 10-minute water taxi) from Hvar Town, a lovely white pebble beach cove with an elevated hill to relax on a sunbed, a restaurant and beautiful sea views.

Pokonji Dol Beach

Straight from a postcard, Pokonji Dol Beach is just a 25-minute coastal walk from Hvar Town, it’s one of the best beaches on Hvar Island and the most relaxed. You can hire sunbeds and have a bite to eat here, it’s a heavenly spot!

Dubovica Beach

Dubovica Beach is one of the prettiest beaches on Hvar Island. A dreamy secluded, large pebbled beach cove surrounded by pine trees and olive groves and a view of the 15th Century Franciscan Monastery. It’s tricky to reach, so I recommend getting there via this boat trip, which covers the South Island’s best beaches and scenic spots, which can only be reached by boat!

Milini Beach

Milini Beach (Pakleni Island) is one of my top beaches in Hvar to visit. It’s calm with crystal clear shallow water and white pebbles, surrounded by beautiful nature – there are a few sunbeds, cabanas and two small restaurants – including my go to place – Mamato!

Read my complete guide to the best Beaches on Hvar Island Croatia!

BEACH CLUBS IN HVAR

Hvar Island is renowned for its vibrant social scene and, in particular, the small, stylish beach clubs that can be found near Hvar Town. It’s not quite on the level of Mykonos or Ibiza; by comparison, it’s pretty tame, but you can at least find one to suit your mood and taste for the day!

BEST BEACH CLUBS ON HVAR

Falko Beach Bar

Falko is a low-key, breezy-white beach club with a lovely ambience along the waters edge, a 30-40 minute coastal walk from Hvar Town. It’s my go-to place for a sunset cocktail or even to spend the day on a sunbed just inches from the blue sea! You’ll love the laid-back vibe here!

Laganini Beach Club

Laganini is on Palmizanna Island, a vibrant high-end boho beach club; dreamy white wood, shallow water, cool Balearic beats, tree canopies and a waterfront restaurant. Sunbeds are available, but must be booked in advance. It’s a busy place and the priciest out of the bunch, but the aesthetics are wonderful! You can easily stop here for lunch on your beach-hopping boat trip!!

Beach Club Hvar

Beach Club Hvar is the most stylish and sophisticated spot – and it’s just a 15-minute stroll away from Hvar Town! You can’t miss the blue and white luxurious decor, over-water restaurant and sunbeds, it’s a beautiful location right on the waterfront – this is where I go to spoil myself, I highly recommend reserving online!

Carpe Diem Beach Club Hvar

Carpe Diem Beach Club Hvar is the largest beach club with lots of sun beds, cabanas and seating options! You arrive by boat from Hvar Town, as it’s situated in the Pakleni Islands, it offers a lively sunset scene with DJs until midnight, and caters to a young party crowd.

Hula Hula

Hula Hula is the most well-known beach club in Hvar, offering a casual experience by day (depending on the month) and a dance party from sunset with a heaving bar, DJ and champagne spraying – it’s loud and lively!

STARI GRAD PLAIN (UNESCO)

Stari Grad is the oldest town on Hvar Island and is more tranquil and authentic than Hvar Town; it is a nice contrast to visit both places when exploring Hvar Island, whether that’s as a day trip or a longer stay!

You’ll find a harbour of fishing boats, gorgeous pastel buildings and an old town with stone lanes, traditional houses and squares – including the incredible Skor Square. Nearby Stari Grad Town is home to an UNESCO world heritage site of lavender fields and vineyards, specialising in olive oil and wine!

Check out my guide to the top things to see and do in Stari Grad!

WINE TASTING ON HVAR

Hvar has a long history in winemaking due to its incredible Mediterranean climate and tasting the local wine straight from the vineyards was one of my favourite things to do on Hvar Island. We loved this wine tasting tour that included Hvar lavender fields and scenic stops on the way to the Carić vineyard.

The wine tasting experience was so beautiful inside the traditional candle-lit cellar, and it also came with a tasty charcuterie board – it was so good we didn’t need an evening meal!

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK ON HVAR ISLAND

Hvar Island is one of the best places in Croatia for eating and drinking in scenic and atmospheric spots, either within the charming old towns or along the waterfront with the sea breeze! Here’s my top recommendations for places to eat and drink on Hvar Island!

BEST RESTAURANTS IN HVAR

Restaurant Park Hvar

Restaurant Park Hvar is a fab Croatian restaurant in Hvar Town, situated along a pretty street with bougainvillaea and attractive terraces – a lovely romantic spot for couples!

