Hvar - Discovering Croatia

Travelling to Hvar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hvar, a pretty good destination in Croatia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hvar and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hvar, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Croatia, here's everything to know about Hvar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hvar

Hvar is an island located off the coast of Croatia in the Adriatic Sea. It's known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, great weather, and vibrant nightlife, making it a popular destination for tourists. Hvar town is the main hub of the island, with a picturesque harbor full of yachts. The town also boasts a well-preserved historic center with ancient walls, a Renaissance-era cathedral, and a hilltop fortress with fantastic views. The island is also an important wine-growing region, producing high-quality wines from indigenous grape varieties.

What to visit in Hvar

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Hvar, Croatia, along with some information about each: 1. Hvar Fortress - Built in the 16th century, this fortress offers stunning views of the town and the sea. It costs about 50 kuna (around $8 USD) to enter and is open from 9:00am-10:00pm in summer.
2. St. Stephen's Square - Located in the heart of the town, this large square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular spot for people-watching and enjoying a drink or meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants.
3. Pakleni Islands - A group of small islands just off the coast of Hvar, these are perfect for a day trip or a relaxing boat ride. Most of the islands have secluded beaches and coves, and are great for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing.
4. Hvar Cathedral - Also known as St. Stephen's Cathedral, this impressive baroque church features beautiful interior decoration and houses important religious relics. It's free to enter and open daily from 7:00am-12:00pm and 5:00pm-8:00pm.
5. Franciscan Monastery - This monastery has a beautiful cloister and a peaceful courtyard, and also houses a small museum with some interesting historical exhibits. Admission is 25 kuna (around $4 USD) and it's open daily from 10:00am-5:00pm.
6. Hvar Town Arsenal - Once used for storing military equipment, this building now houses a cultural center and is a popular venue for concerts and events. It's free to enter and open from 7:00am-12:00pm and 5:00pm-8:00pm.
7. Lavender Fields - Hvar is known for its lavender fields, which bloom in the summer months and fill the air with their sweet scent. The fields are mostly located in the interior parts of the island and can be visited on a guided tour.
8. Dive Centers - Hvar is also a popular spot for diving, with crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life. There are several dive centers in town that offer courses and guided dives for all levels of experience.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Croatia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Hvar.

When to go on holiday to Hvar

The best time to visit Hvar is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and outdoor activities. July and August are the busiest months with plenty of events, festivals and a buzzing nightlife scene. Shoulder seasons of May and October can also be pleasant with fewer crowds and lower prices, though the sea may be a bit chilly for swimming.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hvar

There are a few ways to get to Hvar, Croatia: 1. By Ferry: You can take a ferry from Split to Hvar, which is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach the island. The ferry journey takes around 1.5 hours, and there are frequent departures throughout the day in summer.
2. By Catamaran: You can also take a catamaran from Split to Hvar, which is a faster way to reach the island. The journey takes around 1 hour and there are multiple departures throughout the day.
3. By Private Transfer: Another option is to hire a private transfer from Split to Hvar, which is more expensive but also more comfortable and convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage.
4. By Car: You can also reach Hvar by car, but keep in mind that you need to take a ferry from the mainland to the island, which means that you will need to park your car at the ferry port.
Overall, the best way to get to Hvar depends on your preferences, budget and travel time.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hvar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hvar

Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Hvar, Croatia with a short description for each of them: 1. Black risotto (Crni rižot) - This is a squid ink risotto that is a specialty of Dalmatian cuisine. It gets its black color from the squid ink and is typically flavored with onion, garlic, and red wine.
2. Grilled fish (Pecena riba) - As Hvar is located on the coast, seafood is very popular here. Grilled fish is a simple and delicious dish that is often served with olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs.
3. Peka - This is a traditional Dalmatian meat dish that is slow-cooked under an iron bell. The meat (usually lamb or veal) is combined with vegetables like potatoes, onions, and bell peppers, and flavored with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
4. Hvarska Gregada - This is a fish stew that originated in Hvar. It's made with a mix of different types of fish (like gurnard, conger eel, and monkfish) and is flavored with vegetables like potatoes, onions, and carrots.
5. Fritule - These are small doughnuts that are usually served as a dessert. They're made with flour, eggs, sugar, and raisins, and are typically dusted with powdered sugar.
6. Hvar's cheese (Hvarski sir) - This is a type of hard cheese that is made on the island of Hvar. It has a strong, salty flavor and is typically served as an appetizer or snack.
7. Olive oil (Maslinovo ulje) - Hvar is known for producing some of the best olive oil in the world. The oil is made from local olives and has a fruity, peppery flavor. It's often used as a condiment or for cooking. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Croatia here.

Is Hvar an expensive destination for tourists?

Hvar is definitely one of the more expensive destinations in Croatia, especially during the peak tourist season, which is from June to September. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can be quite high, especially in the old town area. However, there are ways to save money if you plan ahead and do some research. For example, staying in a hostel or renting an apartment can be more affordable than booking a hotel room, and buying groceries and cooking your own meals can also help you save money. Additionally, visiting during the shoulder season (late April to early June or late September to early October) can also help you save money and avoid crowds.

Where to find accomodation in Hvar

Hvar Town is the most popular area to stay on the island of Hvar, as it has a dense concentration of restaurants, cafes, bars and interesting sights. Stari Grad and Jelsa are two other towns that are also worth considering as they offer a more laid-back atmosphere and are closer to the island's quieter beaches. If you're looking for a more secluded experience, consider renting a villa or apartment on the southern coast of the island, away from the crowds.
You can check hotel prices at Hvar here:
Booking.com

Is Hvar a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Hvar, Croatia is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take precautionary measures to ensure personal safety, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure. It is also important to follow local laws and customs. Hvar is a popular tourist destination, and the local authorities take measures to ensure the safety of visitors. Overall, as long as you use common sense and take necessary precautions, your trip to Hvar should be enjoyable and safe.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Croatia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hvar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hvar the most?

Hvar, Croatia is a great place for all types of travelers! Couples will love the romantic atmosphere of the island with its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets. They can also enjoy walking hand-in-hand through the charming old town and enjoying a candlelit dinner.
Young people looking for fun will be thrilled with Hvar's vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs offering the latest music and great drinks. The island also offers a range of activities such as water sports and boat trips.
Families will enjoy Hvar's relaxed atmosphere, family-friendly beaches, and scenic walks. The island also offers a range of restaurants serving fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine that all family members can enjoy.
Overall, Hvar is a great destination for all types of travelers, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

How to get around Hvar

The most popular transportation options for getting around Hvar, Croatia are walking, biking, and taking taxis. You can also rent cars, scooters, or boats if you prefer to have your own transportation. However, keep in mind that the streets in Hvar town are very narrow and can be challenging for driving. Additionally, during the summer months, the island can become very crowded, which can make driving and parking difficult.

What to see around Hvar

Here are some suggestions for day trips from Hvar, Croatia: 1. Pakleni Islands - beautiful islands near Hvar with crystal clear water and secluded beaches 2. Brač Island - known for its gorgeous beaches, authentic fishing villages, and beautiful landscape 3. Korčula Island - one of the most picturesque towns in Croatia with medieval walls, quaint streets, and beautiful beaches 4. Vis Island - a quiet and charming island with beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vineyards 5. Blue Cave - located on the island of Biševo, this natural wonder features a unique blue glow in its interior 6. Krka National Park - home to stunning waterfalls, beautiful lakes, and spectacular landscapes. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Croatia you can click here.

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