The island of Hvar is the longest and sunniest in the Adriatic. Enjoy the sun here for 2,720 hours or 350 days, and a colorful holiday is complemented by the pleasant aroma of lavender and the bizarre forms of medieval architecture. Tourists are attracted by the island’s mild climate and beautiful subtropical nature. The metropolitan life of the island in the city of the same name never subsides. The best time to travel is the first half of June. At this time, lavender fields bloom here, pink oleander blooms, the weather is conducive to a comfortable stay and prices are not yet as high as in the tourist season.
Today, Hvar in Croatia is rightfully included in the list of the best places to relax on the Adriatic coast.
General information
Hvar is an island in the Adriatic Sea and in the southern part of Croatia. Its area is 300 km2, length-68 m, while the length of the coastline is more than 250 km. The island’s name means “lighthouse” and is derived from the Greek word “pharos”.
Useful to know! The nearest airport to Hvar is Split Airport, 60 km away. You can get to the resort by water taxi or catamaran.
Largest populated areas:
- Hvar-the capital, located in the south-west of the island, the population is slightly more than 4 thousand people;
- Stari Grad, population about 3 thousand people;
- Yelsa has a population of approximately 3,700 inhabitants.
The island is connected to neighboring islands and cities on the mainland by sea channels.
The main source of income of the local population is tourism, there are also many fishermen on the island, there are many vineyards and lavender cultivation is widespread.
Historical background
The island of Hvar in Croatia has been inhabited by people since 3-4 millennia BC. During excavations, pottery with painted elements was discovered here, historians call this period the term “Hvar culture”.
In 385 BC, the Greeks settled on the island and founded the city of Pharos on the territory of modern Stari Grad. Then the island came under the control of Rome, it was at this time that the cities were laid out,and the population increased many times.
Slavic tribes appeared on the island of Hvar in the 8th century, many tribes fought for the right to rule this part of Croatia, as a result, the Venetians, the Hungarian state and the Dubrovnik Republic ruled here. The Turks also wanted to take over the island, during the military operations many settlements were almost demolished to the ground, but they were quickly restored. The Venetians were replaced by the Austrians, who were replaced by Napoleon’s troops. At the beginning of the 19th century, the island was attacked by ships of the Ushakov fleet, but soon it was ceded to Austria. After the end of World War I, Hvar became part of Yugoslavia and gained independence in 1990.
Attractions
The island of Hvar in the Adriatic Sea is one of the most visited resorts in Croatia. And it is not surprising, because in a small area there is everything you need for recreation-historical sights, comfortable beaches, amazing nature.
Architecture
The first settlements in this part of Croatia appeared 4 thousand years ago. The island managed to preserve unique architectural monuments that were built in different eras. Here is the largest theater in Europe, built in the first half of the 17th century. Theatrical performances and national and cultural events are still held here.
Be sure to visit the Cathedral of St. Stephen, it is located in the central part of the capital and is the most spectacular building of the Renaissance.
Walking through the central square, pay attention to the ancient well – on the Croatian island there has always been a shortage of drinking water, so the attitude of residents to the wells is special-respectful.
At the top of the hill is an important historical landmark – an ancient fortress that protected the island in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, guests of the island must climb the hill to admire the amazing island in Croatia from the fortress walls. It has the best observation deck in Hvar.
An excursion to the Franciscan monastery located in the bay of Kriza is sure to be fascinating and informative. The building is distinguished by its spectacular architecture, and inside there is a museum with an interesting exhibition of old books, paintings and coins created by local craftsmen.
On a note! The island’s nature and architecture make for long, leisurely walks. Here you can enjoy the beauty of the island for hours, touch the grandeur of antiquity.
Interesting architectural landmarks:
- paladini Palace;
- Gektorovich castle;
- town hall;
- Arsenal;
- Tvrdal Castle.
Be sure to visit one of the oldest cities in Europe – Stari Grad, as well as the colorful fishing town of Suchurai.
On a note! The neighboring island of Brac in Croatia is also of interest for lovers of beautiful beaches and colorful landscapes. What to see there and where to relax, read this article with photos.
Beaches of the island of Hvar in Croatia
Most of the beaches on the island of Hvar in Croatia are pebbly, so if walking barefoot along the shore is not too pleasant, you need to buy rubberized shoes. You can buy them on any beach on the island. It is also not recommended to go into the water barefoot – there are a lot of sea urchins and rocks on the bottom.
1. Dubrovitsa
One of the most beautiful places on the island of Hvar in Croatia, has the shape of a lagoon. Located 5-7 minutes ‘ drive from Milna, in the southern part of the resort. Those who die leave their vehicles by the roadside, but there is also a parking lot. The road to the shore takes about 10 minutes, you need to go down the mountain.
Features:
- pure azure water;
- on the beach there is a restaurant serving delicious fish dishes;
- nearby is the town of Stari Grad.
There is everything you need for a comfortable stay – sun beds, umbrellas, cabins.
Useful to know! From the port of Hvar, the journey takes about 25 minutes. You need to get there by water taxi or catamaran.
2. Milne Beach
This is the main beach of the island, which is located in the village of the same name, and consists of four lagoons surrounded by pine trees, grapes and fruit orchards. Hvar is 4 km away. The beach has everything you need for recreation, families with children come here.
Distinctive features:
- the water is warm and clean;
- there are restaurants (it is better to book a table in advance);
- you can relax not only by the shore, but also further away – in a quiet place, on the rocks;
- you can rent a boat on the beach.
3. Beach of Light Week (Plaža Sveta Nedjelja)
The beach is located in the south of the island, 7 km from Dubovitsa. Sveta Nedelya is located in a secluded location surrounded by cliffs that reach a height of 100 m. You can reach it by following a path through the forest or by boat on the sea. There are no hotels on the beach, you need to bring wood and umbrellas from the sun.
