Hvar walking tour & city guide
A sunny island town of lavender, yachts and a hilltop fortress.
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Hvar is one of the sunniest islands in Europe and the most glamorous in Croatia. Its main town, also called Hvar, wraps around a harbor full of yachts, with a large Renaissance square, stone lanes climbing the hillsides and a fortress watching over everything.
Hvar Town
St Stephen's Square, one of the largest squares in Dalmatia, runs from the harbor to the Cathedral of St Stephen with its elegant bell tower. On one side stands the Arsenal, where Venetian galleys were repaired, with one of the oldest public theaters in Europe on its upper floor, opened in 1612.
A path through pine trees and agave plants climbs to the Spanish Fortress, Fortica, with sweeping views over the town, the harbor and the Pakleni Islands. The sunset from the top is unforgettable.
Islands, beaches and villages
Water taxis leave the harbor for the Pakleni Islands, a group of small wooded islands with secluded coves, clear water and beach bars. The island of Hvar itself has quiet bays, vineyards and fields of lavender that bloom purple in June and July.
Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe, has a UNESCO-listed plain of ancient Greek fields. Jelsa and Vrboska are calmer harbor towns, and inland villages like Velo Grablje are known for lavender.
Visiting tips
Hvar is famous for its nightlife in July and August, when it can be crowded and expensive. June and September are quieter and the sea is still warm. Catamarans connect Hvar Town with Split, Korčula and Dubrovnik.
Top sights in Hvar
- 1
St Stephen's Square
A grand Renaissance square by the harbor.
- 2
Spanish Fortress
A hilltop fortress with sunset views.
- 3
Arsenal and theater
One of Europe's oldest public theaters.
- 4
Pakleni Islands
Small islands with hidden coves.
- 5
Stari Grad Plain
Ancient Greek fields, a UNESCO site.
- 6
Lavender fields
Purple fields in early summer.
Food markets & where to eat in Hvar
Hvar harbor
Seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Old town lanes
Konobas tucked into the stone streets.
Stari Grad waterfront
A calmer harbor with local tavernas.
Inland villages
Family farms serving lamb and wine.
Food to try in Hvar
Gregada
A traditional fish stew with potatoes.
Hvarska paprenjaci
Peppery honey biscuits.
Plavac mali
The island's strong red wine.
Lavender products
Oils and sachets sold at the harbor stalls.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Hvar
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in HvarCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Hvar.
- eSIM for CroatiaStay online from the moment you land.
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