If you’ve decided to visit Hvar Island, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Things to do on Hvar Island are plentiful, whether visiting Hvar for a day or longer.
Hvar is among Croatia’s most renowned and frequently visited islands, offering various activities, attractions, day trips, enticing destinations, and captivating stories waiting to be unraveled.
As you explore the hidden corners of Hvar Island and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture, you will discover that there is always something new to experience and see in Hvar.

Hvar Island boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern conveniences, making it among the most popular destinations in Croatia.
From the ancient colony of Pharos to the medieval fortresses and charming villages, every corner of the island has a fascinating story to tell. Hvar offers a wide range of activities, making it an ideal destination for all travelers. Whether you’re looking to relax on the stunning beaches, explore the picturesque villages, or enjoy the lively nightlife, there is something for everyone on Hvar.
Let’s dive in and discover the best things to do on Hvar Island!
What's Inside
What to do In Hvar Island
Hvar is home to stunning beaches, while its wilderness emanates the delightful fragrances of the Mediterranean. Additionally, the island is steeped in history and culture, awaiting discovery, within the ancient town cores of smaller settlements like Vrboska, Jelsa, and Stari Grad.
For this reason, when you find yourself having explored the attractions of Hvar town, such as the beautiful Pakleni Islands, the Spanjola Fortress, the historic Hvar theater, the St. Stephen Cathedral, among others, it’s time to set your sights towards the island’s countless additional attractions.
Visit the Stari Grad Plains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or journey to the pastoral settlement of Humac or the abandoned village of Malo Grablje within Hvar’s interior.
Immerse yourself in the charm of Vrboska, known also as a small Venice, or wander through the cobblestone streets of Stari Grad.
Alternatively, enjoy the beautiful vineyards and the breathtaking landscapes and taste Hvar wines, oils, and other local delicacies. Whatever your preferences, there’s something for everyone on Hvar Island.
Beyond its natural and cultural treasures, Hvar offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs. With its Mediterranean climate and fertile land, Hvar is known for its healthy cuisine based on fresh local ingredients.
We have compiled a list of our top 25 recommended activities in Hvar.
1. Explore Hvar’s Beaches
Stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters are major draws of Hvar Island. With numerous beaches dotted around the island, you can spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the turquoise sea, or simply enjoying a stroll along the shore.
Some of our top recommended beaches on Hvar Island are listed below.
- Pokonji Dol: Within walking distance from Hvar Town, this pebble beach offers stunning views of the Pakleni Islands.
- Zarace Beach: Located on the island’s southern side, this secluded pebble beach offers stunning views and crystal-clear waters.
- Dubovica Beach: Located in an uninhabited bay, a short drive from Hvar Town, this lovely pebble beach attracts many tourists and locals alike.
- Lucisca Beach: This hidden gem is surrounded by high cliffs and can only be accessed by boat or a hiking trail.
- Mala Stiniva: Situated in a secluded bay, this pebble beach is known for its calm and shallow waters.
2. Tour the Island’s Hidden Gems
Hvar Town and its surrounding beaches are undeniably beautiful, but the island has much more to offer beyond its coastal areas.

Explore Hvar’s lesser-known interior villages for an authentic island experience away from the hustle and bustle. In these small villages on Hvar Island, locals cultivate fresh produce, make cheese and charcuterie, and grow olives, grapes, and herbs. Hvar’s interior and remote coastal areas are a true Mediterranean paradise of unspoiled landscapes, fragrant fields, and hidden coves with turquoise waters.
Visiting the small villages in Hvar’s interior offers a glimpse into a traditional Dalmatian lifestyle that you won’t find anywhere else on the island.
Don’t miss these must-visit places listed below!
- Humac: A restored eco-ethno village with stunning views.
- Velo Grablje: Once the hub of lavender production, it is now a charming mountain village with one of the finest taverns on Hvar.
- Malo Grablje: An abandoned village with panoramic vistas, no permanent residents, and two taverns.
- Brusje: A tranquil getaway with typical rural architecture and the last lavender fields on Hvar.
- Pitve: A preserved village with a famed tunnel connecting it to Hvar’s southern shores.
