Things to Do in Hvar Island (2026): Everything First-Time Visitors Need to Know!

Last updated on August 16th, 2026 at 11:01 am

If you’re planning your first trip to Hvar, I envy you! This Croatian Island is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Adriatic, captivating travellers from all over the world, it’s one of the few places I happily return to every summer, there’s truly no shortage of incredible things to do in Hvar Island from exploring historic harbour towns, relaxing on picturesque beaches to wandering through fragrant lavender fields and enjoying drinks on the glamorous waterfront!

Hvar old town is the main draw with it’s striking fortress and postcard-perfect coastal setting boasting a vibrant Riviera, charming stone lanes, Venetian architecture and excellent restaurants – if you’ve seen dreamy images of Hvar there likely from Hvar Town. It’s what most visitors come to experience matched only by the unbelievable location, surrounded by smaller islands and secret beaches perfect for boat trips and swimming in crystal clear turquoise waters, the scenery and viewpoints never fail to impress!

But there’s definitely a right way to explore Hvar Island and in this complete Hvar guide, I’m sharing all you need to know from when to stay, how to get around, where’s best to spend your time and more. So whether you’re visiting for a week long holiday or planning to island hop your way to Dubrovnik old town, you’ll learn what to do in Hvar alongside practical travel tips and insider advice, to help you plan the perfect trip!

When To Visit Hvar Island

Hvar’s main season runs from May to September, but the best time to travel to Hvar Island – and the other Croatia Islands is within the shoulder months mid-May to June or late-September. Ideal for warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices, especially when compared to the peak summer months of July and August (which are bursting with tourists and has a lively vibe – it depends on what island experience you’re after!).

See the best time to visit Croatia for sun, sea & fewer crowds!

How Many Days In Hvar Island

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 Hvar, Stari Grad and some of the islands most beautiful beaches. But it’s so stunning you might want to stay for at least a week and divide your time between exploring and soaking up the sun from a beautiful bay or luxury over-water lounger, which is my favourite way to spend time on the island!

(Truthfully, for a week long trip I like to stay in Split old town for two nights, then a gorgeous sea-facing boutique in Hvar Town for five nights, it’s the perfect combination!)

HOW TO GET TO HVAR ISLAND

Hvar Island is part of the Dalmatian group of islands in the Adriatic and it lies an hour from Split and the mainland of Croatia and is well connected by ferry to other islands and even has it’s own harbour in glam Hvar Town!

Flying

Split Airport is the islands nearest and most convenient airport, providing direct flights from most major European cities, EasyJet and Jet2 are the main carriers, while frequent ferries and private transfers make travel to Hvar Island from Split very easy.

(The journey time from Split Airport to the port is 35 minutes, served by buses and taxis – but most people choose to stay in historic Split for a few nights before hand, here’s my pick of the best places to stay in Split!)

Ferry

Ferry’s depart multiple times per day from Hvar Island to the mainland (Split or Dubrovnik) and the other Croatian islands Brac, Korcula and Vis, perfect for island hopping, there are many companies, summer schedules and prices, I recommend using Omio ferry to compare and book, but Split is the quickest and most convenient option to arrive directly, taking just one hour!

Car Ferry

For those travelling to Hvar Island with a car, the Jadrolinija car ferry leaves from Split port to Stari Grad six times per day, taking two and a half hours in the summer months. Book the car ferry online and register your car details.

Private Transfer

Private transfers are offered from Split and take one hour, including a private car from Split Airport to the port and a private speedboat that accommodates six people with luggage – door-to-door quick luxury service at any time – ideal for small groups and honeymooners!

Check prives and availability for the private airport or port pick-up here!

Travelling from Split? Here’s how best to travel from Split to Hvar Island!

WHERE TO STAY ON HVAR ISLAND (Best areas explained)

Choosing where to stay in Hvar can completely define your trip, for most first time visitors Hvar Town is the best area to stay in Hvar, it will give you that quintessential Hvar experience, while the surrounding coastline is dotted with peaceful bays and upscale hotels to unwind, best suited for longer and more luxurious stays. Here’s a quick breakdown of the areas:

Hvar Old Town – Best for First-Time Visitors

Hvar old town is perfect if you want to be within walking distance of Hvar’s main UNESCO highlights, restaurants, top hotels, vibrant Riva and historic streets, the atmosphere is unbeatable, best area to stay in Hvar for first-time visitors!

