Best Hvar Itinerary: How to Spend few Perfect Days

If you’re looking for the perfect Hvar Itinerary, you’ve come to the right place. Spending a few days on Hvar Island is just enough time to see the highlights, relax on some of the most beautiful beaches, and even hop over to nearby islands. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best place to stay, the best things to do, and how to spend the perfect few days in Croatia’s most loved island.

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Where to stay in Hvar?

A Little Bit About Hvar

The Island of Hvar is typically known as Croatia’s party island.  Yes, the nightlife here is a big part of the vibe. But honestly, what I love most is that it’s so much more than that. There are beautiful beaches, a charming old town, little shops, and lavender stalls. My favorites were the beach bars and local restaurants where I got to watch the sunset with the best views.

Hvar Island also has a really interesting history and has roots that go back to ancient times. The Greeks founded Stari Grad in 384 BC, and it’s one of the oldest towns in Europe. Around Hvar Town, I also noticed Venetian influences in the architecture.

For me, it’s the mix that makes Hvar special. There are lively nights if you want a party scene, but also quiet beaches, history, and beautiful views.

Hvar is also one of the sunniest places in Europe, with around 300 days of sunshine a year. This is the perfect place if you’re a beach lover. So here, I’ve gathered all my favorite things to help you plan your own trip, which should absolutely be on your Croatia itinerary.

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Hvar Itinerary: Things to Do

Hike to the Spanish Fortress

To get to the Spanish Fortress, I started in the heart of Hvar town. We took the path from the main square up through the stone steps. It’s a little steep, but it only takes about 20 minutes to reach the top.

At the top, are really great views of Hvar Town, the harbor, and the Pakleni Islands in the distance. We were told to come back at sunset for even more beautiful views. That’s when the light hits the rooftops and the water turns golden. 

There is also a small museum inside the fortress, but the real highlight is the view.

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Explore Hvar Town

Walking through Hvar Town is, in my opinion, the best way to get a feel for the island. The waterfront promenade is such a vibe, with beautiful boats and yachts docked along the harbor. It’s especially fun in the evening when the sun is setting. Even though the boats block the sunset view, the atmosphere is still beautiful. I walked up and down the harbor and it was lively, with cafés full of people and lots of energy everywhere.

From there, walk to the main square, which is the heart of Hvar Town. Make sure to climb up the Arsenal Balcony for more great views over the square and the Adriatic Sea. But, one of my favorite parts was walking through the main town and getting lost in the maze of narrow and old streets.  

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Visit Stari Grad Old Town on your Hvar Itinerary

Stari Grad is one of the oldest towns in Europe, founded by the Greeks in 384 BC. We rented a car for the day to explore few beaches and stopped by Stari Grad in the afternoon on the way back.

What to do in Stari Grad?

Visit Tvrdalj Castle

Tvrdalj Castle is one of the most interesting places to see in Stari Grad. It was once the summer residence of Croatian poet Petar Hektorović, and today it’s open to the public. You can walk inside and explore the quiet courtyard. The main attraction is the stone fish pond in the middle, surrounded by arches and carved details. It’s not a large place, about 30 minutes is enough to see it. But it feels peaceful and is definitely worth a stop on your Hvar itinerary.

I liked that it gives you a little glimpse into the history of the island while still being quick and easy to visit. You don’t need much time here, but the setting is unique and photogenic. It’s a nice break while wandering around Stari Grad Old Town.

Tip: Hours are 10am–2pm, then again 5pm–8pm, so plan your visit around the midday closure. Entry is €5.

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Wander Stari Grad Old Town

Walking through the old town feels completely different from Hvar Town. It’s much quieter with tons of little squares and beautiful flowers. I loved wandering without a plan, just stopping at cafés and enjoying the laid-back vibe. It’s definitely a town with a much slower pace.

Stroll the Waterfront

The harbor in Stari Grad feels so calm compared to busy Hvar Town. I liked walking by the water, looking at the small boats tied up and the reflections in the sea. There are a few little cafés right on the waterfront where you can sit down, have a drink, and watch the slow pace of local life. It felt more authentic here, less touristy, and a nice way to relax after wandering the town.

Check Out the Small Squares

As you walk through the stone streets of Stari Grad, you’ll pass through small squares between the old buildings. Some have cafés where people sit outside, others are just quiet open spots with benches and shade. I liked that every square felt a little different, and finding them made exploring more fun. They’re simple, but that’s exactly what makes Stari Grad so charming and why it should be on your Hvar itinerary.

Stop for Dinner or Coffee

Stari Grad has some really nice places to eat and drink. I ate at Antika and loved the fresh seafood and pasta, especially sitting outside. It’s tucked away on a quiet street, and the atmosphere was amazing. It was such a cool experience eating in one of the oldest towns in Europe. But you don’t have to plan a big meal to enjoy Stari Grad. Even just grabbing a coffee or a glass of wine at a small café is a great way to enjoy the town. 

