When you visit Hvar, Croatia, you're entering a realm where history, culture, and natural beauty seamlessly blend. Envision strolling along the scenic Riva promenade, investigating the medieval Spanjola Fortress, or wandering through the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain. Visualize yourself savoring exquisite local wines at the island's renowned vineyards and wineries, like Tomic. But that's just the beginning; Hvar's vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, and opportunities for sailing the pristine Pakleni Islands promise even more memorable experiences. So, what should be your first stop in this Adriatic paradise?
Key Takeaways
- Stroll Hvar Town's scenic Riva promenade and visit the 15th-century Hvar Cathedral.
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain and tour Tvrdalj Castle in StariGrad.
- Swim, snorkel, and relax on Hvar's beautiful beaches like Pokonji Dol and Uvala Dubovica.
- Sample local Mediterranean cuisine and wines at traditional konoba and renowned wineries.
- Experience Hvar's vibrant nightlife at popular bars and clubs along the Riva waterfront.
Explore Hvar Town
Start your visit to Hvar by strolling along the scenic Riva promenade, the bustling main waterfront of Hvar Town. This picturesque area is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Next, visit the 15th-century Hvar Cathedral and its stunning bell tower, showcasing Venetian Renaissance architecture. Then, take a short walk to the Franciscan Monastery, where you can admire its beautiful Renaissance cloister situated along the waterfront.
For a dose of history and breathtaking vistas, tour the medieval Spanjola Fortress, also known as the Hvar Spanish Fortress. From there, enjoy panoramic outlooks of the town and surrounding islands.
Lastly, wander through Hvar Town's well-preserved historic center to appreciate its architectural beauty and charm.
Visit Stari Grad
When you visit Stari Grad, you'll find yourself surrounded by historic landmarks, including the well-preserved Tvrdalj Castle.
Don't miss the Stari Grad Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich heritage.
After traversing, savor the local Mediterranean cuisine at one of the charming cafes or restaurants.
Explore Historic Landmarks
Discover the charm of Stari Grad, the oldest town in Croatia, where ancient history meets vibrant modern culture. Founded by ancient Greek settlers in 384 BC, this town offers a unique glimpse into the past.
Wander through the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain, an agricultural landscape that has been cultivated for over 24 centuries.
Don't miss Tvrdalj Castle, the summer residence of 16th-century poet Petar Hektorović, featuring a fish pond and lush gardens.
Stroll down Srinjo and Duolnjo Kolo Streets, lined with souvenir shops, gourmet stores, and inviting cafes.
For a taste of local Dalmatian cuisine, visit Antika and Jurin Podrum, two highly recommended restaurants that promise an authentic dining experience.
Stari Grad Museum
After traversing the historic streets and landmarks of Stari Grad, step into the Stari Grad Museum to uncover more of the town's ancient secrets.
Housed in the neo-Renaissance Bianchini Palace, the museum showcases artifacts from the Greek and Roman eras. You'll find treasures like archaeological finds from the Greek settlement in 384 BC and remnants of a Roman shipwreck.
The collection also includes historical documents and cultural items that highlight Stari Grad's development over centuries.
Don't miss learning about the Stari Grad Plain, an ancient Greek field division system now recognized as a UNESCO Global Heritage Site.
Local Mediterranean Cuisine
Savoring the local Mediterranean cuisine in Stari Grad offers an authentic taste of Croatia's culinary heritage. You'll find numerous konoba (traditional taverns) serving classic dishes like gregada (fish stew), peka (baked meat and vegetables), and soparnik (chard pie). Stari Grad is also known for its renowned wines and olive oils, which you can sample at places like Luviji Winery and Croativity shop. For a truly local experience, visit the Stari Grad Farmers' Market to purchase fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods. Highly recommended restaurants, such as Antika and Jurin Podrum, offer authentic Dalmatian cuisine made with ingredients sourced from the surrounding Stari Grad Plain.
| Place | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Konoba | Gregada, Peka, Soparnik |
| Luviji Winery | Renowned Wines |
| Croativity Shop | Olive Oils |
| Farmers' Market | Fresh Produce, Cheeses, Artisanal Goods |
Discover Beautiful Beaches
Hvar's stunning beaches offer a perfect blend of crystal-clear waters and picturesque pebbled shores.
Start your beach adventure at Pokonji Dol, the largest pebble beach just a mile from Hvar Town, ideal for swimming.
For a tranquil escape, visit Uvala Dubovica, a serene cove five miles away.
The Pakleni Islands, a chain of small islets opposite Hvar Town, provide excellent snorkeling opportunities with their pristine waters.
For a more secluded experience, head to Zarace Beach on Hvar's southern side.
Lastly, don't miss Mala Stiniva, a hidden pebble beach surrounded by high cliffs, accessible only by boat or hiking.
Each beach offers its own unique charm, making Hvar a beach lover's paradise.
Tour Vineyards and Wineries
Once you've soaked in the sun and surf at Hvar's stunning beaches, it's time to savor the island's rich winemaking heritage by touring its renowned vineyards and wineries.