Hvar Town Coast – best for luxury

Hvar Town coast, offers a long scenic coastal path with small pebble beach coves, Mediterranean gardens, stunning luxury hotels and boutiques with pools, terraces and upscale beach clubs – all 10-35 minutes from Hvar Town square, great for luxury travellers!

Stari Grad – best for authentic stays

Stari Grad is an authentic town set within a quaint, historic area of traditional stone buildings, artisan shops and local culture, there’s a tranquil harbour, charming restaurants and a low-key ambiance, best for romantic couples. A 30 minute drive from Hvar Town.

Jelsa & Vbroska – best for quiet village vibes

Known as the Island’s smallest and sleepy towns in the north of Hvar, surrounded by nature, pine forests and vineyards. Jelsa has its own small harbour and restaurants, and tiny Vbroska is famed for its canals and bridges, walkers and cyclists love it!

Accommodation in Hvar Island For First-Time Visitors

If you’re visiting Hvar for the first time, these hotels are my top picks for location, style and atmosphere:

Moeesy Blue & Green Oasis – a luxury boutique hotel on Hvar Town’s beautiful coastline with stylish interiors and a wonderful sea-facing infinity pool!

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 with private balconies!

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.

For specific hotel recommendations, I’ve shared my favourite boutique and luxury stays by area in my full guide to where to stay in Hvar.

HOW TO GET AROUND HVAR ISLAND

Walking

If you’re staying in or close to Hvar old town or Stari Grad, you can easily explore the Island’s highlights, restaurants and boat tours on foot. Hvar is a very walkable place; the old town is surrounded by water and cobbled lanes that cars cannot access.

Car or Scooter

Renting or scooter – although not common place is a great way to explore the hidden coves, inland villages or nearby towns like Stari Grad and Jelsa, you can easily hit all these spots in a day! Hire and negotiation are best confirmed while in Hvar Town.

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 (a brand new concept to Hvar Island) is the only way to drive through it safely!

Taxi

Taxis are available from the main hubs – Hvar Town behind the cathedral and near the central bus stop in Stari Grad. The layout of the towns make direct hotel pick-ups near impossible, in coastal locations taxis will great you at the top of the hills.

Local Bus

The local bus runs several times per day between Hvar Town to Stari Grad – a popular day trip from Hvar (30 minutes) – if you want to stop in Jelsa or Vbroska you will connect from Stari Grad! The main bus stand is behind the cathedral in Hvar Town.

Private Boat & Water Taxi

And for an adventure? A water taxi or private boat from Hvar Town’s harbour is the best way to travel, especially if you’re heading to beautiful Pakleni Islands or exploring more Adriatic gems such as Blue Cave and Vis Island!

Here’s the top boat trips from Hvar Island – incredible island experiences you don’t want to miss!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN HVAR ISLAND CROATIA

Explore Hvar Old Town

Hvar old town is the heart of the island and the first place most visitors head to, with its marble streets, stunning Venetian architecture, cathedral and incredible Fortress looming over the entire town and beyond. Wandering its narrow lanes, historic square, and glamorous Riviera are the best things to do in Hvar Island, even if you’re short on time!

See the best things to do in Hvar old town!

Take A Boat Trip

A boat trip is the best way to experience Hvar’s picturesque coast and adject Pakleni Islands with crystal-clear coves, over-water restaurants, boutique beach clubs and lush island scenery just 10-minutes from Hvar Town – whether you’re taking a half-day, full-day or sunset trip, getting out on the water is one of the top experiences on your first visit.

Discover the unmissable boat trips from Hvar!

Relax On The Beaches

Explore Hvar Island’s stunning coastline and beaches, Hvar has many pebbly and clear water beach coves and inlets perfect for swimming and sunbathing all around the coastline, there’s natural Robinsons or Pokonji Dol Beach two of the best beaches in Hvar, close to the town or secluded bays only reachable by boat for that perfect island escape feeling!

