Hvar vacation packages

How to reach Hvar

• Flight time: Flights to Hvar from London typically take about 2 hours and 30 minutes. You will most likely fly into Split Airport as there is no airport on Hvar itself. Several airlines operate direct flights from other major UK airports.

• Transfer time: From Split Airport, it’s a 30-minute bus or taxi ride to Split harbor, from where you take a ferry or catamaran to Hvar Town – a journey of between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the service.

• Price: The bus from Split Airport to the harbor costs around $5, and the ferry or catamaran to Hvar costs approximately $10–$20 one way. A taxi from Split Airport to the harbor will cost around $30.

Best time to visit Hvar

Peak tourist season for Hvar vacations is July and August, but there are plenty of places on the island where you can easily escape the crowds, whatever time of year.

• April to June: A wonderful time to visit if you enjoy the (bearable) heat and fewer tourists. Temperatures range from 59°F to 77°F, with minimal rainfall (0.8–2 inches) and plenty of sunshine (8 to 10 hours daily). The sea is usually warm enough to swim in by mid- to late May.

• July to August: Peak season when temperatures can soar to 86°F or higher, there’s around 12 hours of daily sunshine, and rainfall is rare. This is the time to visit if busy beaches and lively café society are what you’re looking for.

• September to October: Although still quite busy, the shoulder season remains a good time to visit, with temperatures from 64°F to 79°F and about 7 to 9 hours of sunshine. There is significantly less pressure on local facilities during this time.

• November to March: The weather can still be incredibly mild, with temperatures around 50°F to 59°F, though rainfall is slightly higher (2.4–4.7 inches). There are fewer ferries to the island but it is much quieter, and accommodation prices are lower, making it a good time for a peaceful visit, so long as you aren’t seeking beach action.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken throughout the island.

• Local habits and customs: Croatians are welcoming and gregarious. Greeting people with a smile and saying “dobar dan” (good day) will be much appreciated. Tips (napojnice) are not obligatory, but if you’ve had a round of drinks or a full meal, it’s polite to round up the bill by 10 percent or to the nearest convenient figure.

• Health and safety: Hvar is a safe destination, but make sure to keep an eye on possessions when on the beach. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

• Currency: The official currency is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places.

• Getting around: There are regular services between Hvar Town, Stari Grad, Jelsa, and Vrboska. All Stari Grad–Hvar Town services call at Stari Grad ferry port to pick up and drop off ferry passengers.

• Electricity and plug types: Wall sockets in Croatia operate at 220 volts and take round, two-pin plugs. British and US travelers should purchase a continental adapter before leaving home.

• Time zone: Dubrovnik is in Central European Time (CET), which is one hour ahead of GMT. Daylight Saving Time is observed.

• Required travel documentation: UK travelers need a valid passport but no visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Where to stay during your Hvar vacation

Choosing the right place to stay is key to enjoying your Hvar vacation to the fullest. Hvar Island offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly apartments, ensuring there’s something to suit every traveler’s needs. Here’s a guide to the most popular tourist towns and resort areas on the island.

Hvar town

Hvar Town is the bustling heart of the island, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and picturesque harbor. Staying here puts you close to major attractions such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Fortica Fortress, and the Franciscan Monastery. The town offers a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to charming boutique stays. For those looking for a lively atmosphere with plenty of dining and entertainment options, Hvar Town is the ideal choice. Explore our deals on vacations to Hvar Town for the best offers.

Stari Grad

Stari Grad is one of the oldest towns in Europe and offers a more relaxed and historical experience. This charming town is perfect for those who enjoy exploring ancient sites and tranquil settings. The Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit. Accommodation here includes cozy guesthouses, family-run hotels, and self-catering apartments. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and historical charm by checking out our cheap vacations to Stari Grad.

Jelsa

Jelsa is a family-friendly town known for its beautiful beaches and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great base for exploring the island’s natural beauty and offers a variety of water sports and outdoor activities. Jelsa has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to mid-range apartments. The town’s central location makes it easy to explore other parts of the island.

Sveti Nedjelja

Sveti Nedjelja is a picturesque village on the southern coast of Hvar Island, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat. Known for its stunning cliffs, vineyards, and crystal-clear waters, this area is perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing.

Milna

Milna is a small village located just a short drive from Hvar Town, offering a peaceful setting with beautiful beaches and coves. It’s a great choice for travelers looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the island without being too far from the main town. Milna offers a range of accommodations, including beachfront hotels and charming guesthouses.

Tips for choosing the right accommodation

• Book early: Especially during the peak summer months, accommodations can fill up quickly. Booking in advance ensures you get the best selection and rates.

