Hvar Island Dalmatia, Croatia Travel Guide
Hvar’s diverse landscape is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with options for all activity levels.
Walk from Hvar Town to Fortica for scenic views. Coastal paths from Hvar Town connect to beaches like Pokonji Dol. Inland trails lead between old villages (Velo Grablje to Stari Grad or Humac). Challenge yourself with a hike to Sv. Nikola, the island's highest peak.
Enjoy scenic coastal rides or flat, easy cycling through the UNESCO-protected Stari Grad Plain, ideal for families. More challenging mountain biking routes are found in the island's interior. Bike rentals (road, mountain, electric) are widely available.
Rock climbing opportunities exist on some coastal cliffs. Cliff jumping is popular at certain spots on the Pakleni Islands and Red Rocks (exercise extreme caution). Scuba diving centers offer introductory and certified dives to explore marine life.
For activities like cliff jumping, exercise extreme caution and only attempt if you have experience and understand the risks involved.
Engage with Hvar’s rich culture through hands-on experiences and traditional events.
Runs throughout the summer, featuring concerts, theatre, and traditional music in various Hvar Town venues.
A UNESCO intangible cultural heritage event. Held annually on Maundy Thursday, it is a night-long procession through six towns on Hvar.
In Velo Grablje (late June/early July), it celebrates the lavender harvest with local products, food, and music.
Participate in a Dalmatian cooking class for a hands-on experience with local ingredients.
Find tranquility through yoga and meditation retreats, especially in quieter areas during shoulder season.
Enjoy various cultural performances, from traditional music to modern theatre, throughout the summer.
Find tranquility and rejuvenation amidst Hvar’s serene beauty.
Some smaller guesthouses or private villas, especially in quieter areas, have yoga and meditation retreats, notably in the shoulder season.
Hvar Town has popular beach clubs (e.g., Carpe Diem Beach on Stipanska island, Bonj 'les bains) with sun loungers, music, drinks, and food. Many hotels also have pools.
Restaurants and bars in Hvar Town often have live music, from local bands to jazz and DJ sets, especially during summer.
The historic Public Theatre in Hvar Town hosts plays and concerts, especially during the Hvar Summer Festival.
Hvar Town is famous for its energetic nightlife: Carpe Diem Beach (Stipanska island), Pink Champagne (indoor), Veneranda (open-air in a fortress). Nightclubs operate until early morning in peak season.
Discover local crafts, produce, and souvenirs to remember your trip.
Lavender products (soaps, oils, sachets), embroidery and lace (replicas of Hvar lace), jewelry (coral or silver), and olive wood products (hand-carved bowls, utensils).
Lavender products, local olive oil, Hvar wines, rakija, dried figs, replicas of Hvar lace, small wooden boats, or nautical-themed items.
Hvar Town has boutique shops selling fashionable clothing, swimwear, and jewelry, often catering to the luxury market.
Rent a small boat (up to 15hp, no license needed) for a day. Explore the Pakleni Islands and find your own secluded coves. This gives freedom and an unforgettable experience.
Look for local agencies or tour operators when booking specific experiences, as they often have the most up-to-date information and local insights.