The Island of Hvar, located between the islands of Vis, Brač, and Korčula off the Dalmatian Coast, is known for many things, but perhaps none are more interesting than its natural features. With fresh water springs and mountain ridges composed of dolomite and Mesozoic limestone dating back hundreds of millions of years, Hvar is truly a haven for those who love the outdoors. It is also well-suited to those who are looking for a more luxurious getaway, thanks to resort towns like the identically named Hvar Town.
Here is a peek at some of the things you can do on this island, so you can flesh out your itinerary.
What Is the Best Time to Visit the Island of Hvar, Croatia?
The Island of Hvar is beautiful all year round, but the most popular time to visit is between July and September. It may be a bit crowded during these hot summer months, but this is the ideal time to go due to the weather, which allows for lots of beach time and fun in the sun.
Our Favorite Things to Do on the Island of Hvar, Croatia
Below you can find some of the best things to do in Croatia, for more info do check out our main guide!
Try Some Gregada
Gregada is the signature dish of Hvar and one of the dishes you must try if you’re traveling to Croatia. People from all over the world come to get a taste of this fish stew chock full of onions, garlic, potatoes, and olive oil, and they always leave happy. Traditionally, this dish is prepared with large chunks of fish, usually with bones included, which makes for even heartier, filling fare.
Embrace Your Inner Party Animal
Hvar Town is well-known by nightlife enthusiasts as the place to party. There are multiple places to go to have a good time, including the once-secluded, now-happening Majerovića Beach. If you want something a little more out of the way (and a bit more exclusive), you can take a speedboat to a beach bar and dance floor called Hula Hula Hvar, where you can sip on cocktails and watch the sun set in style.
Visit a Deserted Village
If the music gets to be a bit too loud for you in Hvar Town, you can head over to Humac, a town that is completely and utterly deserted. Its residents moved away over a hundred years ago, but visitors are allowed in to walk around what remains of the town. Although it has no electricity (which is understandable, since it also has no inhabitants), you can still dine at restaurants here, where dishes like white fish and lamb are cooked over a warm, inviting fire.
Some of the Best Attractions on the Island of Hvar, Croatia
Dubovica Beach
Located on the southern coast of the island, Dubovica Beach is frequently touted as being the best beach in all of Hvar. It is peaceful and calm, with blue, glassy water that is so clear that when you look out at the sea, it looks like boats and the people swimming are floating on air with nothing beneath them. The beach itself is composed of pebbles with a whitish tint, making everything even prettier. With a backdrop of stone houses hidden amongst hills full of pine trees, this is a truly idyllic location for a vacation.
St. Stephen’s Square
Measuring 4,500 square meters, St. Stephen’s Square is the largest plaza in all of Dalmatia. It is the central hub of Hvar Town, and spans the distance from the towering St. Stephen’s Cathedral all the way down to the coast. Once part of the bay area, this town square was specially engineered to be level enough to build restaurants, shops, and other places on. Many of the aforementioned restaurants provide guests with the option to eat outside on the cobblestone street, with a great view of the Cathedral and its bell tower, inside which you can find numerous Renaissance art masterpieces by well-known, lesser-known, and unknown artists of the time period.
Spanjola Fortress
Like much of the Island of Hvar’s must-see architecture, the Spanjola Fortress was built in the Venetian style in the 1500s. To get there, you must climb a steep stairway, but once you arrive, you’ll be glad you did. The walls, towers, and tunnels of the fortress are very well-preserved, and can be thoroughly explored by those who want a taste of what it was like back in the 16th century. Perhaps even more interesting than the canons and armaments, though, is the beautiful, panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea, Hvar Town, and the Pakleni Islands you get from the top.
Other Sights Worth a Visit on the Island of Hvar, Croatia
Speaking of the Pakleni Islands, you can also visit these beachy hot spots via a water taxi or motorboat from Hvar’s mainland. Once there, you can swim, explore secluded beaches (or day drink on the more populated ones), or just stroll around, enjoying the view.
Whether you’d prefer to explore centuries-old fortresses, chow down on local seafood cuisine, or spend your days communing with nature, the Island of Hvar awaits you.