Paradise Garden

If you’re looking for a beautiful terrace with Mediterranean dishes and a fantastic selection of cocktails, head to Paradise Garden. The menu and reviews speak for themselves! I loved the burrata and crab with guacamole starter!

Fig Hvar

Fig is a must-visit for lunch in a quiet and charming corner of Hvar Town, offering creative, healthy dishes from watermelon salads to fig and ricotta flatbread – don’t miss it!

Dalmatino

Dalmatino is one of the best restaurants in Hvar, boasting an outdoor terrace along the cobbles. It’s my go-to spot for gnocchi and filleted seabass; I highly recommend it – reservations a must for the evening!

Antika (Stari Grad)

A lovely restaurant in the historical centre of Stari Grad, serving typical Croatian dishes and tasty pasta with a good selection of wines – head here for lunch after a morning’s walk!

Check out my complete guide to the Best Restaurants In Hvar Croatia!

BEST BARS IN HVAR

Back Lane Craft Bar

A simple craft cocktail bar on a stunning cobbled side street in Hvar old Town with balconies overhead and little round tables, chairs – a chilled spot to while away the hours!

Ka’Lavanda

Ka’lavanda is an upmarket bar next to Hvar Town’s cathedral. It offers a lively atmosphere, plush sofas and chairs to sit, great music and cocktails – I love this spot, don’t miss it!

The Top Bar

The Top Bar at Adriana Hotel is a lovely, tranquil place for an early evening drink out on the spacious and sophisticated terrace with harbour views.

Carp Diem Hvar

A lively, showy bar on the Riva with sofas and two bars, it attracts the yachting crowd and drinks are served until 2am with top DJs – if you’re after a big night, this is the spot.

DAY TRIPS FROM HVAR ISLAND

Hvar Island is surrounded by islands and coastal gems. I recommend exploring beyond the mainland and jumping on a boat. Here are the best boat tours and day trips from Hvar Island!

Vis Island & Blue Cave Tour

Any trip to this region of Croatia wouldn’t be complete without a boat excursion to the magical Blue Cave tour from Hvar for a totally unique experience!

On this epic speedboat trip, you will also visit the Blue Lagoon, Green Cave and iconic Stinva Beach on Vis Island – dubbed as James Bond beach, a fantastic large white pebbled beach flanked by dramatic cliffs – it’s a must-see (and swim)!!

Amongst all this breathtaking scenery, you’ll also enjoy a lunch on Vis Island, which is a wonderful destination to round off your boat tour from Hvar!

Read: My full and honest review of the Blue Cave & Vis Island Speedboat Tour!

For more incredible boat tours from Hvar Town, check out my complete Hvar boat tours guide!

Pakleni Islands, Red Rocks & Beaches

For beach and scenery lovers, this private speedboat tour of the Pakleni Islands, dramatic red rocks and pretty southern beaches of Hvar is absolutely perfect! You will get to swim and admire some of the most beautiful beaches on Hvar Island, including postcard-perfect Dubovica Beach and hidden gem Lucisca Beach!

A boat is a fantastic way to see the landscape and beaches without the hassle of taxis or hire cars – and you’ll discover more from the sea, no wonder this is one of the most popular Hvar boat tours!!

Are you planning a day trip from Hvar? Make sure to check out this travel guide to the best day trips from Hvar Island – uncover hidden gems!

Stylish Pakleni Island Sailing

Sailing around the Pakleni Islands is the best thing to do on Hvar Island, on our sailing tour of the islands we stopped in scenic beach coves, tranquil spots for snorkelling and swimming! Milini and Palmizana islands are perfect stops for lunch, I recommend Zori along the waterfront beach cove of Palmizana with a perfect view!

For all nature lovers and stylish adventurers, this is one of the Hvar tours that should be a top priority when planning your itinerary!

The Pakleni Islands are one of the main attractions in Hvar, check out my full guide to Hvar Pakleni Islands, What To See & Do!

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO HVAR ISLAND

HOW TO GET AROUND HVAR ISLAND

If you’re staying in Hvar Town, most things are walkable – including beaches, restaurants and the harbour, but if you’re looking to explore, there are buses, car rentals, scooters and even boats!

Car or Scooter

For more freedom to explore hidden coves, inland villages or nearby towns like Stari Grad and Jelsa, renting a car or scooter (only for the very experienced) is your best bet.

ATV

Renting an ATV is better than a car to reach the more rugged and remote beaches, such as Lucisca Bay – there are lots of dirt roads to navigate and an ATV is the only way to drive safely!

Rent an ATV here!

Taxi

Taxis are available, but can be pricey in peak season – so if you plan to move around a lot, exploring some of the smaller beaches and villages on Hvar Island, hiring your own wheels might be best in the long run.