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Drive Up to Napoleon Fortress for epic views

If you rent a car, this is a great place to visit after Stari Grad. We drove up to Napoleon Fortress after Stari Grad. The road was steep with cliffs and sharp turns with no barriers — a little intense! But at the top, you get beautiful views of Hvar Town, red rooftops, turquoise bays, and tiny islands scattered along the coast. This is easily one of the best panoramas and a must-see on your Hvar itinerary.

Add Wine Tasting to your Hvar Itinerary

Hvar isn’t just about beaches and nightlife, there is also amazing wineries. I loved learning that the island has been making wine since ancient Greek times. There are so many local wineries to visit and taste some really unique wines that you won’t find anywhere. Spending an afternoon at a vineyard was the perfect change of pace from the beach or old town. If you are a wine lover, definitely put this on your Hvar Itinerary.

Hvar Itinerary: Best Beaches to visit

Drive to Dubovica Beach

This is one of the most popular beaches that we found on our Hvar itinerary. You do have to drive there. Dubovica Beach is about 20 minutes from Hvar Old Town. We parked right on the road, then it was a 10-minute hike down to the beach.

It’s a wide pebble beach with some of the crystal clear waters on the island. There’s a rustic stone house by the shore that makes this one of the most photographed beaches.

The beach is pretty secluded with beautiful scenery. There are a few shaded spots under the trees, but no chairs to rent. There are two small beach restaurants and a little rock to jump from. Arrive early for parking and to enjoy it before the crowds.

Stop by Zarace Beach (Malo & Velo)

On the way back from Dubovica, you can add a stop at Zarace Beach to your Hvar itinerary. To get here, you turn off the main road onto a winding and very narrow road. I drove extra slow, especially around the curves, since it’s a one-lane road with two-way traffic, so be careful!

The beaches are at the bottom, and once you get down you’ll see two small coves, Malo Zarace and Velo Zarace. They are split by a rocky ridge that goes out into the sea.

Both are pebble beaches with turquoise water. These have a more tucked-away feel and tons of natural beauty, compared to the busier beaches near town. It’s quiet, scenic, and perfect if you want something a bit more low-key.

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Swim at Pokonji dol Beach

This beach isn’t directly in town. Pokonji Dol Beach is a 25-minute walk or a 10-minute drive from the old town. There are taxis right outside the gates and cost €20 anywhere on the island. Once you get to the beach, it’s a short rocky path down to the water.

Pokonji dol Beach is pebbly and has beautiful crystal clear waters. There are stairs to get in and a few places where you can jump from into the sea. You can also rent sunbeds on the rocks for €40 for two beds and an umbrella. I highly suggest renting it, especially if you are spending the day or even half a day, as it’s much more comfortable. There’s also a small restaurant and a bathroom for €1.

Since it’s a bit away from the main part of town, it’s much quieter, not too crowded, and very clean. If you want that peaceful experience, I recommend adding this beach to your Hvar itinerary and coming early in the morning.

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Relax at Bonj Beach

This place is known as one of the most popular and stylish beaches in Hvar. Bonj Beach is also one of the most convenient because it’s so close to the heart of Hvar town. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the center. We followed the coastal path west from the harbor and it was pretty easy to find. 

Bonj has a luxury beach club with loungers and cabanas to rent. You can get cocktails by the water. It has a lively vibe. The beach is set against a beautiful white stone colonnade built in the 1920s, this is such a unique backdrop! The water here is clear and refreshing, and there are ladders where you can go straight down into the sea. If you want a luxurious experience, add Bonj Beach to your Hvar itinerary.

The entire area is a long strip with lots of beach clubs and places to lie out or rent loungers. Bonj was the perfect beach to go to when I didn’t want to leave town. It was within walking distance and really convenient.

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Chill at Falko Beach Bar

Falko is a laid-back beach bar just a short walk from Hvar Town. It’s a beautiful place located right by the water with a small beach. There are plenty of shade, cozy seating, and a relaxed vibe.

The perfect time to visit is in the afternoon and stay for sunset. You can grab a cold drink, order some food, and enjoy the view of the sea without the crowds. It felt more local and low-key compared to the bigger beach clubs.

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Swim at Franciscan Monastery Beach

This little beach is right in Hvar Town and next to the Franciscan Monastery. It’s super easy to get to, just follow the promenade to the monastery and you can’t miss it. It’s perfect if you’re staying in town and just want a quick swim.

