Pre-Trip Checklist: Hvar Island

Essential Preparations

Plan your trip in stages, taking on items at appropriate times.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Strategize your trip by timing actions.

+ Months Before

Book Flights & Accommodation

Early booking for high season travel often yields better prices.

Passport & Visa Validity

Passport valid for 3 months beyond Schengen departure, issued within 10 years.

Travel Insurance

Research coverage options for medical, cancellations, and luggage. Consider World Nomads.

-2 Months Before

Book Popular Ferries

Critical for popular catamaran routes in peak season, as tickets sell out.

Plan Activities & Tours

Research and book any tours (e.g., Blue Cave tour) or popular activities.

Car/Scooter Rental

Book vehicles in advance for Hvar, specifically high season. IDP might be needed.

Month Before

Finalize Insurance

Finalize and pay for your chosen travel insurance policy.

Local SIM/eSIM

Research providers and acquire a tourist SIM or eSIM plan.

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates to prevent fraud alerts.

Required Advance Bookings

Early reservations for these items are wise.

Reservations

Flights and accommodation.
Popular ferry routes (especially high-speed catamarans).
Private boat tours (like the Blue Cave tour).
Car or scooter rentals, especially for high season.

Pre-Trip Research

Insightful Learning

Read up on Hvar's history, culture, and local etiquette.
Familiarize yourself with local transportation options on the island.
Understand the different towns and choose your base thoughtfully.
This knowledge makes navigation easier.

Home Preparation

Secure your home and manage logistics for your absence.

Security

Secure your home.
Suspend mail deliveries.
Inform trusted neighbors of your absence.
Check alarm systems.

Care & Maintenance

Arrange for plant care.
Manage pet sitting arrangements.
Turn off unnecessary water sources.
Unplug electronics to save energy.

Emergency Contacts

Ensure an emergency contact at home.
Leave important instructions for caretakers.
Provide spare keys to trusted individuals.
Set up timed lights for security.

Important Document Tip

Before leaving home, make physical and digital copies of your passport and other important documents. Keep them separate from the originals.

Arrival Checklist

Follow these steps upon arriving in Croatia for a smooth transition.

First Steps

1
Clear Immigration
At your point of entry (e.g., Split Airport).
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your bags from the carousel.
3
Local Currency / Transfer
Locate an ATM to withdraw Euros or connect with your pre-booked transfer.

Orientation & Essentials

Check-in
Head directly to your accommodation to check in and drop off bags.
Local Map & Walk
Obtain a local map and take a walk around your immediate neighborhood.
Initial Purchases
Exchange cash or withdraw from ATM; pick up bottled water or snacks.

Transportation Upon Arrival

From Split Airport

Follow your pre-planned transfer options to Split Ferry Port.

Taxis and airport buses are readily available.

Ferry to Hvar

Take the chosen ferry to Hvar (Hvar Town or Stari Grad).

Ensure you have your tickets ready for boarding.

From Hvar Port to Accommodation

Upon arrival at Hvar's port, take a taxi or local bus to your accommodation.

Many accommodations are within walking distance in Hvar Town.

Quick Start

Checking into your accommodation and getting a local map are great first steps to orient yourself upon arrival.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a relaxed departure from Hvar.

Departure Logistics

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure to bypass last-minute rush.
Arrange shipping for large items like wine or olive oil with a local service in advance.
Non-EU residents: Validate VAT refund forms at the airport or port before departing the EU/Schengen area.
Allow ample time for transfers from your Hvar accommodation to the ferry and then to Split Airport.

Travel Day Details

Reconfirm your return flights and ferry schedules.
Ferry delays might occur, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Try to be at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.
Pack efficiently, keeping important documents (passport, boarding passes) readily accessible.

Departure Day Overview

checkpoints for your journey home.

Final Reminders

Check-out from accommodation:On time
Transfer to Hvar Port:Booked ahead
Ferry departure:Reconfirmed
Airport check-in:2-3 hours before flight

Post-Trip Planning

Organize your photos and videos from Hvar.
Share your experiences with friends and family.
Begin dreaming about your next Croatian adventure.
Reflect on the memories made and lessons learned.

Departure Note

Reconfirm all bookings (flights, ferries, accommodation) shortly before your departure from Hvar.

This avoids last-minute surprises.

Pre-Trip Checklist