• Consider location: Think about what you want to be close to, whether it's the lively atmosphere of Hvar Town, the historical sites of Stari Grad, or the serene beaches of Milna.

• Read reviews: Check reviews from other travelers to get a sense of the quality and service of the accommodations you’re considering.

By selecting the right area and type of accommodation, you can enhance your experience and make the most of your Hvar vacation. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of Hvar Town or the peaceful retreat of Milna, Hvar Island has something for everyone.

Best things to do in Hvar

Beautifully unspoiled and dotted with numerous bays and coves, Hvar Island holds plenty of allure for those seeking solitude.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Fortica: The largely intact defensive walls cascade down the hillside from the fortress toward the terracotta roofs of Hvar Town below. Beyond, you can see the deep-green shapes of the Pakleni Islands just offshore.

• Sveti Nikola: Not only is the hike up to Hvar’s highest peak fantastic, but the views are simply sensational, offering a sweeping vista of the Adriatic coastline.

The best districts

• Hvar Town: The swankiest resort on the Adriatic is full of temptations, whether you're a culture enthusiast, a Mediterranean food lover, or a cocktail bar wanderer.

• Stari Grad: Stretching along the edge of a deep bay, the island’s main port exudes a laid-back charm, with its narrow streets as atmospheric as anywhere in the Adriatic.

Museums

• Stari Grad Museum: Located in the Bianchini Palace, an impressively restored Renaissance structure from 1896, the highlight here is a spectacular Roman shipwreck.

Parks and gardens

• Tvrdalj, Stari Grad: The summer house and walled garden of the 16th-century poet and aristocrat Petar Hektorović. It has largely been divided into allotments, though a portion has been tidied up and restored to its former glory.

Historical monuments

• Arsenal, Hvar Town: Dominating the main square of Hvar Town is the arcaded bulk of the 17th-century Venetian arsenal, with its upper story adapted in 1612 to house the town theater, one of the oldest Baroque playhouses in Europe.

• Franciscan Monastery, Hvar Town: At the heart of the monastery lies the monastic church, featuring beautifully carved choir stalls and an ornate partition dating from 1583.

Day trips in the area

• Pakleni Islands: Just a short boat ride from Hvar Town, this chain of 11 wooded islands is perfect for a day of beach-hopping, swimming, and exploring hidden coves.

• Vis Island: Enjoy the unspoiled nature and clear seas of most travelers’ favorite island – and don’t miss the famous Blue Cave on the nearby Biševo Island.

Activities for families in Hvar

You could spend weeks beach-hopping on Hvar, but there are plenty of other family-oriented activities to enjoy on the island.

• Beaches: With so many beaches on the island, it’s easy to find family-friendly spots. Start with Uvala Dubovica, a large, shallow bay near Hvar Town, or Grebišće in Jelsa, which is shallow and sandy, perfect for safe paddling and playful splashing.

• Boat trips: Take a family-friendly boat trip to explore the nearby Pakleni Islands, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling along the way.

• Caving: A fantastic family adventure awaits at Grapčeva Cave, which is renowned for being one of the earliest-known sites of settled human culture on the Adriatic islands. It's a highly atmospheric place to visit, with an entrance passage leading to a large chamber adorned with stalagmites and stalactites.

Free things to do in Hvar

From glorious beaches to leisurely town strolls, there’s plenty to do on Hvar without spending a dime.

• Walking Hvar Town: Wander the Old Town’s timeless streets, exploring the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere without spending a penny.

• Beaches: You can hardly turn a corner without encountering another beach, most of which are free to access. Two of the best are Dubovica Bay near Hvar Town and Zarace, a lovely pebble beach located between Hvar Town and Stari Grad.

• Stari Grad Plain: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient agricultural landscape offers a glimpse into the island’s historical farming practices, and it's free to explore.

Nature and outdoor activities

Visits to Hvar are bound to include experiencing the great outdoors. The surrounding blue waters and hilly interior make it perfect for all kinds of activities, whether a gentle hike or bike ride, or a more adventurous pursuit like diving.

• Diving: Hvar’s crystal-clear waters attract divers from everywhere, and you can try it too. Diving Center Viking offers a range of dives, including a visit to the wreck of the English merchant ship Paulina, which was wrecked in a nearby lagoon in the 1800s.

• Water sports: The clear, gentle waters around Hvar are ideal for various water sports—windsurfing, jet-skiing, kiteboarding, and the like—though nothing beats circumnavigating the island in a kayak.

• Hiking: The island’s hilly interior is interwoven with a series of well-marked trails, and unlike the coastal resorts, you’ll likely have the hills all to yourself.