Find your ideal beach on Hvar Island!

Enjoy A Beach Club

Spending a day at a beach club is one of the best things to do in Hvar Island, there’s a few excellent options from boho chic to luxury and they are well-organised with plush day beds, cocktails, sea views, and a wonderful atmosphere along coast from Hvar old Town and among the Pakleni Islands see my favourite beach clubs and beaches on Hvar.

Celebrate The Sunsets

Sunsets are magical in Hvar Island and you can see them from stunning viewpoints, such as Napoleon Fortress, rooftop terraces in the old town, boho beach bar Falko, lively Hula Hula and exclusive sunset boat trips, everybody gathers for these special sunset moments and they are well worth the hype, whichever venue you choose in Hvar Town!

Explore Hvar’s Villages

Exploring the island’s beautiful smaller inland villages is the best thing to do in Hvar Island from ancient Stari Grad with a authentic historic centre and relaxed harbour to sleepy Vbroska known for it’s bridges and canals to Jelsa a charming waterside village – and even an abandoned village perched high above the Adriatic – you can visit them all in one day!

Dine In Hvar’s Best Restaurants

Hvar Island boasts some wonderful places to wine and dine, from cosy Michelin-rated restaurants set within the charming old town lanes of Hvar Town to sophisticated rooftop cocktail bars and in the nearby Pakleni Islands, terraces right next to the beautiful shoreline – these experiences can be a real highlight of your trip!

Explore the best restaurants in Hvar Croatia!

Go Wine Tasting

Hvar has a long history in winemaking due to its incredible Mediterranean climate and tasting the local wine straight from the vineyards is truly one of the best things to do on Hvar Island. Spend a stylish afternoon among the lavender field and vineyards sampling home grown wines – and they are so close together you can visit more than one or join a fabulous wine tasting tour and enjoy the rolling hill scenery!

See my favourite hidden gem day trips from Hvar here!

Looking for more inspiration and unforgettable experiences from Hvar Town? From chic sail days and wine tastings to the prettiest villages and must-see viewpoints, don’t miss my full guide to the best things to do in Hvar Town.

DAY TRIPS FROM HVAR ISLAND

Hvar is perfectly placed for exploring beyond the Hvar Town and even the Island, with beautiful smaller islands, historic towns, and even Blue Lagoon and Vis Island all within easy reach. Whether you fancy a relaxing boat day or a culture-filled adventure, these are the best day trips from Hvar for first-time visitors.

Pakleni Islands

The Pakleni Islands are the small group of islands directly opposite Hvar Town – 15-25 minutes away, they offer pretty beach coves, clear water swimming, dreamy Mediterranean restaurants and boutique beach clubs like Laganini in Palmizana Bay and the best way to visit them all is by a boat trip. Private sailing trips are especially superior – and my personal favourite – one of the absolute best things to do in Hvar Island!

Discover the best Pakleni Islands Hvar & tips!

Red Rocks

Explore Hvar Islands red rocks and secluded beaches, these are the spots most visitors don’t get to see, real hidden gems that you’ll need a ATV or boat to get to, spend the day on Hvar’s most dramatic beaches or take one of the best boat trips from Hvar around coastal beaches and islands only accessible by private boat!

Stari Grad

Stari Grad is the oldest town on the island around 30 minutes drive from Hvar Town and it’s one of the best half day trips for exploring the charming lanes and squares, traditional town houses, local restaurants and authentic culture, you’ll find a more tranquil ambience and lower prices – a welcome addition to your Hvar itinerary!

See how to explore Stari Grad from Hvar Town!

Blue Cave & Vis Island

The Blue Cave and Vis Island is the most popular full-day boat tour from Hvar and one well worth doing, you can expect magical blue lights, dramatic cliff flanked beaches, authentic Croatian towns and picturesque scenery, perfect for seeing more highlights of the Adriatic!

Read my full review of the Blue Cave and Vis Island boat trip!

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!

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK ON HVAR ISLAND

Hvar Island’s food scene ranges from charming old town taverns to Michelin star restaurants along the waterfront, and stylish wine bars for the evenings – it’s more incredible than first-time visitors might expect – so here’s a simple breakdown of your foodie options!

