Hvar Island

Hvar Town with the Pakleni Islands offshore

Lately, it's become one of Croatia's most visited islands, attracting a diverse crowd of backpackers, yachties, honeymooners and pretty much anyone who visits southern Dalmatia.  

The island of Hvar is extraordinarily green and lush, filled with lavender, heather and pines and the coastline is heavily indented with an abundance of rocky coves. See a map of Hvar Island or see Hvar Island on a map.

What to See & Do on Hvar Island

As if the natural splendors weren't enough, Hvar Island also has a fascinating history, derived from its many years of Venetian rule. That's why you'll find the best preserved Venetian architecture in Croatia displayed in stunning Hvar Town.

Hvar Town makes an excellent base for exploring the island but Stari Grad on the northern coast is another possibility for a stay. Try to visit the tiny port of Jelsa, the picturesque village of Vrboska or the even more miniscule port of Milna on the southern coast. Most wonderful are the day trips offered to the offshore Pakleni Islands, which also offer excellent scuba diving on the Vodnjak reef.

Hvar Island is also great for an active holiday with plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking and sailing. See more.

And, you don't need to go to bed early because Hvar Island nightlife is the best on the Adriatic.

Hvar's famous lavendar

Getting to Hvar Island

There are three ports of entry for ferries to Hvar Island: Stari Grad and Sucuraj which receive car ferries and Hvar Town which receives passenger boats. Find out more about getting to Hvar Island.

Accommodation on Hvar Island

Accommodation is extremely tight in the summer; an advance reservation is highly recommended. Most people stay in Hvar Town as it is the most beautiful but Stari Grad and Jelsa make good alternative places to stay on Hvar Island. Both are cheaper and somewhat quieter than Hvar Town with its busy nightlife. See Hvar Island accommodation.

    Tourist Information on Hvar Island

There is no central source of official information about the island. Each town maintains its own tourist office.

Related Pages

Hvar Adventure Holidays

Hvar Town

Stari Grad

Jelsa

Vrboska

Hvar Accommodation

Hvar Island Private Accommodation

Video of Hvar Island

Hvar History

Map of Hvar Island

Getting to Croatia

More Destinations in Dalmatia

Further Resources

Hvar Island Guide

Hvar Island Forum --questions and answers about Hvar Island

Hvar Island blog --travel news about Hvar Island

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