This is the place to sip ostentatious cocktails, rent a motorboat and glide around the tiny islands.
Playground for the rich and famous, in recent years Hvar has hosted the likes of Beyoncé, Eva Longoria and even Prince Harry, who infamously tumbled into a pool at Veranda nightclub.
Where? Hvar town, the largest city on Hvar Island, is situated around 1 hour’s ferry journey from the Croatian city of Split.
Language: Croatian
Population: 4138
Nearest airport: Split
Main train/ferry/bus station(s): Hvar Town ferry port
Budget level: ££
Best time to visit? May – September (July and August are busiest and most expensive, so you’ll need to book with us well in advance).
Best for: Nightlife/Beach/Old Town Exploring/Trips and Excursions
Hvar is a super versatile destination, with an Old Town and masses to explore on the rest of the island. Your itinerary can be adapted to fit the time you’ve got. Book 3-5 nights if you’re looking to chill out at the end of your trip, explore the island and maybe sacrifice some days to a hangover. Alternatively, just hop on a return ferry from Split and spend the afternoon roaming around the beautiful cobbled streets of Hvar Town, before heading back to the mainland.
Ferries from Split run regularly and take around 1 hour. You can also connect to Hvar via Split from elsewhere in Croatia if you don’t fancy the stopover. If you’re finishing your Euroventure here, you can fly out of Split airport – just make sure you allow plenty of time to get back to Split by ferry and then take the airport bus. This should take around 2 hours in total.
For the best views, head up to the Fortica, Hvar’s city fortress. It’s worth the climb – you’ll be able to see right out to sea across the Pakleni Islands and red rooves of Hvar Town.
Hitting the beach is what Hvar is all about – most are rocky or pebbly so bring a towel to lie on, but you’ll find plenty of secluded spots for that all-important sunbathing. Amfora is the largest but there’s also Dubovika beach which is accessible via boat.
Hvar hosts some of Europe’s best and most enticing nightlife. Ever dreamed of sipping cocktails under the stars, right on the beach? That’s exactly what you can do at Hvar’s clubs. Check out Carpe Diem Beach or Hula Hula to watch the sun set (or rise?) in style.
Wandering around the old town is a cultural experience in itself, but to immerse yourself further, investigate the 15th Century Franciscan Monastery in Hvar town, as well as St Stephan’s Cathedral on the main square.
Hvar town is centred around the Riva or Port area, but the whole town is so small you can easily explore it on foot.
The Riva is where you’ll find the main town square, with its touristy restaurants, cafes and shops. Explore the coastal paths a little further and you’ll come to gorgeous beaches and luxurious hotels and bars.
Venturing out, you can also visit other towns on the island by bus or boat such as Stari Grad and Jelsa. Taxi boats and tourist offices are located on the port side for excursions.
Journey out to the Pakleni Islands - these are home to a couple of Hvar's best beach bars - perfect for a quick beer stop.
Tour the tiny islands and many secluded beaches.
Book to go wine tasting in Hvar's mountainous wine regions.