Croatian wines, including those from Hvar, are among the globe's best, with a tradition dating back 2,500 years. Visit the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain, home to the island's oldest continuously cultivated vineyards. Here, you'll find native grape varieties thriving.
A must-visit is Tomic, a family-run winery producing impressive wines from indigenous grapes. Hvar's sunny microclimate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for viticulture. On your tour, you'll sample locally produced wines and learn about traditional production methods, appreciating why Hvar's wines are among Croatia's finest.
Sail the Pakleni Islands
When you sail the Pakleni Islands, you'll find yourself traversing through scenic routes that showcase the archipelago's natural beauty.
These routes lead to hidden beach gems where you can anchor and enjoy pristine, secluded spots.
Whether you join a guided tour or rent a small boat, the islands promise an unforgettable adventure.
Scenic Sailing Routes
Set sail on a thrilling sailing adventure through the Pakleni Islands, where you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, and kayak in crystal-clear turquoise waters. These scenic routes are perfect for uncovering hidden bays and beaches. Rent a small, easy-to-operate boat with a 5hp engine and enjoy a hassle-free day. Make sure to bring food, water, and beverages. You'll need a boat license, and you'll receive a lesson on operating the boat. Always be cautious of the propeller and anchor, as they are not insured. For a guided experience, join a half-day yacht trip with an experienced crew.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Swimming | Crystal-clear turquoise waters |
| Snorkeling | Investigate underwater beauty |
| Paddleboarding | Calm, scenic routes |
| Kayaking | Reveal hidden bays |
Hidden Beach Gems
Reveal the hidden beach treasures of the Pakleni Islands by traversing their scenic archipelago, where secluded coves and unspoiled beaches await your investigation. Take a boat tour with an experienced crew to survey the stunning islands, offering opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the crystal-clear turquoise waters.
For a more independent adventure, rent a small boat with a 5hp engine and uncover the hidden bays at your own pace.
Snorkel in the vibrant marine life: Immerse yourself in the underwater realm teeming with colorful fish.
Relax on pristine beaches: Unwind on secluded sandy shores.
Paddleboard through calm waters: Glide peacefully over turquoise waves.
Island hop with essentials: Pack food and drinks for a day of exploration.
Experience the Nightlife
Immerse yourself in Hvar Town's vibrant nightlife, where the waterfront promenade, Riva, buzzes with energy and glamour.
From June to September, the town never sleeps, attracting the rich and famous to its lively bars and ultra-luxurious nightclubs.
Carpe Diem, one of Croatia's glitziest coastal bars, requires reservations in August and includes resident DJs spinning house music.
The Riva is lined with numerous establishments that cater to various tastes, offering everything from casual vibes to upscale experiences.
Hvar's nightlife scene is internationally renowned, drawing a glamorous and well-heeled clientele who flock to its vibrant summer party atmosphere.
Whether you're seeking a laid-back evening or an all-night dance party, Hvar Town has it all.
Hike St. Nicholas Peak
After a night of revelry, balance your adventures by setting off on a hike to St. Nicholas Peak, Hvar's highest point.
Standing at 1,831 meters (6,007 feet), this peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Adriatic Sea. The 4-5 hour hike is moderate to challenging, with some steep and rocky sections, but the effort is well worth it.
On your journey, you'll encounter:
Fragrant lavender fields that fill the air with soothing scents.
Diverse Mediterranean scrubland teeming with unique flora and fauna.
The occasional wild goat, adding a touch of wilderness.
Unparalleled vistas of Hvar, the Pakleni Islands, and neighboring islands like Brač and Vis.
Visit Historical Sites
Traversing Hvar's historical sites offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Start your journey at the 15th-century Franciscan Monastery on the waterfront, where you'll find an elegant Renaissance cloister and a small museum. Head to the Spanjola Fortress, constructed in the 13th century, for stunning panoramic views of Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands. Don't miss the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain, an agricultural landscape unchanged since 384 BC, best discovered by bicycle. Lastly, visit Tvrdalj Castle, the summer residence of Croatian poet Petar Hektorović, featuring a cloistered Renaissance courtyard, and the 15th-century St. Stephen's Cathedral in Hvar Town, showcasing Venetian architecture.
| Historical Site | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Franciscan Monastery | Renaissance cloister, small museum |
| Spanjola Fortress | Panoramic views, historic structure |
| Stari Grad Plain | UNESCO site, discover by bicycle |
| Tvrdalj Castle | Poet's residence, Renaissance courtyard |
Enjoy Local Cuisine
Sampling Hvar's local cuisine offers a delightful way to experience the island's rich culinary traditions.
Gregada, a traditional fish stew, can be enjoyed at the 15th-century palace restaurant Giaxa.
For classic Dalmatian dishes like lamb and white fish prepared over an open flame, visit Konoba Humac in the deserted hamlet of Humac.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Nonica Bakery in Hvar Town with homemade cakes and local favorites like Hforski kolač.
Don't miss Tri Puta (Three Hams) wine bar in Hvar Town, boasting over 1,000 Croatian wines; pair a glass of Zlatan Plavac Grand Cru with local sheep's cheese.