- Vrisnik: Experience traditional island life and enjoy homemade food at Konoba Vrisnik, one of the best places to eat on Hvar Island.
- Svirce and Vrbanj: Two villages set among olive groves and vineyards, perfect for olive oil and wine tasting.
- Sveta Nedjelja, Zavala, and Ivan Dolac: Coastal villages with stunning surroundings.
Rent a car or scooter, or join a tour to discover Hvar’s hidden treasures. A self-guided tour can cover all the villages in a day. Start from Hvar Town, pass through Brusje and Velo Grablje, visit Stari Grad, then continue to Vrbanj, Svirce, Vrisnik, Pitve, and finally Sveta Nedjelja, Zavala, and Ivan Dolac. Combine the tour with wine tasting or beach hopping for an unforgettable experience.
3. Visit Stari Grad – The Oldest Town on Hvar Island
Stari Grad, meaning “Old Town” in Croatian, is the oldest settlement on the island and one of Europe’s oldest towns. Founded by Greek colonists from Paros in 384 BC, it is now a charming seaside town with a rich cultural heritage.

Stari Grad’s old town has narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings and squares, ancient Roman ruins, medieval churches, and Renaissance palaces.
Don’t miss Tvrdalj Castle, once a summer residence of the 16th-century Croatian poet Petar Hektorović.
Srinjo and Duolnjo Kolo Streets are home to souvenir shops, gourmet stores, and cafes. Grab lunch at Antika or try Jurin Podrum for hearty local stews. For local souvenirs, visit Croativity or Za Pod Zub Deli for a selection of locally sourced products.
Don’t forget to explore the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an agricultural landscape cultivated for over 24 centuries.
You can explore Stari Grad on your own, or join this guided walking tour of Stari Grad.
4. Visit the Stari Grad Plain
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Stari Grad Plain is a must-visit for history and nature lovers. This agricultural landscape has remained virtually unchanged since the Greeks first colonized it in 384 BC. It is a large agricultural area divided into smaller plots surrounded by dry-stone walls. We found it fascinating, particularly because the fields are still cultivated today.
We visited the Stari Grad Plains on a guided tour by van, but the best way to explore the site is by electric or regular bicycle from Stari Grad. The site is situated just a short distance from the center of Stari Grad and extends over a fairly large area, almost reaching the neighboring towns of Jelsa and Vrboska.
If you plan to visit in the summer, it’s best to do so early in the morning or late afternoon as it gets very hot and there are no shelters. Consider bringing a picnic or stopping at Hora Hvar for delicious farm-to-table food.
5. Taste Hvar’s Best Wines
Hvar is famous for its wine production, with a long winemaking tradition dating back to ancient times. Today, the island boasts award-winning wineries offering tastings and tours. Below are the wineries we visited.
- Winery “Lacman“, Stari Grad: Known for natural wines and stunning views above Stari Grad
- “Caric” Winery, Vrboska: Renowned for its inviting tasting room and exceptional hospitality in Vrboska.
- “Luviji” Winery, Hvar Town: Offers an authentic wine-tasting experience near Hvar Town’s center. Book a wine-tasting tour including a typical Dalmatian dinner!
- “Dubokovic” Winery, Jelsa: Makes some of Hvar’s most exceptional wines, like Dubokovic Medvid and Prvi Poljubac.
- “Plancic Brothers” Winery, Vrbanj: One of the best-known and most popular winemakers on Hvar, it offers a variety of white and red wines, including Ager Reserva and Pharos Grand Cru.
- “Tomic” Winery: Must-visit for high-quality red wines in Jelsa, also famous for sage and carob liquor, and dessert wine Prosek Hectorovich.
Other popular wineries on the island include Zlatan Otok in Sveta Nedjelja, PZ Svirče Cooperative in Jelsa, Ventus Winery in Vrisnik, Colnago on Pakleni Islands, Tonci Marjan in Pitve, and Matijevic Family Winery in Jagodna.
Try local white grape varieties like Pošip, Bogdanuša, and the red grape variety Plavac Mali. Don’t miss the dessert wine, Prosek, which is typical of Dalmatia.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or seeking a unique experience, visiting Hvar’s wineries is a must-do. Your taste buds will thank you!