Old Town Taverns & Hidden Gems

The old town lanes are known for housing local taverns, hidden gems (like Paradise Garden) and traditional konobas tucked away on the cobbles with charming terraces, ideal for seafood lunches, truffle pasta, Croatian dishes and atmospheric evenings!

Michelin-Star & Waterfront Restaurants

For special occasions, there are several fine-dining restaurants in Hvar overlooking the Adriatic or old town rooftops – perfect for sunset dinners with beautiful settings and tasty well-presented food – worth the splurge! (Book these restaurants in advance).

Wine Bars & Evening Drinks

Wine or cocktail bars are perfect for romantic or lively evenings in Hvar, from tucked away spots in the cobbled streets near St Stephan’s square to vibrant Riviera terraces Hvar Island has no shortage of beautiful places for a drink or three – I list my favourites in the best things to do in Hvar Town guide!

Casual Cafés & Beach Clubs

The cafes and beach clubs on Hvar Island are wonderful, synonymous with the island and the sort of places you can linger for hours and take in the picturesque surroundings with a coffee or signature cocktail right along the shoreline on a sun lounger, don’t miss Falko, great for those easy going days!

For specific recommendations, see my top restaurants in Hvar Island Croatia – where to eat, drink & relax!

HVAR TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS!

Book your hotel in advance

Hvar is the most popular Island in Croatia, and the best boutique hotels often sell out months in advance (similar to staying in hotels in Dubrovnik old town) – especially from June to September. It’s worth planning earlier than you normally would for the best choice, lower rates, and locations close to the Old Town and beaches.

See my full guide on where to stay in Hvar Island!

Explore Hvar Island earlier in the morning

Hvar Island’s main towns are best explored in the mornings, avoiding the hottest and busiest part of the day before the day trippers arrive, especially popular sights like the Spanish Fortress, St Stephan’s Square and the steep stone steps – you can wander without the crowds then relax on the beach afterwards!

Reserve boat tours and restaurants ahead in summer

For stays across summer, you should be planning ahead and reserve some of the sort after restaurants in advance, early evening time slots especially and same goes for premier boat tours with small numbers or private tours, which is one of the most popular things to do in Hvar Island!

See my favourite Hvar boat tours guide!

Carry cash and cards

Most places accept cards, but small cafés, beach bars, buses, and local bakeries still prefer cash, especially if you end up on a boat tour – you don’t want to be caught out without cash at the smaller villages!

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.

Respect the old town dress codes

Dress a little chic in the old town, you won’t see anyone walking around like they just came off the beach, definitely not in swimwear – you’ll likely get a fine!

Packing Tips For Hvar Island

• Chic sun cover-ups!
• Sun hat, sunglasses
• Dressy evening wear! 
• High SPF SPF30-50
• Thick beach towel
• Refillable water bottle
• Comfortable walking sandals/shoes 
• Swim shoes (for pebble & rocky beaches)

Is Hvar Island expensive?

Yes, Hvar is known as one of the premier Croatian Island and everything from boutique hotels with a view in Hvar Town and waterfront restaurants come with a higher price, but can you can avoid over-spending by booking accommodation in advance and and mixing high end with charming traditional taverns dotted around the authentic villages and tucked away old town squares.

Is Hvar Island Worth Visiting for First-Time Visitors?

Yes absolutely! Hvar Island is worth visiting, especially for first-time visitors to Croatia. Hvar combines dramatic coastal scenery, beautifully preserved history, vibrant beach clubs, top dining experiences and a romantic atmosphere that’s hard to beat anywhere in Europe!

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 authentic Vis Island for 2 nights, then 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!

For more Croatia island-hopping advice, here’s my full guide to the bucket list Croatian Islands!

Plan your Hvar Island itinerary!

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

• 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!
• 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

BEST THINGS TO DO IN HVAR ISLAND CROATIA: SAVE & SHARE!

Best Things To Do In Hvar Island | Pin For Later

This post contains affiliate links and I earn a small commission when you make a purchase using the link. This is at no extra cost to you and it allows the site to keep running.