Located on the Adriatic Sea, Hvar is often referred to as one of Croatia’s best (and most beautiful) islands, and not without reason; with its delicate balance of historical importance, culture and natural beauty, it makes for a gorgeous Mediterranean escape. This 5-day itinerary was carefully put together to help you make the most of your trip, giving you the opportunity to both relax on the beach and venture into ancient towns – whatever sounds like the ideal holiday for you, Hvar has it all.
Day 1
Most travellers reach the island via ferry from Split, a journey that offers great views of the Dalmatian coast. Upon approaching Hvar, the first sight of its charming harbour, filled with yachts and lined with historic buildings, already sets the tone for your stay.
You’ll most likely start your adventure in Hvar Town, the island’s main hub. Begin by walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets, lined here and there with quaint cafes and boutique shops. At the heart of the town you’ll find St. Stephen's Square, a busy plaza dominated by an impressive cathedral, a beautiful example of baroque architecture.
For convenience, it’s best if you can find accommodation in or near Hvar Town. You’ll find a vast range of options here: from luxury hotels, such as the Palace Elisabeth, to charming guesthouses and cosy Airbnb apartments. If you stay close to the town centre, you won’t ever be far from the action (just keep in mind that busier neighbourhoods might be louder at night).
As dinnertime comes around, we suggest you try traditional Croatian dishes like fresh seafood or peka, a slow-cooked meat and vegetable dish. After dinner, finish the day with a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the harbour as night falls.
Day 2
Start your day with a visit to the Spanish Fortress, or Fortica. The walk up to the fortress is a bit of a climb, but it’s well worth the effort! From the top, you’ll get brilliant panoramic views of the town, as well as the surrounding islands. This fortress was built in the 16th century to defend the town against pirate attacks.
After coming back down, head over to the Franciscan Monastery, a peaceful retreat set by the sea, known for its beautiful Renaissance cloister and a collection of historic artefacts. Not far from it, you’ll find the Hvar Public Theatre, one of the oldest theatres in Europe (it dates back to 1612!).
For dinner, visit one of the traditional konobas – a type of Croatian tavern, where you can try some hearty, home-cooked meals in a cosy and rustic setting. End your day with a glass of local wine (perhaps a Plavac Mali), if that’s your thing.
Day 3
No trip to Hvar is complete without a visit to its beautiful beaches. Start your day with Dubovica Beach (a pebble beach), a favourite among both locals and visitors. Another option is Mekicevica Beach, a bit more secluded and accessible by a short hike from the main road.
In the afternoon, go on a boat trip to the Pakleni Islands, a group of small islands just off the coast. You can rent a boat or join a guided tour that will take you to some of the best spots, where you can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the beach… whatever floats your boat (pardon the pun).
You can either pack a picnic or stop at one of the beach bars on the islands for a refreshing drink.
Day 4
The fourth day is a good one to explore more of the island’s history. You can do so by visiting Stari Grad – one of the oldest towns in Croatia! A short drive or bus ride from Hvar Town, Stari Grad is a step back in time with its ancient stone buildings and quiet, narrow streets. Visit Tvrdalj Castle, the well-preserved Renaissance home of the Croatian poet Petar Hektorović. Don’t miss the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can see ancient agricultural practices still in use today.
Follow up with a trip to the charming town of Jelsa, located on the northern coast of the island. Jelsa’s waterfront, lined with palmtrees, is great for a calm stroll. If you’re a wine enthusiast, this is the perfect place to visit a local winery and sample some of Hvar’s famous wines. You might also want to check out the nearby lavender fields, a signature of Hvar’s landscape – especially in the summer months.
For dinner, you can either stay in Jelsa or return to Stari Grad. Both towns have great dining options, with fresh seafood and local wines.
Day 5
On your final day, round up your trip with an outdoor adventure. One option is to hike to Sveti Nikola, the highest peak on the island. The hike is moderately challenging but highly rewarding, and you’re quite likely to have the trail all to yourself.
As an alternative, you can spend the morning kayaking along the coast, or snorkelling. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, simply choose a quiet beach where you can soak up the last rays of the Croatian sun.
Spend your last afternoon exploring Hvar Town; maybe use this opportunity for some shopping. The town’s boutiques offer a range of unique souvenirs that you can bring back home, from handmade jewellery to local lavender products.
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