6. Sample Olive Oils at Bozic Family Olive Oil Farm
Visit the Bozic Family Olive Oil Farm in Hvar for high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil tastings and tours. The family grows olives in three areas on the island: near Brusje, in the Stari Grad plain, and in the village of Svirce, where the mill and the tasting room are located.
Learn about the traditional methods and different olive varieties during the tour and sample award-winning olive oils, including the signature blend Selekcija and three monovarietal olive oils. Available for purchase, their oils come in 0.1L, 0.25L, 0.5L, and 0.75L bottles. Prices range from €6 to €20. Bozic Olive Oil is an original, affordable souvenir packaged in small bottles, light and easy to carry in your luggage.
Contacts | a: Svirce bb, Village Svirce (Vrbanj) | m: + 385 91 523 6003
7. Eat Local
Hvar is famous for its healthy cuisine using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, with traditional dishes like Gregada, a fish stew made with various fish, crabs, and potatoes. Other popular dishes include cuttlefish and broad bean stew, tripe, meat or octopus roast (peka), baby beef or tuna stew with gnocchi (pasticada), black risotto, grilled fish and meat, crab or shellfish stew (buzara), and spicy fish stew (brudet).

Desserts like carob cake, black pepper cookies, dried fig cake, orange peels, lavender cheesecake, and candied almonds are also a must-try.
For an authentic taste of Hvar’s cuisine, visit establishments like the “Kokot Tavern” in Dol (boar specialties), the “Vrisnik Tavern“, the “Davor” restaurant in Zavala (Pitovska cake), the Zbondini Tavern in Velo Grablje (Lavander Cheesecake), the “Kod Kucere” farm (homemade goat cheese), and the “Menego” tavern and “Dva Ribara” restaurant in Hvar town. There are numerous other exceptional dining options on the island of Hvar, but we will leave that for another article.
8. Go For Something Sweet
When you visit Hvar Island, make sure to try the delicious traditional and modern desserts at pastry shops and restaurants. Hvar Town offers a delightful variety of cakes that locals and tourists love. Here are our favorite pastry shops and ice cream parlors in Hvar!

“Pastry Shop Sweets” in Hvar’s town center serves exquisite cakes, croissants, and exceptional coffees. Don’t miss their signature Lavander Cheese Cake!
Another local favorite is “Nonica“, a pastry shop with a selection of traditional Hvar cakes and cookies, including honey, anise, and fig cookies.
For a small and charming pastry shop, head to “Glod” in Hvar. Julia, the owner, creates amazing cakes using local and organic ingredients. Their almond croissants and coffee are must-tries.
“Kava 37” is a trendy café bar in Hvar where you can enjoy specialty coffee and fantastic cookies. Don’t miss their popular vanilla and caramel latte and filter-brewed coffee. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere complete the experience.
If you’re an ice cream lover, don’t miss “Aroma“. Their Italian-style gelato is made with 100% natural and local ingredients, and it’s available in various flavors.
9. Fine Dine With a View at Alavia in Velo Grablje
For a unique culinary experience with a stunning view, visit the charming village of Velo Grablje and dine at “Alavia”. This lovely restaurant uses fresh and local ingredients to serve traditional Dalmatian cuisine with a modern twist. It is one of our favorite places to eat on Hvar.
Alavia’s menu changes seasonally based on ingredient availability, but some all-time favorites, including spicy fish stew, slow-braised oxtail, lamb dishes, and grilled octopus, are always on the menu. Save room for their homemade baklava with lavender ice cream. It’s a must-try!
What sets Alavia apart is its location on a hilltop overlooking the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands, offering breathtaking views while you dine.
Besides delicious food and stunning views, Alavia offers a selection of local wines to complement your experience. For a special dining experience in Hvar, make sure to reserve a table at Alavia. And don’t forget your camera – the views are unforgettable!
10. Hike to the Top of St. Nicholas Peak
Hiking to the top of St. Nicholas Peak is a must-do activity on Hvar Island. Sveti Nikola is the highest peak on Hvar and the third highest among Croatian islands.
