Are you planning a trip to Croatia and wondering what to do in Hvar? Hvar is a beautiful island located in the Adriatic Sea, known for its crystal clear waters, lush vegetation, and rich cultural heritage. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to decide where to start.
Interesting facts about Hvar:
- Hvar is the sunniest island in Croatia, with over 2,700 hours of sunshine per year.
- The island of Hvar has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and has a rich history that includes Greek, Roman, and Venetian influences.
- Hvar is famous for its lavender fields, which bloom in late spring and early summer and produce high-quality lavender oil that is used in cosmetics and perfumes.
- Hvar is also known for its excellent wines, which are produced from local grape varieties such as Plavac Mali and Bogdanuša. The island has a long tradition of winemaking, dating back to ancient times.
- The town of Hvar has one of the oldest public theaters in Europe, the Hvar Public Theatre, which was built in the 17th century.
- Hvar is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, including Dubovica Beach, Zlatni Rat Beach, and Pakleni Islands.
- The Hvar Fortress, also known as Fortica, is a must-see attraction in Hvar and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. The fortress was built in the 16th century to protect the city from invaders.
- Hvar has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Hvar Summer Festival, the Lavender Festival, and the Hvar Wine Festival.
- The Benedictine Monastery in Hvar is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and is home to many valuable artworks and artifacts.
- Hvar has a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination for year-round tourism.
In this article, we’ll explore the 20 best things to do in Hvar, from exploring historic landmarks to soaking up the sun on pristine beaches.
Visit the Hvar Fortress
The Hvar Fortress, also known as Fortica, is a must-see attraction in Hvar. Built in the 16th century to protect the city from invaders, the fortress offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and explore the historic walls and buildings. The fortress also houses a small museum that showcases the history of Hvar and its strategic importance in the past.
Explore St. Stephen’s Cathedral
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in Hvar and is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. The cathedral dates back to the 16th century and is home to many valuable artworks and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and frescoes. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the interior, such as the marble altar and the wooden choir stalls. They can also climb the bell tower for stunning views of the city and the sea.
Enjoy the View from Spanjola Fortress
Spanjola Fortress is another impressive fortress in Hvar that dates back to the 16th century. The fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the sea and is a popular destination for sunset watching. Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and explore the historic walls and buildings. They can also learn about the fortress’s role in the defense of the city and the island.
Take a Stroll along the Riva Promenade
The Riva Promenade is the main street in Hvar and is a lively pedestrianized area lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade and soak up the atmosphere of the city. They can also admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings along the promenade, such as the historic Arsenal building and the elegant Hotel Palace.
Visit the Franciscan Monastery
The Franciscan Monastery is one of the oldest buildings in Hvar and is a popular destination for visitors. The monastery dates back to the 15th century and is home to many valuable artworks and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts. Visitors can explore the beautiful cloisters and gardens of the monastery and learn about the history and culture of Hvar.
See the Lavender Fields
Hvar is famous for its lavender fields, which bloom in late spring and early summer. Visitors can take a tour of the lavender fields and learn about the history and cultivation of this fragrant plant. They can also buy lavender products such as essential oils, soaps, and perfumes. The lavender fields offer a beautiful and relaxing setting for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Swim at Dubovica Beach
Dubovica Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hvar and is a popular destination for visitors. This secluded beach is located in a picturesque cove and offers crystal clear waters and a pebble beach. Visitors can also enjoy water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking.
Go on a Wine Tasting Tour
Hvar is also known for its excellent wines, which are produced from local grape varieties such as Plavac Mali and Bogdanuša. Visitors can go on a wine tasting tour and sample some of the best wines of the island. Some of the most popular wineries to visit include Tomić Winery, Duboković Winery, and Zlatan Otok Winery.
Take a Boat Tour of the Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are a group of small islands located off the coast of Hvar. Visitors can take a boat tour of the islands and explore their secluded coves and beaches. They can also visit the many restaurants and bars on the islands and enjoy the local cuisine and drinks. The islands offer a relaxing and idyllic setting for a day trip from Hvar.