The beach is small and pebbly, and it had calm waters when I visited. There are also lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent. It looked like there was a mix of locals and visitors. It’s nothing big, but it’s convenient, has the pretty backdrop of the monastery, and is a nice spot to include on your Hvar itinerary.

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Hvar Itinerary: Boat Day Trip to Pakleni Islands

A boat day trip to the Pakleni Islands is a must add on to any Hvar itinerary! The water here is crystal-clear, and you get to see a completely different side of the island. From dramatic red cliffs to quiet coves and lively island restaurants, spending a day on the water will feel like the ultimate coastal escape. You can experience this two ways: renting a private boat or joining a group tour. 

Boat Rental Options

Private boat rental. This is the option I chose, and I highly recommend it, especially if you are traveling with family, friends, or just want flexibility. I got to customize the route, stop wherever we wanted, and spend as much time as we’d like in each spot. It was also a really nice way to have a more personal day together with your group. I went with my family, and that gave us a chance to really bond in a fun way.

Group boat rental.  This is more of a budget friendly option. While the tour is not customized, everything is planned. And you still get to see all the main highlights like the Red Rocks, Pakleni Islands, and tons of different coves. If you’re traveling solo, it’s also a fun way to meet new people.

The Experience

Renting a boat for the full day was such a memorable experience. One of the most popular and unique highlights was stopping at the Red Rocks (Crvene Stijene). These are giant rocks that have a red glow. This is because of the iron in the limestone, and these cliffs look so dramatic rising from the water. Our boat stopped here for a little bit, and I got to jump off and swim under the cliffs. This was such an unforgettable experience!

We also passed by Dubovica Beach which I had visited by car a few days before so we didnt stop. But seeing it from the water gave me a whole new perspective. Later we stopped for lunch at Palmižana, the largest of the Pakleni Islands. It had a lively marina, a few restaurants right on the water, and the perfect island vibe. We took a long lunch break at a restaurant Bacchus Palmižana.

Honestly, a boat day to the Pakleni Islands was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Beautiful views, tons of swimming, and just being out on the Adriatic Sea, this is something I’d do again in a heartbeat. Pakleni Islands is a must add on to your Hvar itinerary.

Hvar Itinerary: Where to Eat in Hvar

Lola Bar (dinner + cocktails, trendy vibe)

If you’re putting together your Hvar itinerary, I cannot express enough how great this place is! Lola Bar was one of the most fun places we ate at in Hvar. It’s a bar and a restaurant, with tons of outdoor seating right on a lively street. Inside, they have a DJ, but since the walls are open with big windows, you can hear the music outside too. 

We actually came here because our kids wanted tacos (not traditional Croatian food), but honestly, those were some of the best tacos we’ve ever had! I ordered a cocktail called the Elton John, and it was incredible. We ended up trying a few more dishes, and everything was so good. Since the place was close to our hotel, we passed it daily. It always seemed to be crowded. But if you go right at opening, 6pm, which is when I went, I had no problem getting a table. 

We loved it so much that we came back almost every night for a snack or a drink. I also recommended Lola Bar to a few people, and they all told me it was one of the best meals on their Hvar Itinerary too!

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Fig Hvar (lunch/brunch/dinner)

This is a delicious little restaurant where you can eat either breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s located on a narrow alley and has a few outdoor tables. It feels super cozy! The food is absolutely delicious. Just note that they only serve lunch from 1pm, so before that, it’s breakfast only. No reservations here, it’s first-come, first-served.

Dalmatino (dinner, reservations required)

This is one of the most popular restaurants in Hvar, and it’s definitely more of a high-end and a splurge place. Dalmatino restaurant is just down the street from Lola Bar. The service was some of the best I’ve had in years, and they even surprised us with a few complimentary items. The food was incredible, and the location makes it even better. It’s right on a lively street, full of energy at night, surrounded by lots of other local restaurants and bars. I absolutely recommend it.

Giaxa (fine dining)

Giaxa is tucked away on a quiet alley, with tables right outside on the cobblestone street. The setting is beautiful and feels a little more hidden. The food was delicious and we even got a free appetizer. I ordered the truffle ravioli, which was amazing.

Antika in Stari Grad (pasta + seafood)

We ate at Antika in Stari Grad during our rental car day trip. After beach hopping, we stopped in town on the way back. As stated previously, Stari Grad is one of the oldest towns in Europe, and eating in the heart of it felt really special. 

I first heard about this restaurant on social media, and after reading all the great reviews, we decided to give it a try. I’m really glad we did! The food was excellent, and the chef even came out to mingle and make sure everyone was enjoying their meals. 

The atmosphere was pretty relaxed, and paired with such great food, I can see why Antika is hyped up. It’s definitely worth making a reservation, make sure to request outdoor seating.