The shortest yet steepest route to reach the summit is from Sveta Nedjelja. The other two hiking trails go from Svirce and Dol.
The hike from Sveta Nedjelja leads through the scenic vineyards of Plavac Mali and, further up, by the Sveta Nedjelja Cave, which houses an abandoned monastery and a small church built by Augustinians in the 15th century.
From there, a climb leads to the plateau that offers 360 views of the Brac and Solta Islands, the mainland on one side, and Šćedro, Korčula, and Vis islands and the Pelješac peninsula on the other side. From there, the path turns to the right towards the very top of St. Nikola.
The trail is relatively well-marked and easy to follow, but wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. If you decide to climb during the summer, make sure to do it very early in the morning to avoid heat.
The ascend takes about 2 hours, depending on how often you stop to admire the views or explore along the way.
11. Climb Via Ferrata to Explore the Island’s Cliffs
For a more thrilling adventure, try reaching the top of Sveti Nikola by climbing Via Ferrata, a protected climbing route that leads you through the island’s cliffs using cables, steel ladders, and a bridge. The climb starts just outside Sveta Nedjelja, and you can rent safety gear from Cliffbase near the parking.
The Via Ferrata suits beginners and experienced climbers since the routes vary in difficulty. It is 250 m long, and the return trip to the top and back takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend enjoying the views and the surroundings. Donations of 7 € per person are encouraged, and you will find a box for donations at the entrance of the suspension bridge.
The first path of Via Ferrata is known as Via Mirko, and it is a vertical ascend with steel steps and steel ropes. It is only suitable for experienced climbers due to its practically vertical wall. The second path, Via Avalon, starts above Via Mirko, offering a gentler ascend. Finally, the third path, Via Barbara, is mainly moderate terrain with steel cables installed on two smaller sections of the ascend.
All paths lead to the most exciting part of Hvar’s Via Ferrata, a 30-meter-long suspension bridge hanging over 80 m high cliffs. The Via Ferrata ends on a plateau, from where you can take a hiking trail to the top of St. Nicolas.
The descent is through the marked hiking trail described earlier, and on the way down, you can stop at the Sveta Nedjelja Cave. You will also enjoy lovely views as you descend.
12. Take a Boat Tour to Red Rocks
A boat tour to the Red Rocks is a must-do activity on Hvar Island. These unique natural rock formations near the town of Hvar are known for their vibrant red color, which creates a stunning contrast against the sea. The area is rich in marine life, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff diving.
The easiest way to visit the Red Rocks is by taking a guided boat tour from Hvar town to Red Rocks. The tour, lasting 5 to 7 hours, includes stops at beautiful nearby coves and beaches like Dubovica Beach and Lucisca Beach, allowing you to take amazing photos and enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea.
However, if you prefer privacy, you can rent a motorboat or kayak and paddle your way to Red Rocks before 10 am or after 4 pm when fewer people and boats are around. The late afternoon visit is especially interesting as the colors intensify during sunset.
Visiting Red Rocks is one of the must-do activities on Hvar Island!
13. Experience Hvar’s Vibrant Nightlife
Hvar is renowned for its vibrant nightlife with various bars, beach clubs, and restaurants. Hvar Town’s main square is the nightlife hub, offering everything from casual bars to high-end clubs. Popular spots are listed below.
- Central Park Club offers Live music, finger food, an extensive cocktail menu, and a relaxed vibe.
- Ka’Lavanda has a charming outdoor terrace with a view of the Cathedral, a great atmosphere, good music, and well-crafted drinks.
- Despite its small size, Kiva Bar is a lively spot on Hvar Island with great music, drinks, and a dance floor.
- Carpe Diem Bar is an Ibiza-style bar on the seafront with music, dancing, and midnight fireworks.
- Carpe Diem Beach Club is an open-air club on the Pakleni Islands, accessible only by boat, with various dance floors and world-famous DJs during summer.
- Hula Hula Beach Bar is a popular spot on a small pebble beach, a 15-minute walk from Hvar Town, playing a mix of house music and top hits.
Hvar is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, but unfortunately, it has also received criticism due to the large number of young, intoxicated people on its streets who sometimes behave inappropriately. So, please remember to respect the place, landmarks, residents, and other tourists while having fun.