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling
Hvar offers excellent scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, thanks to its crystal clear waters and diverse marine life. Visitors can explore the underwater world and see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even octopuses. Some of the best dive sites include the Vis Island Wreck and the Green Cave.
Visit the Hvar Heritage Museum
The Hvar Heritage Museum is located in the historic Arsenal building and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the island. Visitors can see many valuable artworks, artifacts, and exhibits that depict the history of Hvar, from the ancient times to the present day. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the island’s past and its role in the wider Mediterranean region.
See the Venetian Loggia
The Venetian Loggia is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and is one of the most important landmarks in Hvar. This elegant building was built in the 16th century and served as a meeting place for the city’s nobility. Today, visitors can admire its beautiful arches and columns and learn about its history.
Climb the Bell Tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral
The bell tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the tallest buildings in Hvar and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Visitors can climb the tower’s narrow stairs and enjoy the panoramic view from the top. The climb can be challenging, but the view is definitely worth it.
Explore the Hvar Public Theatre
The Hvar Public Theatre is one of the oldest public theaters in Europe and is a popular destination for visitors. The theater dates back to the 17th century and offers a unique glimpse into the history of theater in Hvar. Visitors can also attend performances and concerts at the theater and experience the vibrant cultural scene of the island.
Visit the Benedictine Monastery
The Benedictine Monastery is another historic landmark in Hvar and is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture. The monastery dates back to the 17th century and is home to many valuable artworks and artifacts. Visitors can also explore its beautiful gardens and cloisters and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the monastery.
Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities in Hvar, thanks to its calm and crystal clear waters. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the coastline and coves of the island at their own pace. They can also stop at secluded beaches and enjoy a swim or a picnic.
Attend the Hvar Summer Festival
The Hvar Summer Festival is a cultural event that takes place every summer and showcases the best of local music, theater, and dance. Visitors can attend performances and concerts at various venues around the city and experience the vibrant cultural scene of Hvar.
Discover the Blue and Green Caves
The Blue and Green Caves are located on the nearby island of Biševo and are one of the most popular attractions in the Hvar region. Visitors can take a boat tour to the caves and explore their stunning blue and green colors, caused by the reflection of the sun on the water. They can also swim in the crystal clear waters and admire the unique rock formations.
Go on a Sunset Cruise
Hvar is known for its beautiful sunsets, and one of the best ways to experience them is on a sunset cruise. Visitors can take a boat tour and enjoy the stunning view of the sun setting over the sea. They can also enjoy drinks and music on board and make unforgettable memories.
Relax at Zlatni Rat Beach
Zlatni Rat Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Croatia and is located on the nearby island of Brač. Visitors can take a ferry from Hvar to Brač and spend a day relaxing on the beautiful pebble beach. They can also enjoy water activities such as windsurfing and paddleboarding. The beach offers a stunning view of the sea and the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Overall, Hvar offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. From exploring historic landmarks to relaxing on pristine beaches, visitors can create unforgettable memories and experiences on their trip to Hvar.
However, it’s important to note that Hvar can be crowded during the peak tourist season, and some activities and attractions may require advanced booking. It’s also important to respect the local culture and environment and to follow responsible tourism practices, such as avoiding littering and preserving natural habitats.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Croatia, make sure to include Hvar on your itinerary and experience the beauty and charm of this stunning island in the Adriatic Sea.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Hvar?
The best time to visit Hvar is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the tourist season is in full swing.
How do I get to Hvar?
You can get to Hvar by ferry from Split or by catamaran from Split, Dubrovnik, or Korčula.
Is Hvar expensive?
Hvar can be expensive, especially during the peak tourist season. However, there are also many affordable options for accommodation, food, and activities.
What is the currency used in Hvar?
The currency used in Hvar is the Croatian Kuna (HRK).
Are there any festivals or events in Hvar?
Yes, there are many festivals and events in Hvar throughout the year, such as the Hvar Summer Festival, the Lavender Festival, and the Hvar Wine Festival.
Pingback: 15 Best Croatian Islands: A Guide to the Ultimate Island Hopping Adventure