Discover Hvar

Hvar is an island in the Adriatic off the Dalmatian coast of Croatia. Most visitors arrive by catamaran or car ferry from Split, which has the nearest major airport, with the crossing to Hvar Town taking around an hour.

The season runs from May to October. July and August are the warmest and liveliest, with lavender in bloom in early summer, while May, June, September and October are quieter, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Hvar is known for pebble beaches and clear coves rather than long sandy stretches. Around Hvar Town, President's Beach and the coves along the coast are popular, and the nearby Pakleni Islands have some of the clearest water in the area.

The Pakleni Islands are a small archipelago just off Hvar Town, reached by taxi boat in minutes. They are known for turquoise water, quiet coves and a handful of beach restaurants, and are a highlight of any stay.

Highlights include boat trips to the Pakleni Islands, the hilltop fortress above Hvar Town, the marble squares and Renaissance architecture of the Old Town, lavender fields, vineyards and some of the best nightlife on the Adriatic.

Both. Hvar Town has a famous summer nightlife scene, but the island also offers quiet beaches, boat days and family-friendly coves. Where you base yourself shapes the trip more than the island itself.

Three to four days is enough to see Hvar Town, take a boat trip to the Pakleni Islands and enjoy the beaches, though many visitors happily stay a week to settle into island life.

Not for Hvar Town and the surrounding beaches, which are walkable or a short taxi-boat away. A car or arranged transfers help if you want to explore the villages, vineyards and quieter bays further along the island.