14. Enjoy Sunset Drink
If you’re planning a trip to Hvar, watching the sunset is an activity you can’t miss. The island boasts some of the most beautiful sunset views in the world, and what better way to enjoy them than with a drink in hand?

Many bars and restaurants offer stunning views of the sunset, but the Falko Beach Bar is the best spot to watch the sunset in Hvar. This bar is located on the tip of a small peninsula and offers the perfect setting to watch the sun go down. Grab a cocktail, relax on one of the lounge chairs or hammocks, and take in the breathtaking views.
The Hula Hula Beach Bar is a popular choice if you’re looking for a livelier spot. Located in a perfect spot that offers panoramic views of Hvar’s coastline and sunset, this beach bar turns up the music and starts the party as the sun sets. However, if you prefer a quieter experience, Falko is the place to be!
15. Spend a Day Exploring the Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are a group of small islets near Hvar Town known for their pristine waters, hidden coves, rocky and pebbly beaches, and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy amenities like restaurants, beach bars, marinas, and anchorage points. You can rent a small boat up to 5 HP without a license in Hvar to visit the islands.

We suggest starting from Jerolim Island, the closest island to the mainland, known for its nudist beach and tranquility. From there, head to Markovac Island, the location of the famous Carpe Diem Beach Club and Antonio Patak restaurant. Finally, explore the largest and most famous of the Pakleni Islands, Sveti Klement, which offers a variety of amenities, including the Meneghello family arboretum, Zori Timeless restaurant, remains of a Roman villa, Colnago winery, and various restaurants and beach clubs.
If you’re short on time, take a water taxi straight to Sveti Klement. It is the biggest of all islands and offers a little bit of everything, making it a good place to experience Pakleni Islands for the first time.
16. Take A Boat Tour To Blue and Green Caves
The Blue and Green Caves are two of Croatia’s most stunning natural wonders, accessible via boat from Hvar. The Blue Cave is located on the island of Biševo, and the Green Cave is on the islet of Ravnik.
The Blue Cave, or Modra špilja, features crystal-clear blue water and an enchanting atmosphere, while the Green Cave, Zelena špilja, has emerald green water and allows visitors to swim inside.
Boat tours often include stops at other beautiful spots, like Stiniva Beach and Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island. Whether you join a group tour or rent a private boat, don’t miss out on experiencing the natural beauty of Croatia by visiting these caves! Add a boat tour to Blue and Green Caves to your list of things to do in Hvar Croatia!
17. Climb to the Spanjola Fortress for the Views
The Spanjola Fortress is one of the must-see attractions in Hvar! This 16th-century Spanjola fortress, or as locals call it, Fortica, is situated atop a hill overlooking the town of Hvar and the surrounding islands. Inside the fortress, you can find canons and a small museum. Additionally, there is a café where you can enjoy a drink or snack while soaking in the breathtaking views. The Fortress is also a popular spot for watching the sunset over Hvar.

Visiting the Spanjola Fortress is an excellent way to learn about Hvar’s history while enjoying some of the best views on the island.
The climb to the fortress is relatively easy, beginning with stairs from the old town and transitioning into a gentle slope leading to the fortress. The entrance ticket costs 10€, and the magnificent vistas from within are worth the price. However, if you’re on a budget, you can still enjoy some scenic views from the fort’s south side on the outside. Nevertheless, the views from inside are better.
17. Watch the World Go By at St. Stephen Square
Hvar’s main square, St. Stephen Square or Trg Svetog Stjepana in Croatian, is the heart of the town and a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike. It is surrounded by charming restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great spot to people-watch while sipping coffee or enjoying local delicacies.
The square is also home to the Cathedral of St. Stephen, a beautiful 16th-century Baroque church with a distinctive bell tower that offers stunning views of Hvar town and the surrounding islands.
Whether you visit during the day or at night, when it comes alive with street performers and live music, St. Stephen Square is definitely worth a visit. It’s the perfect place to soak up the lively atmosphere of Hvar and get a feel for the local culture. So don’t forget to add it to your list of things to do in Hvar.
