Holiday in Hvar

What makes Hvar special as a destination?

Hvar, the longest island in the Croatian Adriatic, enchants with a unique blend of lavender scent, historical splendor, and vibrant nightlife. The island's capital, Hvar Town, boasts one of Croatia's most beautiful piazzas: St. Stephen's Square, with its Renaissance cathedral, opens directly to the harbor, where elegant yachts anchor alongside traditional fishing boats. The Spanish Fortress (Fortica) above the town offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the nearby Pakleni Islands — an archipelago of small, pine-covered islets with crystal-clear bays that can be reached by taxi boat in just a few minutes. The Pakleni Islands (especially Palmizana) are among the most beautiful bathing destinations in the entire Adriatic. Stari Grad, the second-largest town, is home to the Stari Grad Plain — a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been continuously farmed for over 2,400 years. The plots laid out by Greek colonists are still recognizable today, making this area the oldest preserved agricultural cadastre in the Mediterranean. Jelsa on the northern coast offers a quieter, more family-friendly character with beautiful pebble beaches. From June to August, Hvar Town transforms into one of the trendiest party hotspots in the Adriatic — bars like Hula Hula and Carpe Diem attract an international crowd. During the day, one can explore the island's interior by bike or scooter: lavender fields (in bloom in June), olive groves, and abandoned stone villages shape the landscape. The island's cuisine thrives on fresh fish, Gregada (traditional fish stew), and the local wine Plavac Mali. Hvar is Croatia's most glamorous island — yet it also has enough quiet corners for explorers.