From Ancient Settlements to Venetian Splendour by the Sea

A Short History of Hvar Town

Modern Hvar Town might be a luxury escape for the rich and famous, but underneath the marble streets and wine bars is a story that goes back thousands of years. The area has been inhabited since ancient times by the Illyrian tribes, Greek settlers and Romans, with the influence of each still found in and around Hvar Island and Hvar Town.

By the 13th century, Hvar Town had become one of the most important Venetian naval bases in the Adriatic. That Venetian rule shaped most of what you see today with the elegant stone buildings, the wide central square and the grand fortifications, all designed to defend and impress.

The Arsenal and theatre date back to the 1600s, when Hvar was not just a strategic port and naval base, but a cultural centre. Over the centuries, Hvar saw pirates, plagues, empires fall, and earthquakes, but has remained standing. These days, history and hedonism sit comfortably side by side.

Stroll, Swim and Soak Up the Charm of Croatia’s Most Stylish Island Town

Things to Do in Hvar Town

Hvar Town isn’t big, with everything you need within walking distance of the port. Part of the appeal is just wandering and seeing where each narrow laneway takes you.

St. Stephen’s Square

This is the heart of town life. A huge open plaza lined with old stone buildings, cafés, and restaurants, all framed by the Cathedral of St. Stephen at one end and the Arsenal at the other. It’s a great place to settle in with a coffee or something more substantial and people watch.

Španjola Fortress

It sits above town, watching over the harbour like it has done for centuries. The walk up takes around 15 minutes through pine trees and old walls, and the view from the top is iconic. Inside, there’s a small museum and a few shady spots to relax with a drink. Walking up to the fortress is one of the first things we do when we jump off in Hvar Town, so bring your camera and be prepared to get a little sweaty.  

The Old Theatre and Arsenal

The Arsenal was once where Venetian ships were repaired, and on top of it sits one of the oldest public theatres in Europe. The building gives you a glimpse of how important Hvar once was in the wider Mediterranean world.

Visit Franciscan Monastery

Just a few minutes’ walk from town, the Franciscan Monastery of Hvar sits right on the water with cypress trees, a peaceful cloister, and a painting-filled museum

Laneways and Lookouts

Wander uphill from the main square and you’ll find yourself in a maze of old stone alleys, passing wine cellars, little galleries, and glimpses of the sea between rooftops. Every stairway leads somewhere different.

Crystal Waters, Hidden Coves and Beach Clubs by the Bay

Where to Swim in Hvar

The best swims in Hvar are all about the setting. The water here is absurdly clear, with deep blues and turquoise shallows. While you won’t find sandy beaches in the town itself, but there are plenty of easy and unforgettable spots to cool off.

Pokonji Dol

About a 20-minute walk from town, this beach sits in a wide bay with views of a little island lighthouse. The beach itself is pebbly, but there’s space to stretch out and two restaurants just behind for lunch or a drink. It’s a solid option for a lazy day in the sun.

Bonj Beach

A stone’s throw from town and home to the famous Bonj les Bains beach club. You don’t need to rent a lounger to enjoy the setting, but if you want a day of comfort, drinks, and dips, this is the place. The vibe is chic but still relaxed.

Rock Swimming Spots

Walk west past Hula Hula and you’ll find locals sprawled out on sun-baked stone platforms, diving straight into the sea. No queues, no music, no crowds, just pure Adriatic bliss.

Pakleni Islands

If you come back to Hvar, get a water taxi to the Pakleni Islands. Palmizana is the most developed, but if you’re up for a bit of walking you’ll find more hidden coves with almost nobody around. These islands are why people fall in love with sailing Croatia.

From Grilled Fish to Fine Wine – Hvar’s Food Scene Has It All

Where to Eat in Hvar Town

Hvar Town has casual seafood spots, slow dinners in shaded courtyards, and a few fine dining experiences that genuinely deliver. Hvar caters to both the yacht set and the barefoot crowd, and the food reflects that balance.

Giaxa

Set inside a 15th-century palace, this is a refined but approachable restaurant serving creative takes on Dalmatian classics. Expect local ingredients, elegant plating, and a serious wine list.

Dalmatino

Always busy, always reliable. Great for seafood, steaks, and standout service. A go-to for travellers and return visitors who want a good meal without any fuss.