18. Get Cultural
Hvar, a small town, comes alive in summer, attracting tourists for its beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. But it’s also rich in cultural heritage. When you visit, take time to explore its historical treasures and delve into its captivating history.
The Arsenal building, reconstructed in 1607, hosts various cultural and social events, and it houses the Hvar Theatre, one of Europe’s oldest theaters, and the Gallery of Contemporary Art. When visiting the Arsenal and the Theater, you can partake in a virtual reality experience transporting you back to Hvar’s ancient times.

The Rennaisance St. Stephen’s Cathedral, built in the 16th century, is a magnificent architectural masterpiece with Baroque and Gothic elements in its interior. The Clock Tower and Venetian Loggia are the only remains of the former Rector’s Palace. They feature a clock installed in 1466 and a bell with religious motifs from 1564.
All sites are close to each other and can be explored quickly. You can purchase a combined ticket for all sites for only €15 ($16.50, £13), with an additional €2 ($2.20, £1.70) to enter the Cathedral.
19. Visit Franciscan Monastery and Benedictine Convent
Apart from its historic landmarks, Hvar boasts a rich spiritual and religious culture. The Franciscan Monastery, founded in 1461, houses a small chapel dating back to the 13th century. The seafront complex includes the monastery, Our Lady of Mercy church, a small chapel, and a garden. Master Radovan, a renowned architect and sculptor, built the beautiful Renaissance cloister with arches. The monastery features a library, museum, and original artwork like Matteo Ingolir’s large Last Supper painting.
Nearby, the Benedictine Convent, founded in 1664, is located in a Renaissance palace and houses the baroque church of St. Antony, a small museum, and a gift shop. The resident nuns make agave lace, a unique and delicate art form that has made it to the Unesco list of intangible cultural heritage.
Self-guided tours are available for the Franciscan Monastery and the Benedictine Convent, offering insights into Hvar’s cultural heritage. Entrance fees are affordable, only 7€ per person for the monastery and 5€ per person for the Convent.
20. Enjoy the Views From the Napoleon Fortress
Hvar, a picturesque town in Croatia, is home to two magnificent fortresses. One of them is the Spanjola Fortress, situated above the old town. The other fortress, Napoljun in Hvar dialect, or Napoleon Fortress in English, is 230 meters above sea level and higher up in the hills. It was built in 1812 by the French rulers and currently houses the Hvar Observatory. Unfortunately, it is not open to the public.
Despite this, the fortress is a popular hiking destination from Hvar Town, and it also offers stunning views of the sea and the town of Hvar at sunset. The hike to the fortress takes around 40 minutes and passes through a beautiful pine forest on a well-marked trail. Alternatively, visitors can also reach the Napoleon Fortress by car.
21. Visit Family Farm Kod Kucera
If you’re a foodie looking for things to do on Hvar Island, don’t miss Family Farm Kod Kucera. This family-owned farm in Zastražišće offers traditional farming experiences and tasty homemade products from organic ingredients.
The Kuzmicic family grows veggies, olive and fig trees, and vine and raises goats, donkeys, and chickens. They produce goat milk, cheese, figs, wine, liqueurs, fruit juices, Prosek dessert wine, and olive oil.
Their farm-to-table restaurant serves homemade food using their own produce. Enjoy stunning views of Pokrivenik Bay, Jelsa, and the sea from the farm’s terrace.
Visit for an unforgettable experience and connect with the warm local family while savoring their fresh goodies.
22. Visit Brusje and Lavander Fields
Hvar Island was once renowned for its lavender fields, but sadly, only a few plants remain today. However, you can still visit some remaining lavender fields on the island. One is near Brusje village, situated atop a hill 6 km east of Hvar. Another one is located at the entrance of Jelsa.
Brusje is a serene village offering stunning sea views, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Besides lavender, the village is known for its olive oil and honey. Drop by the Family Farm, a bar and tavern in the village, to savor refreshments and homemade products like honey, olive oil, and more. While the lavender fields here may not be as impressive, they still provide a beautiful view of the surrounding area.