This beach on the island of Hvar is suitable for swimming, as well as snorkeling. The surface on Sveta Nedjelja is pebbly, the entrance to the water is sharp — the depth begins literally 2-3 meters from the shore. Walking along the coastline, you can find several more tiny coves where you can swim alone. This beach is visited primarily for the beautiful scenery, sunsets and privacy.
Hvar Fortress
The main attraction of the island is located in the northern part of the capital – the city of Hvar. The fortress was built in the 16th century and offers a wonderful view of the Paklenic Islands. Locals call the structure-fortezza-fort.
In the past, the fortress was considered the main defensive structure of the island of Hvar, it depicts the coats of arms of the Venetian, as well as the sea captains of Hvar.
Please note! The fortress is an ancient cultural and historical monument. This is one of the most picturesque buildings on the coast of Croatia.
The decision to build it was made in the 13th century by the Venetian government. Construction progressed slowly, with most of the work completed in the middle of the 16th century. The defense complex consists of four towers and numerous outbuildings. The fortress perfectly coped with its task when the Turks attacked the island.
At the end of the 16th century, the fortress was destroyed by a powerful lightning strike. Restoration work was carried out for a century.
In the second half of the last century, the fortress was restored and opened to tourists. Today, the fortress has a museum with an exhibition of ancient artifacts.
- Address: Spanjola, Ul. Biskupa Jurja Dubokovica 80, 21450, Hvar, Croatia.
- Opening hours: 9: 00-21: 00.
- The entrance fee to the tower is 50 kuna.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
The attraction is located on the central square of the city of Hvar. The church is designed in the style of the Dalmatian Renaissance and was consecrated in honor of St. Stephen. The religious landmark is built on the site of an ancient Christian church. The cathedral acquired its modern appearance in the 16th and 17th centuries. The bell tower was built at the beginning of the 16th century, and its design took about 50 years. In the interior design, you can trace the Baroque style.
It is important! On the territory of the temple there is a museum with a collection of church utensils, jewelry, ancient books and archival documents.
The cathedral is active, the organ plays here on public holidays and on weekends, and services are held. The stairs lead up to the old theater and visit the observation deck. The main decoration of the temple is a bell tower decorated with paintings.
Paklin Islands
This landmark is considered the hallmark of the island of Hvar in Croatia. You can get here from anywhere on the island. On a trip, it is better to set aside a whole day to swim and sunbathe, as well as see a lot of interesting things.
The Paklin Group of Islands are located along the Dalmatian coast. The name translates as “Hell’s Islands”. In the old days, tar was brewed here for ships, so the island was always shrouded in thick, black smoke. There is also a version that the name of the islands means-pine resin.
The largest island of the archipelago is St. Clement. There is a beautiful sandy beach surrounded by a pine forest and surrounded by a field of heather.
Diving, spearfishing and water sports enthusiasts come here. You can travel between the islands of the archipelago by water taxi.
Korcula Island-features, beaches, holidays
Accommodation on the island of Hvar in Croatia
It offers tourists a huge selection of hotels, hotels, apartments of different price categories. Accommodation in a three-star hotel in the summer season costs from 55 euros per day. We are talking about a double room.
You can also rent a comfortable cottage or a cozy apartment-it all depends on the number of vacationers, your personal preferences. The cost of housing depends on the location and availability of additional services.
Camping sites are very popular among tourists. The cost of accommodation depends on the season. The most popular camping site on the island of Hvar in Croatia is Vira Hvar. It is located in a quiet bay, 4 km from the capital. All conditions for a comfortable stay are created here. The campsite can accommodate 650 guests. On its territory there is housing with electricity and running water, a market, a restaurant, a playground, a Wi-Fi zone and a private beach. Prices for accommodation (in euros):
- from mid-July to mid-August-for adults-8.1, for children over 3 years – 4.5;
- June and the second half of August-for adults-7.1, for children over three years-4.1;
- June-for adults-6.1, for children over three years – 2.5;
- September-for adults-5.1, for children over three years-2.
Children under three stay free of charge. All accommodation conditions and prices can be found on the official website of the campsite www.campingcroatiahvar.com.
Where to stay in Split — overview of housing in the city
How to get to Hvar Island
The island of Hvar can be reached by water-by catamaran or ferry. Daily flights are provided from all cities in Croatia where there are ports. You can also take a water taxi or take a trip on a comfortable boat.
It is important! Ferry schedules vary depending on the time of year and day of the week. Passenger ferries arrive in the capital city of Hvar, while cargo ferries arrive in Stari Grad.
The journey from Split takes about an hour. One-way tickets cost about 100 kuna for adults and 50 for children. You can find out the exact schedule on the carriers ‘ websites:
- Jadrolinija — www.jadrolinija.hr/en/
- Kapetan Luka — www.krilo.hr/en/
Many people are interested in the question of how to get by car to the island of Hvar in Croatia, since it is most convenient to travel by private transport. Transport can be rented directly in Hvar. If you are traveling by your own car, you must arrive 1.5 hours in advance to board the ferry. Water transport departs from Split, the port is located in the city center.
You must pay 350 kuna for the car. You can view the ferry schedule and purchase tickets on the previously mentioned sites or directly at the port of the major resort city of Split.
To get around the city, you can rent a car, the rental price per day starts from 350 kuna. Mopeds and scooters are also available for rent.
There are three gas stations on the island – one in the capital and two in Jelsi.
Summing up the results
The island of Hvar is a place of rich historical heritage, amazing nature and mild climate. Be sure to try the local wine, which, combined with the aroma of lavender, is intoxicating and incredibly delicious. A trip to the island will be an unforgettable adventure and you will definitely want to return here.
