

A COMPLETE 2026 TRAVEL GUIDE
The Island of Hvar, Croatia
Stretching out in the Adriatic Sea off Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, Hvar’s elongated silhouette is an uncanny reflection of a holidaymaker lounging on a deckchair, which is perfectly in keeping for the sunniest island in Europe that boasts nearly 2,800 sunshine hours yearly.
The appeal goes well beyond the weather. Hvar holds more UNESCO-listed heritage sites than any island on earth. Its beaches rank among Europe’s finest, with some of the cleanest waters on the continent. Captivating history, delectable cuisine and natural beauty all come together on one little island. It's no wonder many of our guests return year after year, always discovering new island treasures.

GETTING THERE
HOW TO GET TO HVARClosest airports: Split (SPU) and Dubrovnik (DBV)
To reach Hvar: Car ferry, catamaran, or private boat
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Surface area: 298 km2 (115 square miles)
Length: 68 km (42.3 miles)
Population: 10,678
Highest point: Sveti Nikola, 628m (2060ft)
Largest settlement: Hvar Town
ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS
Sunshine hours: 2,724 per annum
UNESCO Heritages: 6
Famous for: Beaches, sunshine, natural beauty, culture, lavender fields
Popular with: Families, couples, friend groups
HVAR TRAVEL GUIDE
Where to stay on Hvar Island

The right base on Hvar can define your entire trip. This long, narrow island packs in everything from the iconic marble-paved labyrinth of Hvar Town to secluded beachside sanctuaries, legendary party beaches, and tranquil family coves.
A common point of confusion for first-time visitors: Is Hvar a city? Or the entire island? The answer is... both! “Hvar” refers to the lively main town (Hvar Town), and the island itself is also called Hvar, with several distinct towns and dozens of smaller villages. We are here to help you understand how the island is laid out and where to stay so you can match your stay to the kind of holiday you actually want.
HVAR ISLAND GUIDE
Things to do in Hvar
Whether you’re chasing adventure or pure relaxation, quiet village squares or lively evenings, raw nature or deep-rooted culture, Hvar serves it all with that unmistakable Croatian warmth. The island’s experiences are as diverse as they are unforgettable: an Adriatic treasure that genuinely has something for everyone. Here are our some of our must-do experiences on Hvar.
- Explore Hvar Town’s marble-paved streets: Explore the Renaissance drama of Hvar Town, which reached its zenith under Venetian rule and still shows many traces of its polyglot, cosmopolitan past as a centre for Adriatic trade. The UNESCO-listed architecture tells the story of rich history and culture, while the quietly glamorous atmosphere remains one of Croatia’s most sophisticated pleasures.
- Visit the lavender fields: Best enjoyed during June and July, a visit to Hvar’s lavender fields invites a relaxed hike or a scenic drive across the island’s interior. Few sights feel as quietly magical as an endless sweep of purple under the Adriatic sun.
- Island-Hop the Dalmatian Archipelago: Hvar sits at the perfect crossroads of the central Dalmatian islands, each with its own unmistakable character. A day trip from Hvar is easy by speedboat, private yacht, or public catamaran, and many visitors combine two or three islands in a single outing.
- Plan your Hvar itinerary: To fully embrace the essence of Hvar, download our free guidebook with seven full-day itineraries that guide you through the best experiences the island has to offer.

TRAVEL JOURNALS
Plan your trip to Hvar

Hvar Travel Planning
Where to stay on Hvar Island: A 2026 guide to the island’s regions
You have a Mediterranean vacation on your mind, and you’ve heard good things about Hvar. Maybe you even visited long, long ago – for a wedding, yacht week, or a family holiday. But you are not quite sure how it all works... Is Hvar a city? Or the entire island?

Hvar Travel Planning
The best beaches on Hvar: A complete guide to the island's stunning shores
Hvar's 270 kilometres of pristine coastline rivals that of any tropical paradise. From the dramatic cliffs of the secluded southern coast to the crystalline turquoise waters of the Pakleni Islands, Hvar's beaches offer an extraordinary diversity of experiences. This journal will help you find the best spots for whatever you’re seeking: total tranquillity, family fun, a party atmosphere, or something in between.

Inspiration & Insights
Croatia travel guide 2026: what to know before you go
Let us take you through the essentials to know when planning a trip to this enchanting country in 2026, alongside an itinerary that travels through the most popular destinations, with our recommendations and travel tips.
HVAR TRAVEL TIPS
From founders and friends

LOCAL GUIDES
Hvar’s towns and villages
Explore Hvar's most delightful locations with our curated collection of local guides. Each guide unveils the island’s most charming towns, villages, or hamlets. Find insider tips on how to get there, must-sees and must-dos, and our recommended places to eat and drink.
Explore trending Hvar destinations
All local guides
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Feeling inspired? Our team have personally visited each of our villas, so we can help you find your perfect place.
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