On the other hand, at the entrance of Jelsa, the Deanovic family cultivates lavender on a 1-hectare plot. During the blooming season in June and July, the fields are filled with the enchanting scent of lavender and transform into a magical shade of purple. The family also sells their products on-site.
You can also take this guided tour of Hvar’s lavender fields.
23. Shop Local Products
Shopping for local products supports the island’s economy and lets you take home a piece of Hvar. On the island, you’ll find small businesses producing high-quality natural goods.
- Gamulin Cokolade in Jelsa creates delicious chocolates, pralines, and ice cream using traditional techniques and top-quality Belgian chocolate.
- Lucic essential oils are locally handmade with carefully selected plants, flowers, and herbs from Hvar. They offer various fragrant oils with therapeutic properties.
- Hvaroma Natural Cosmetics offers a unique range of natural cosmetics based on traditional recipes.
- Za Pod Zub is a must-stop shop for authentic Croatian products.
- Bozic Olive Oils makes 100% natural extra virgin olive oils.
- OPG Ante Mateljan sells homegrown products like figs, olive oil, wine, and more.
- OPG Deanovic specializes in lavender-based products.
- Tantum Natural in Stari Grad creates handmade souvenirs using natural materials.
Supporting these businesses benefits the local economy and promotes sustainable tourism.
24. Visit Vrboska, the Venice of Hvar
Vrboska is a charming fishing village located on the north coast of Hvar Island. It’s often called the “Little Venice” due to its long sea canal dividing the village into two parts. While the comparison might be a bit exaggerated, Vrboska is definitely worth a visit during your stay on Hvar Island.

The village has a laid-back atmosphere, offering a nice balance of tourist activities and local life. You can easily explore the town within a few hours, including coffee breaks in the local cafes.
After a stroll in the town, head to Zecevo Island, where you can swim, relax by the beach and enjoy cocktails at the Lantina Beach Bar.
Before leaving Vrboska, make sure to stop at Caric Winery, where you can taste and purchase their award-winning wines made from indigenous grape varieties. Wine and Oil Bar Nono, situated on the waterfront, is a great place to have a bite and taste the island’s best wines and olive oils. This bar boasts an impressive selection of over 85 wine labels sourced from certified island winemakers, complemented by an array of approximately 30 distinct olive oils.
25. Go Sea Kayaking
Sea kayaking is one of the best things to do in Hvar. It is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Hvar’s beautiful coastline.
Our personal experience renting kayaks for a day with Kayak & SUP Hvar from Hvar Town was great. Their rental outlet is situated at Bonj Beach, right below the Amfora Grand Hotel. The staff was friendly and well-informed and clearly explained the route we should take, along with great advice on where to stop for swimming, snorkeling, and refreshments. Their prices are affordable, and they also offer guided tours if you prefer to be accompanied.
Our first stop on Pakleni Islands was Zdrilica Bay on Marinkovac Island, which took us about 40 minutes of paddling. We also visited other secluded beaches, including Perna Beach. On our way back to Hvar Town, we stopped in Zdrilica and enjoyed a drink at Tri Grede bar.
Our paddling adventure took us about 6 hours, which included swim stops and more than one coffee break.
The full-day one-person kayak rental costs €45 ($50, £39) per person, while the double kayak costs €69 ($75, £60) for the full day. For us, this was one of our best experiences on Hvar.
What To Do In Hvar Town Croatia
Hvar Town is the biggest tourist hub on the island, and there are plenty of activities in Hvar Town to keep you entertained while visiting. Many things to do in Hvar Town have already been included in this post, but if you would like to explore further, we have an entire post dedicated only to day trips, activities, and attractions in Hvar Town.
The town offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Visitors can also go on boat tours to nearby islands and coves or take a snorkeling or diving trip to discover the underwater world.
For those interested in history and culture, Hvar Town has a rich heritage dating back to the ancient Greeks, and many historical landmarks can be found throughout the town. The Fortica Fortress offers stunning views of the town and surrounding islands, while the Theatre-Arsenal is one of the oldest public theaters in Europe.
Hvar Town also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs scattered throughout the town. For a more relaxed evening, visitors can enjoy a cocktail at one of the many seaside cafes or catch a live music performance in the town square.
