Top things to do and see in Hvar Island
Hvar is one of the most visited islands in the most visited region of Croatia, the Dalmatian Coast. A Croatia sailing cruise to Hvar, however, will allow for plenty of time spent away from the crowds, lounging on the beaches of secluded coves or kayaking among the Pakleni Islands. Those visitors looking for culture will enjoy strolling the streets of Hvar Town or dancing at Carpe Diem, the island's most popular after-hours beach bar.
The Pakleni Islands lay scattered along Hvar's southwestern coast, visible from Hvar Town's harbor. Though their name means 'Hellish Islands', they are, in fact, closer to paradise on earth. Known for some of the prettiest beaches in the region, the Pakleni Islands are largely untouched and undiscovered, offering a quiet escape from the crowds. Sparsely populated, the largest of these nineteen islands, Sveti Klement, is home to three small villages. Palmižana village has a few restaurants and hotels, including the oldest still-operating hotel in the region, first built in 1906. The island of Jerolim has a popular nudist beach, while Marinkovac Island is known for its boisterous beach bar parties and lovely Mlini Beach.
Hvar Town, the main settlement on Hvar Island, has a long history of art and culture. Tours of its Old Town will feature the Clock Tower, the Civic Loggia, and the Hektorović Palace, while the Franciscan Monastery and Our Lady of Charity can be visited outside the walls of Old Town. While the town square is dominated by the impressive Cathedral of St-Stephens, one of the area's prettiest churches, the hilltop Fortica keeps watching over the entire town. Its Venetian architecture hugging a picturesque bay dotted with small luxury yachts, Hvar Town is the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or glass of local wine while gazing across the water at the Pakleni Islands.
Hvar Town's Fortica, or Town Fortress, is a medieval castle first constructed in 1282 and further fortified by the Venetians in 1557, but it sits upon the site of an ancient Illyrian settlement dating back to before 500 BC. Today the fortress houses a few archeological finds brought up from the seabed, as well as a small cafe and bar. The Fortica is reached via a walk through Old Town's narrow streets followed by an easy hike over well-shaded hills.
Restaurants, bars, and cafés are in abundance in Hvar Town, with something to meet every taste. Foodies will want to book reservations ahead to enjoy seafood at Macondo or the tasting menu at Zlatna Školjka. To let loose and party past sunset and even until sunrise, head to Carpe Diem, a little bit of Ibiza in the middle of the Adriatic, while Veneranda offers club events and the occasional open-air movie screening. Be sure to try the local wines, with the best whites coming from Dalmatia and the Kvarner area, and reds from Poreč, Buzet and the Pelješac peninsula.
Best time to cruise to Hvar Island
The Adriatic coast is blessed with a Mediterranean climate, meaning that the best time to take a Hvar cruise depends largely on your preference.
May and October are generally the best time for a cruise of the Dalmatian Coast. During these shoulder months, the weather is excellent, the crowds are smaller and tourist services are still open.
Hvar cruises in June to August take advantage of the highest temperatures and clear skies. This is the peak season, however, so plan ahead as hotels and cruises will fill up fast during this period, while prices will be higher. Crowds will also be bigger on the beaches and tourist areas, though this may be a plus if you are seeking raucous parties.
Hvar cruises in late October to April are rare as many tourist facilities, including hotels and shops, are closed for the winter. Crowds will be much smaller and the weather is still mild, but the offseason means opportunities for exploring the region will be limited.
Where do Hvar cruises depart from?
Most Croatia small ship cruises including stops at Hvar depart from Split or Dubrovnik. If your Croatia cruise leaves from Split, you will fly into Split Airport. Cruises leaving from Dubrovnik are serviced by Dubrovnik Airport.
The Dalmatian Coast is serviced by three international airports, in Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik. All three airports can be reached by direct flights from many countries within Europe. Visitors flying in from outside Europe may have to connect in Zagreb or another European airport.
Top Tips for visiting Hvar on a cruise
- Take your camera when hiking to Hvar's Fortica to capture the panoramic views of the Adriatic.
- To enjoy the clear waters of the Pakleni Islands, pack your own snorkeling gear.
- Wear sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
- Note that if you wish to sample the food at popular restaurants in Hvar Town, like Zlatna Školjka or Macondo, reservations are highly recommended.
Please contact our reservations team to book your next cruise to Hvar Island, Croatia.
