Explore Hvar Town: A Complete Guide to Croatia’s Trendy Island Destination

Located on the stunning Hvar Island in the Adriatic Sea, Hvar Town is one of Croatia's most glamorous and sought-after destinations. Known for its breathtaking beaches, medieval architecture, lush vineyards, and vibrant nightlife, Hvar Town offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern luxury.
 

Whether you're visiting for the beautiful coastline, historic landmarks, or a lively nightlife scene, Hvar Town has something for everyone. Let’s explore this picturesque town and all it has to offer.

📍 Where is Hvar Town?

Location: Hvar Island, Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia

Nearest cities: Split (approx. 60 km), Dubrovnik (approx. 220 km)

Accessibility: By ferry or boat from Split, Brač, or other nearby islands.

Hvar Town is located on the southern coast of Hvar Island and is easily accessible by ferry from Split or other nearby islands. The town offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses.

🌟 Why Visit Hvar Town?

🏖️ Beautiful Beaches

Hvar Town boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Croatia. From quiet coves to lively beach clubs, there’s a beach for every type of traveler.

Banje Beach – A lively spot perfect for sunbathing and beach clubs.

Pokonji Dol Beach – A quieter, more serene beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the island's landscape.

Mekicevica Beach – A pebbled beach with a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.

🏰 Historical Charm

Hvar Town’s charm lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its rich history. With Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and a stunning fortress, Hvar Town offers a glimpse into its fascinating past.

Hvar Fortress – A stunning 16th-century fortress with panoramic views of the town and the Adriatic.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral – This Renaissance-style cathedral is one of the most important historical landmarks in Hvar.

Arsenal and Theater – Built in the 16th century, this is one of the oldest public theaters in Europe.

🌙 Vibrant Nightlife

Hvar Town is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene. The town comes alive after dark with beach clubs, rooftop bars, and lively nightclubs.

Carpe Diem – A popular nightclub located on Hvar’s nearby island, known for hosting world-class DJs and exciting parties.

Hula Hula Bar – A stylish beach bar perfect for sunset drinks and dancing by the sea.

Kiva Bar – A popular hangout for backpackers, offering cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

🗺️ Top Things to Do in Hvar Town

1. 🏰 Visit Hvar Fortress

Hvar Fortress (or Fortica), built in the 16th century by the Venetians, offers panoramic views of the town, harbor, and surrounding islands. It’s the perfect spot for photography and to learn about Hvar’s history.

What to do:

Explore the fortress and its well-preserved walls.

Enjoy the views of the Adriatic Sea and Hvar Town from the top.

Learn about the town's history at the small museum inside the fortress.

2. 🌊 Swim at Hvar’s Beaches

Hvar Town’s beaches are perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the sun.

Top Beaches:

Pokonji Dol Beach – Great for swimming and enjoying peaceful views.

Mekicevica Beach – A quieter, pebbled beach with crystal-clear water.

Banje Beach – Lively with bars, lounges, and water sports.

3. 🏛️ Explore the Old Town and Cathedral

Stroll through the cobbled streets of Hvar Old Town and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a 16th-century Renaissance masterpiece located in the town square. The cathedral is one of Hvar's most notable landmarks.

Highlights:

St. Stephen’s Square – The vibrant heart of the town.

The Cathedral – Admire the impressive architecture and its baroque altarpiece.

The Arsenal and Theater – One of the oldest theaters in Europe, built in the 16th century.

4. ⛵ Take a Boat Trip to the Pakleni Islands

The Pakleni Islands are a group of small islands just off the coast of Hvar. These islands are known for their clear waters, secluded beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

What to do:

Rent a boat or take a guided tour to explore the islands.

Visit Palmizana – A lush, green island known for its tranquil beaches and gourmet restaurants.

Enjoy water sports such as kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.

5. 🌇 Watch the Sunset at Hula Hula

Hvar is famous for its spectacular sunsets, and Hula Hula Bar offers the perfect vantage point. Located on the waterfront, this bar is a favorite for watching the sun dip below the horizon.

What to do:

Enjoy cocktails at sunset with a view.

Dance to the music as the night comes alive.

Relax and unwind while overlooking the Adriatic.

🍽️ What to Eat in Hvar Town

Hvar Town is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, fresh seafood, and local wines. Dining here offers a chance to experience traditional Dalmatian dishes with a modern twist.

Must-Try Dishes:

Pasticada – A rich beef stew cooked in wine and served with gnocchi.

Grilled Fish – Fresh seafood, especially sea bass and mackerel, is a local specialty.

Hvar Lamb – Known for its tender, flavorful meat.

Hvar Olive Oil – The island is known for its exceptional olive oil, perfect for drizzling on salads and local dishes.

Best Restaurants:

Giaxa – A fine-dining restaurant offering traditional Dalmatian cuisine in a historic setting.

Konoba Menego – A local favorite for traditional Croatian dishes with a rustic ambiance.

Restaurant 48 – Known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the harbor.

🍷 Wine Tasting in Hvar Town

Hvar is one of Croatia's top wine regions, and wine tourism is a must-do activity for any visitor. The island produces some of the country’s best wines, especially plavac mali.

Hvar Winery Tours – Explore vineyards in the town and nearby villages. You can taste local wines and learn about the island’s rich winemaking tradition.

Top wineries:

Tomic Winery – Known for its premium wines and wine-tasting experiences.

Dubokovic Winery – A family-run vineyard offering organic wines.

🏨 Where to Stay in Hvar Town

Hvar offers a wide range of accommodations for all budgets. From luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels, there’s a place for every traveler.

Top Picks:

Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort – A luxurious resort located near the beach, with stunning views and a private pool.

The Palace Hvar – A stylish hotel in the heart of Hvar Town with modern amenities and great service.

Villa Nora Hvar – A boutique hotel located in the old town, offering an intimate and cozy experience.

🛶 Best Time to Visit Hvar Town

Summer (June–August) is the peak tourist season in Hvar Town, with warm weather and lively nightlife.

Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are the best times to visit if you prefer a quieter experience and milder weather.

Winter is the off-season in Hvar, so expect fewer crowds and cooler weather, but some businesses may be closed.

🚗 Getting to Hvar Town

By Ferry:

Ferries from Split (the nearest large city) run frequently to Hvar Town. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.

By Boat:

Private boats or yacht charters can also take you directly to Hvar Town from various nearby locations.

🧳 What to Pack for Hvar Town

Swimwear for beach visits and water activities.

Comfortable shoes for walking the cobblestone streets of Hvar’s Old Town.

Sunscreen and a hat for protection against the sun.

Camera to capture the stunning scenery and sunsets.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Hvar Town – The Perfect Croatian Escape

Whether you're seeking relaxation on the beach, a taste of Croatian history, or an exciting nightlife experience, Hvar Town is a destination that has it all. With its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant atmosphere, Hvar remains one of Croatia’s most beloved islands.

From its ancient fortress to its idyllic beaches and energetic nightlife, Hvar Town is truly an island paradise. Make sure to visit soon and discover why it's one of the top destinations in Croatia!