Hvar Island in Croatia
Hvar is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean. Here you can discover the best beaches on the Croatian island, must-visit attractions, and culinary delights that you shouldn't miss.
The beautiful Adriatic island of Hvar is located in southern Croatia, directly off the Dalmatian coast. With an area of around 297 km², it is the fourth largest island in Croatia and the second largest in Dalmatia. Hvar is often considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world, and it's no wonder given the many highlights the island has to offer. Here you will find all the tips and information you need for a vacation in Hvar.
Island beauty Hvar
How Beautiful a Vacation on Hvar Is
Hvar is impressively beautiful. If you are planning a trip to Croatia, this island should definitely be on your list. There are numerous opportunities to discover amazing beaches and bays while strolling through stunning landscapes.
From Germany, traveling by car is quite feasible depending on your region. Although it will take you several hours, you will have your car on-site and can take fantastic excursions in the area. If you prefer to fly and rent a car, you can take a plane to Split. From Split, it's not far to Hvar, as you can take a ferry that reaches Stari Grad in about two hours. You will pay approximately €43 per car, and an additional €5-6 per person.
Hvar is relatively long and narrow and can easily be explored by car. The town of Stari Grad is the most lively - here you will find great cafés and restaurants, and the town harbor is a real highlight. Be sure to spend a few hours wandering through the beautiful, slightly weathered streets, take a stroll by the harbor, and check out some of the attractions. Similar to other Croatian cities, you will find some unique remnants from the past that you should explore. Along the coast, you will also discover many other small villages that have not lost their medieval charm.
Party Vacation in Hvar?
In the island capital of Hvar, things have been a bit louder in recent years, as the Croatian island has become a real party hotspot. Between June and September, you will find plenty of options for beach parties and in the numerous bars. However, we can assure you that you will always find a quiet spot in Hvar, as similar to Mallorca, there are certain areas where party tourists tend to gather. Outside of this zone, it remains relaxed.
The Best Beaches on Hvar
Hvar's beaches are uniquely diverse. Around the entire island, there are several sandy and pebble beaches and bays to discover. We have listed the best beaches on Hvar for you here:
- Pokonji Dol Beach: This sandy beach is located to the west near the capital Hvar. There is a Mediterranean restaurant with fresh fish, and if you want to stay right by this bay, you can even rent an apartment here.
- Mlaska Beach: The sandy beach in the east of Hvar borders a campsite. There is also a restaurant and a small supermarket.
- Lonely Beach: This beach is located in the northeast of the island. Follow the address Uvala Bristova bb, 21468, Bogomolje, to reach this small pebble beach in a bay. Here you can find fresh fish at the restaurant near the Robinson Braco holiday apartments, where you can also rent accommodations.
- Stara Beach: About two kilometers west of Lonely Beach is this beach beauty. Enjoy the small pebble bay with its crystal-clear water.
- Pakomina Beach: This beach is located in the north of Hvar, above Gdinj. It is a picturesque pebble cove.
- Veliki Pokrvenik Beach: This bay is also in the north of the island and is absolutely charming and beautiful.
- Dubovica Beach: This tip refers to a cove in the southwest of Hvar, which features crystal-clear water.
Excursion to the Hell Islands
A very special bathing experience awaits you on the so-called 'Hell Islands', also known as Pakleni Otoci. This is a lovely little island chain located just off the west coast of Hvar, waiting with small hidden beaches, secluded bays, and rocky terraces. The islands are particularly popular with fans of naturism, as there are idyllic beaches on Jerolim and Sveti Klement for a naturist vacation. One of the most beautiful beaches here is undoubtedly Mlini Beach in the southwest of Marinkovac.
Diving and Snorkeling in Hvar
If you do not want to spend your vacation on Hvar lazily at the beach, it is worthwhile to join one of the many guided snorkeling or diving excursions. The crystal-clear water and attractive underwater world around Hvar with its surrounding islands and reefs create a fantastic paradise for snorkelers and divers. At the famous Hell Islands, you can also surf or water ski - the equipment can conveniently be rented on-site.
Attractions in Hvar
How about a thorough sightseeing tour in between? Few other cities are better suited for this than the significant, historically rich capital of the island, Hvar. Surrounded by breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes, the beautiful harbor city offers plenty to see. Particularly at sunset, excursions to the historic fortifications, such as Napoleon's Fortress, are a must, as you can enjoy fantastic views of the harbor and the sea from here. Many of the mentioned buildings are impressive testimonies of the island's tumultuous history and should definitely be on the bucket list of any visitor to Hvar:
- Tvrdava Fortica - the Spanish Fortress of Hvar (in the east of the island)
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Franciscan Monastery
- Benedictine Monastery
- Theater of Hvar
- Napoleon's Fortress in Hvar (northeast of the island capital)
Hvar is an Island for Food Lovers
What could be better than ending a perfect vacation day in a restaurant located directly on the beach? The freshly prepared dinner is delicious, the wine pairs perfectly, and the magical sea view completes this delightful moment. The island is especially popular not only among those seeking relaxation and active vacationers, but also among friends of good taste. This primarily refers to local wines, such as the Dalmatian red wine variety Plavac Mali. Even before the major tourism wave, the inhabitants of this nearly 70 km long island relied on fishing and agriculture, particularly in vineyards, olives, lavender, and rosemary.
Even today, winemaking plays a significant role, and passionate wine connoisseurs return here again and again to sample the local premium wines. Enjoy a delicious Mediterranean dish in a warm atmosphere, and the meal is perfect - savor the hospitality of the Croatians!
Book Your Vacation on Hvar
So, how about it - do you have any beach vacations planned for this year or next year? If not, now you know where to go. You can't go wrong with this dream vacation island. From May to October, there are wonderfully warm temperatures, and depending on the resort, you can spend quiet or action-packed vacation days with your partner or the whole family. Make sure to check out our current offers and plan your vacation in Hvar!