Lungo Mare

Hidden slightly away from the main drag, this family-run spot feels more like a home kitchen. The prices are friendlier and the portions are generous. Expect grilled fish, octopus salad, and carafes of local wine.

Fig Café

A fun spot for breakfast or lunch, with globally inspired flavours and lots of veggie options. Think mango salsa, flatbreads, and big colourful bowls.

High-End Restaurants and Bars

If you’re in the mood to splash out, Hvar can deliver white tablecloths, candlelit terraces, and amazing wine.

Gariful

Right on the harbour, this is where celebrities and superyacht captains come to make a scene. Seafood is the star, and the wine list runs deep. Book ahead and ignore your budget.

BB Club and Riva Marina Terrace

Part of the Riva Marina Hotel, this spot blends hotel polish with casual glam. Great for a long lunch or early drinks with views of the whole waterfront.

Beach Club Hvar

Not your typical beach bar. White cushions, chilled rosé, and polished service right on the water. It’s not cheap, but it’s the kind of spot where everything looks better in the afternoon light.

Sunset Cocktails, Island Clubs and Parties That Last Till Dawn

Hvar Nightlife

Hvar’s nightlife is legendary for a reason. It starts slow and laid-back, then somehow you’re on a boat heading to a club on an island. Whether you’re here for a quiet drink or a night that ends with shoes in hand, Hvar has options.

Warm up spots

Hula Hula

Right on the rocks by the sea. Come for the sunset, stay for the music and drinks. Things heat up quickly, so don’t be surprised if the warm-up becomes the main event. A favourite of ours and almost anyone who visits. 

Ka’Lavanda

Creative cocktails, creative use of lavender, and a good chill out spot. Ease into the night and catch up with your crew.

Lola Bar

Hidden in a little courtyard with cushions, plants, and a DJ playing eclectic sets. It feels like someone’s backyard party in the best way.

Late-night options

Carpe Diem

Start at the waterfront bar, then catch the boat to their private island club. Dancing under the stars with international DJs and a crowd from all over the world. It’s a Hvar rite of passage.

Kiva Bar

Grungy, packed, and totally chaotic. Sweaty, dirty, shots, music, wild and pure fun.

Seven

A more upscale nightclub with serious sound and a late-night crowd. If you want to end the night dressed up with a proper DJ, this is your place.

Getting There and Timing It Right

How to Get to Hvar Town

Most travellers arrive via ferry from Split, which is the quickest and most popular route. The ride takes around 1 hour on a catamaran and drops you right in the middle of town. In peak season, boats run multiple times a day and tend to sell out fast, so it’s worth booking ahead.

You can also reach Hvar Town from Dubrovnik, Korčula, or Brač via ferry, though schedules are more limited. If you’re sailing with us you the best view of the town’s famous harbour from the water.

Best Time to Visit Hvar

Hvar Town gets about 2700 hours of sunshine a year, so there’s really no bad time to come.

June and September are ideal. Warm weather, swimmable seas, and fewer crowds than the peak of summer. The town still feels lively, but without the queues.

July and August are the busiest months. The harbour is packed, the parties are bigger, and everything stays open late. If you’re here for nightlife, this is when it’s at its peak.

May and October are shoulder season gems. Quieter streets, mild days, and a more relaxed pace. Not everything will be open, but if you’re after history, hiking, or wine, it’s a great time to come.

Festivals and Events in Hvar Town

For a small town, Hvar loves an event. Some are rooted in history, others are more about the partying, and all worth checking out if you’re in town.

Hvar Summer Festival (July–August)
A mix of classical concerts, theatre, jazz, and dance performances held in historical venues like the Arsenal and fortress. 

Feast of St. Stephen (August)
The patron saint of Hvar Town is celebrated with religious processions, local food, and live music. It’s one of the most authentic local events of the summer.

Ultra Europe After Parties (mid-July)
Following the Ultra Music Festival in Split, Hvar hosts official after parties with international DJs and big crowds. Think beach clubs, boat parties, and serious energy.

Lavender Festival (late June, inland in Velo Grablje)
Not in Hvar Town itself, but worth a mention. Lavender has been grown on Hvar for centuries, and this little inland festival celebrates it with workshops, food stalls, and traditional music.