• Cycling: Being an island, Hvar’s roads are generally quiet, making cycling a pleasant experience for both casual and serious cyclists; bikes can be rented in Hvar Town and Stari Grad.

• Fishing: The waters around Hvar are rich with all kinds of fish species, so why not join a local operator in Hvar Town for a big game fishing excursion, which typically offers the option to cook your own catch.

Discover the best beaches for your Hvar vacation

Hvar Island is famous for its stunning beaches, offering a mix of vibrant hotspots and serene getaways. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly spots, Hvar's coastline has something for everyone. Here's a guide to some of the best beaches you can enjoy during your Hvar vacation.

Milna beach

Just outside Hvar Town, Milna Beach is a charming, protected cove surrounded by pine forests. Known for its clear waters, it's an ideal spot for snorkeling. The village of Milna offers a laid-back vibe with local markets and restaurants, making it perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Dubovica beach

Dubovica Beach is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Located a short drive from Hvar Town, this pebbly beach boasts crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by lush greenery. Despite its popularity, it retains a serene atmosphere. There are sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, and a beach bar for refreshments.

Mekicevica beach

A hidden gem, Mekicevica Beach is reached by a scenic 25-minute walk from Pokonji Dol. This secluded cove offers white pebbles and clear waters, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat. Nearby, Mama Pacha's Beach Bar provides covered day beds and lounge chairs, perfect for a relaxing day.

Jagodna beach

Located between the villages of Sveta Nedjelja and Ivan Dolac, Jagodna Beach is a picturesque bay with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Surrounded by greenery and distinctive red cliffs, it offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. The beach has limited shade, so it's best to visit early in the day.

Ivan Dolac beach

Ivan Dolac Beach is a popular choice for families due to its fine pebbles and calm, turquoise waters. The beach is easily accessible by car and offers amenities such as beach bars, restaurants, and water sports. Despite its popularity, the surrounding coves provide quieter spots for those seeking more privacy.

Malo Zarace beach

Malo Zarace Beach is one of Hvar’s most beautiful and secluded spots. Known for its dramatic rock formations and stunning turquoise waters, it’s perfect for photography enthusiasts and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. The beach is less crowded during the off-season, offering a peaceful retreat.

Tips for beachgoers

• Pack essentials: Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks as some beaches have limited facilities.

• Arrive early: Popular beaches can get crowded, especially during peak season.

• Wear suitable footwear: Many beaches are pebbly, so water shoes can enhance your comfort.

Hvar’s diverse beaches offer something for every traveler, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation by the sea. Whether you’re exploring secluded coves or enjoying vibrant beach clubs, the island’s coastline promises an unforgettable experience.

Being an island destination, seafood is everywhere, but there’s a cornucopia of fantastic food to be enjoyed in the island’s many fine restaurants.

Some typical dishes

• Gregada: A Hvar specialty, this is a spectacular stew of fish cooked in white wine. However, few restaurants serve it in single portions, so you’ll need to order it for two or more people to make it worthwhile.

• Pašticada: A thick beef stew slow-cooked with wine, vinegar, and spices in a rich sauce, sometimes with prunes, and served with soft gnocchi.

Meat dishes

• Ćevapi: Juicy patties of grilled minced meat served with ajvar (a pepper-based condiment) and flatbread—the classic Balkan staple.

• Peka: Slow-roasted lamb, octopus, or other local delicacies cooked under an ember-covered metal lid known as a peka, this is a traditional path to a deliciously succulent meal.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Brudet: A scrumptious fish stew comprising various types of fish, to which tomatoes and wine are added, and typically served with polenta.

• Crni rižot: One of Dalmatia's most iconic dishes, this black risotto takes its name from the main ingredient, cuttlefish ink—and the blacker the risotto, the better.

Street food

• Burek: A thick, flaky pastry packed with either minced meat, cheese, or spinach: perfect for lunch on the go.

• Fritule: Small doughnuts typically flavored with rum and citrus zest, dusted with powdered sugar—a delightful sweet street treat.

Sweets and desserts

• Rožata: A specialty from Dubrovnik, this is a vanilla-flavored custard dessert similar to crème caramel, to which rose liqueur is added.

• Kroštule: Deep-fried pastry twists dusted with powdered sugar, often enjoyed during festive occasions.

Local drinks

• Rakija: There’s nothing like a shot of rakija (grape brandy) to facilitate social interaction. Knock back a herb-infused travarica or carob-flavored rogačica for a truly heart- and soul-warming experience.

• Plavac Mali: The best-known of the local grape varieties, the rich red Plavac Mali is grown everywhere in the fertile middle of the island and along the southern coast, while the indigenous Bogdanuša grape produces an intriguing dry white.