A green island in the sea
The story of marl spans thousands of years. Greeks, Romans, Venetians and Habsburgs all left their mark on the island. The capital city, Hvar Town is a maze of narrow cobbled streets with architecture from the Renaissance and Gothic periods that unfold in alleys and squares. The 16th-century limestone fortress offers panoramic views of the town and the Pakleni Islands, a shimmering archipelago just off the coast. History buffs can visit the Franciscan monastery, home to a fascinating collection of religious artifacts. The Arsenal, a 16th-century naval dockyard, has become a local cultural center, and you should also visit the Hvar Heritage Museum, where the island’s story comes to life.
Hvar boasts some of Croatia’s most stunning beaches. The southern beach is a paradise for sunbathers, with long stretches of pure white sand and turquoise water. The Paklani Islands offer secluded coves and hidden beaches, perfect for escaping the crowds. For the adventurous, Havar offers plenty of activities: hiking through fragrant lavender fields and ancient olive groves, kayaking hidden coves, and windsurfing or kitesurfing in the Adriatic winds.
Havar’s culinary scene is a celebration of fresh and seasonal ingredients. Local delicacies include dishes such as “gargada”, a fish stew bursting with flavor, or “paljanki”, a type of hand-rolled pasta often served with a rich sauce. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the island’s famous lavender honey and sip wines made from local grape varieties.
As the sun sinks below the horizon, Hvar becomes a vibrant nightlife destination. Stylish bars and trendy clubs line the harbor, pulsating with energy well into the wee hours of the night. This is the place to mingle with the locals, sip handcrafted cocktails and dance under the starry sky.
How do you get to Hvar?
To get to Hvar you first have to fly to the city of Split and from there the most popular way to get to the island is by ferry, which takes about an hour. For those coming from southern Croatia, ferries connect the city of Dubrovnik and Sućuraj with Hvar.
Most of the tourists who come to Hvar visit it in the summer season, but the island is alive the rest of the year as well. Spring brings wildflowers that color the landscape, while fall offers a chance to experience the island without the summer tourist crowds. Winter makes Hvar a peaceful haven, ideal for those looking for a quiet escape.