Half-day And Day Trips From Hvar Town
In addition to the activities and attractions within the town, numerous half-day and day trips from Hvar Town are available for visitors. These excursions allow visitors to explore more of the island’s beauty and unique offerings.
Some of the popular options include a Speedboat Tour to Blue and Green Caves, a Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch, a Half-Day Kayaking Tour to Pakleni Islands, a Hvar Hidden Gems Tour, and the E-Bike Tour of Hvar.
Can You Visit Hvar in One Day?
While it’s possible to visit Hvar Town for just one day, we highly recommend spending at least a few days in Hvar Town and on the island to truly experience all it has to offer. However, if you’re short on time and want to make the most of your day trip, here are some tips:
- Start early: Catch an early morning ferry or catamaran from Split or another nearby island to maximize your time on Hvar.
- Plan ahead: Research and prioritize the top attractions you want to see and create a rough itinerary to make the most of your day.
- Consider a tour: Joining a guided tour can help you efficiently visit multiple destinations in one day without worrying about transportation logistics.
- Be flexible: Don’t stress if you can’t fit everything in, and be open to adjusting your plans if necessary.
A Day Trip From Split To Hvar Town
If you’re staying in Split, Hvar is a perfect day trip destination. With its combination of historical sites, natural beauty, and charming local culture, a day trip to Hvar from Split will surely be a memorable experience.
What To Do In Hvar In A Day?
Below, we list some of the top activities and attractions to consider adding to your one-day itinerary on Hvar Island.
- Explore the Old Town: Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Hvar’s historic city center, lined with picturesque buildings, shops, and restaurants.
- Visit the Fortress: Climb to the Fortica fortress for breathtaking views of Hvar Town and the surrounding islands.
- Relax at Hvar’s beaches: Spend some time soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Hvar’s beautiful beaches, such as Pokonji Dol or Mekicevica.
- Visit Pakleni Islands: Take a short boat ride to the nearby Pakleni Islands, where you can explore secluded coves, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy stunning views.
- Try local cuisine: Don’t miss out on some of Hvar’s famous dishes, such as fresh seafood, grilled lamb, or traditional peka.
- Visit a Winery: Join a wine-tasting tour to sample some of Hvar Island’s finest wines.
Trip Planning Guide to Hvar Island
Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay on Hvar, there are some essential things to remember.
Where is Hvar Island?
Hvar Island is located in the Adriatic Sea, in central Dalmatia, between Brac Island, Peljesac Peninsula, and Vis Island. Hvar Town is 24 nm from Split, while Stari Grad is 30 nm away.
The island is accessible by ferry or catamaran from Split, Dubrovnik, and other nearby cities.
The Best Time To Visit Hvar Island
The peak tourist season on Hvar Island runs from June to September, with July and August being the busiest months. If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, consider visiting in June or September when the weather is still warm, but the crowds have thinned out.
How To Get To Hvar Island
Visitors can take a ferry from Split or Drvenik year-round and Dubrovnik or Makarska during the summer to reach Hvar Island. There are also catamaran and ferry routes connecting Hvar to other nearby islands, making it a convenient stop on an island-hopping itinerary. It takes approximately 1 hour to reach Hvar Town from Split by catamaran and about 2 hours to reach Stari Grad by car ferry.
We’ve written detailed information on how to reach Hvar from Split. If you want to reach Hvar, Split is the best departure port.
Where To Stay On Hvar Island
Visitors can choose from various accommodations on Hvar Island, including hotels, villas, apartments, and guesthouses. Many of these options are located in Hvar Town, but there are also options in smaller towns and villages throughout the island.
Find out where to stay in Hvar, including the best towns and hotels.
What To Pack For A Trip To Hvar Island
When deciding what to pack for Hvar Island, remember that the island has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the summer months and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Don’t forget your swimsuit, beach essentials, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the island’s many hiking trails.
How Much Time Do You Need On Hvar Island
You can easily spend a week or more on Hvar Island, especially if you want to explore the surrounding islands on day trips. However, if you only have a few days, it’s still possible to see and experience many of the island’s top attractions in a short amount of time.
Check out our recommended itineraries for spending 1, 3, and 7 days on Hvar Island.