Local Bus

The local bus is handy if you want to get from Hvar Town to Stari Grad and vice versa, this is the most popular route and services run up to five times per day!

Private Boat & Water Taxi

And for a touch of adventure? A private boat or water taxi to the Pakleni Islands is an absolute must!

WHEN TO VISIT HVAR ISLAND

For the best experience, great weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting Hvar 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 LONG TO STAY ON HVAR ISLAND

To do this island justice, 5 days minimum is the perfect amount of time to stay on Hvar Island and see the highlights, including exploring the Pakleni Islands. A day trip from Split to Hvar is possible, but only if you are very short on time!

WHAT TO DO IN HVAR TRAVEL TIPS!

WHAT TO PACK

Bring the essentials:

• Hat, sunglasses, La Roche SPF30-50
• Swimwear and thick towel (for the pebbles)
• Refillable water bottle
• Comfortable walking sandals/shoes 
• Water shoes for swimming & pebble beaches
• Chic cover-ups – Hvar sun is strong!

WHAT TO BOOK

Hvar Island is the most popular island to visit in Dalmatia, booking your accommodation in advance is essential and securing your day trips and transportation like ferries and private transfers at least 2 weeks ahead to avoid disappointment!

When planning your itinerary, I recommend reserving things like top restaurants for evening meals and beach club sunbeds online and ahead of your stay!

HOW TO BOOK

Use official platforms to reserve day trips in Croatia. The trusted apps and agents I use to book all my excursions are Viator and Get Your Guide. Their customer service and flexible booking options are fantastic. For example, if your plans change with Get Your Guide, you can cancel or change with just 24 hours notice – book your day tours in Hvar securely and in advance!

DRESS CODES

If you’re staying in Hvar Town, I recommend dressing a little chic, it is the St Tropez of Croatia, lots of Yachts, celebrities and high-end places, you’ll want to look the part!

Also, do not walk around shirtless or in swimwear when near or in the towns on Hvar Island. Not only is it disrespectful, but you can also receive a hefty fine. Unfortunately, it happened so often that there are now signs in place. Cover up when you’re not on the beach.

FAQ’S TOP THINGS TO DO ON HVAR ISLAND

What to do in Hvar when it rains?

If you’re visiting in summer, it is unlikely to rain, Hvar is the sunniest island in the Mediterranean – this is what it’s known for! However, occasionally there are thunderstorms in the evening, but on the off chance it does rain in Hvar, there are plenty of lovely terraces, bars inside hotels and cafes to pop into!

What to do in Hvar for a day?

If you only have one day in Hvar, I recommend focusing your time in Hvar Town! Visit the Fortress for views, walk around the coastal path, see the old town, have a lovely lunch and maybe visit an island or Stari Grad if you prefer history!

Is it better to stay in Split or Hvar?

Split and Hvar Island have two completely different vibes, one’s a large coastal city with a long prom and historic old town and the other a beautiful small island! I recommend spending time on both!

Is it easy to get to and around Hvar?

Yes, it’s easy to get to Hvar, especially from Split to Hvar, which is the best option. Once there, Hvar Island offers multiple modes of transport, from public to private taxi and even water taxis!

What To Do In Hvar – Final Thoughts

So, that wraps up my complete guide to Hvar Island, I hope you are now clearer on what to do in Hvar and are looking forward to planning your trip to my favourite Mediterranean island!

Whether you’re here for the boutique hotels, historic towns or dreamy day trips, Hvar Island is a place that truly captivates. From glamorous Hvar Town to quiet escapes in olive-dotted hills and scenic beach coves, it’s an island that really does have it all!

If you’re planning your trip, don’t miss my full guide to Things to Do in Hvar Town, curated Hvar Island Tours, and a roundup of the best Places to Stay on Hvar – everything you need to make your island escape unforgettable.

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Plan your Hvar Island itinerary!

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

• Booking.com for the best boutique rates
• Get Your Guide for unique day excursions
• TripAdvisor for the latest reviews
• Viator for incredible day tours
• Omio for booking Croatia ferries
• Discover Cars reliable and best rates on rental cars

Read Next!

• 15 VERY BEST Things To Do In Hvar Town Croatia!
• 6 BEST Ways To Get From Split To Hvar: A Detailed Guide!
• Uncover Hidden Gems: The Best Day Trips From Hvar Island
• Stari Grad Hvar: Why You Should Visit & Best Things To Do!
• Ultimate Guide To 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!
• Stari Grad Croatia: A Perfect Day Trip From Hvar Town
• Best Beaches On Hvar Island: Stunning Spots You’ll Love!
• A Guide To The Best Restaurants In Hvar Croatia!

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