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Hvar Itinerary: Bars & Nightlife

BackLane craft bar 

This is an incredible craft cocktail bar tucked into a cozy nook with tables outside on the cobblestone street. It has a very high rating on Google, so we decided to give it a try and add it to our Hvar itinerary. When the waiter came over, he asked what type of drink I liked. I described it, and they made a custom cocktail just for me, and it was delicious. The vibe here is chill and relaxing, not loud at all.

Lola Bar

Even though I already mentioned it for dinner, I wanted to highlight Lola Bar again for drinks. The vibe here is super fun, with a live DJ and really good cocktails. It’s one of those spots you’ll probably come back to, more than once, I did!

Central Park Club

This place is located on the same lively street as Dalmatino and Lola Bar. It’s right on the corner next to one of the prettiest stair street decorated with flowers. Central Park Club actually has tables set up on the stairs going up, which is such a cool touch. They serve food, cocktails, and have live music. It’s a super fun and happening place, especially at night.

Carpe Diem Beach Bar

Carpe Diem is one of the most iconic nightlife places in Hvar. It’s located right by the water, with views of tons of fancy yachts all around. The atmosphere is stylish and loungy, with a huge outdoor private section that’s super aesthetic. It’s fancy and high-end, and the prices reflect that, but it’s definitely a fun Hvar experience.

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Hvar

When is the Best Time to Visit Hvar?

Choosing the right time to visit can really shape your Hvar experience. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

April, May, September and October: Shoulder Season 

The shoulder season is a great time to visit. The weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. You’ll have enough time to enjoy the old town without feeling rushed, and it’s easier to find tables at restaurants without the stress of high season hustle. If the weather is nice, it’s also easier to plan a boat day or explore the Pakleni Islands without the big summer crowds.

June – August: Peak Season

The summer months are the busiest in Hvar, with long days, hot weather, and lots of tourists. This is when the city is at its liveliest, but also the most crowded and expensive. If you visit during this time, plan to start your sightseeing early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and big crowds. You’ll want to book hotels, restaurants, and cable car tickets well in advance.

November – March: Off-season

The off-season is much quieter, and some attractions, shops, and restaurants may close or have limited hours. However, if you’re not a fan of crowds and don’t mind cooler weather, this can be a quiet time to explore the Old Town. Just keep in mind that swimming spots and boat trips might not be available during these months.

How to get to Hvar?

The easiest way to get to Hvar is by ferry. Most people arrive from Split or Dubrovnik, which have a large ferry port with regular connections to the island. We actually came from Korcula and had no issues booking the passenger ferry via Omio. It drops you right in the center of Hvar Town. Once you arrive, everything in Hvar Town is pretty easy to reach on foot.

How to get around Hvar?

The best way to get around Hvar Town is on foot. The old town is compact, and most of the main sights, such as the Spanish Fortress, the main square, and the waterfront promenade, are all within walking distance. I think that the narrow stone streets and little alleys are best enjoyed by walking anyway.

If you want to explore more of the island, the easiest way is to rent a car or scooter for the day. That way, you can reach beaches like Dubovica or Zaraće, or even drive out to Stari Grad. Taxis and boats are also available, but if you’re staying in Hvar Town itself, like I did, you can walk almost everywhere.

Is Hvar safe to visit?

In my experience, Hvar felt like one of the safest places I’ve ever visited. It’s the kind of city where people leave their bags and belongings on the beach without worrying. I didn’t see or hear of any pickpockets, which is very different from places like Rome and Paris, where you always have to be cautious.

Everyone we met in Hvar was so friendly and welcoming. The city is also extremely clean—the streets almost sparkle! There’s no trash or litter lying around, and the whole place feels very well cared for.

If you’re worried about safety, Hvar is a destination where you can relax and truly enjoy without constantly being on guard.

Language, do I need to speak Croatian?

You don’t need to worry about speaking Croatian when visiting Hvar. Most people speak English very well, and we never had any language barrier during our trip. In restaurants, shops, and even small local places, communication was always easy.

That said, it’s always respectful to learn a few basic Croatian phrases like “hello” (bok), “thank you” (hvala), and “goodbye” (doviđenja). Locals really appreciate it when visitors make a small effort to use their language.

Are there Good Beaches in Hvar?

Absolutely! One of the things I love about Hvar is that it is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, so finding a place to swim is never hard.

There are so many beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters. A few are right in or next to the main town, while others are little coves tucked under cliffs or a little away along the coast (if you’re up for exploring). When I took a boat out to the Pakleni Islands, I couldn’t believe how many gorgeous spots there were to jump in. Even if you only spend one day in Hvar, you can still fit in some beach time.

One thing to note is that most beaches here are pebbly, not sandy, so I highly recommend bringing water shoes. But the crystal clear waters make it impossible to stay away, especially on a hot day!

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