11 Best Things to do in Hvar, Croatia

Planning a trip to Hvar, Croatia? You’ve come to the right place!

Hvar is one of my favorite Croatian islands, and for good reason. With its crystal-clear waters, historic charm, and lively atmosphere, there’s something here for everyone. So after exploring Hvar for myself, I’ve put together this guide to help you experience the very best that the island has to offer.

Whether you want to kayak around the stunning Pakleni Islands, sip Dalmatian wines, or marvel at the breathtaking Blue Cave, this blog has you covered. I’ll share the top activities, insider tips, and everything you need to plan an unforgettable Hvar adventure. Let’s dive in!

Hvar at a Glance

Hvar was one of the easiest places I traveled around in Croatia. English is widely spoken, the service is next level, and I felt incredibly safe the entire time. It certainly has a luxurious side, but it still feels relaxed and welcoming! Before you go, here are a few tips that will help your Hvar trip run smoothly:

Don’t underestimate the hills: Hvar Town’s waterfront and historic center are compact and walkable, but it gets steep quickly beyond the harbor. If mobility is an issue, stay near the waterfront and double-check with the hotel before booking, as some hotels require lots of stairs (read my where to stay guide for recommendations). E-bikes and scooters are useful for exploring farther afield, but only rent one if you’re comfortable navigating steep, narrow, and winding roads!

Carry some cash: While cards are widely accepted, I noticed that several businesses offered discounts of 10%–20% for paying in cash. There are plenty of ATMs around Hvar where you can grab cash, but fees vary, so check the charge before confirming and always withdraw in euros rather than accepting the ATM’s conversion rate!

Make reservations during peak season: Hvar gets extremely busy in summer, and the best restaurants, boat trips, hotels, and popular tours can fill up quickly. So make sure you book anything you really don’t want to miss in advance!

How I Would Spend 3 Days in Hvar

🛺 Day 1: Hvar Tuk-Tuk Tour, Old Town & Pakleni Islands Kayaking
Explore Hvar by tuk-tuk with stops at the Spanish Fortress, Malo Grablje, and Lavender Village, wander downtown Hvar and the waterfront, then kayak around the Pakleni Islands.

💙 Day 2: Blue Cave & Vis Island
Spend the day on this speedboat adventure to the Blue Lagoon, iconic Blue Cave, and Vis Island with plenty of swimming and beach stops along the way.

🚲 Day 3: E-Biking & Wine Tasting
Visit some of the island’s best beaches on an e-bike, then spend the late afternoon tasting local wines and olive oils at a family-run winery in Jelsa.

For even more detail, check out my full 3-day Hvar itinerary!

Things to do in Hvar, Croatia

1. Kayak around the Pakleni Islands

Located just off Hvar’s coast, the Pakleni Islands are a group of small islands with beautiful beaches, secluded bays, and some seriously clear water. On my last visit, I booked this self-guided kayak tour and had so much fun exploring at my own pace!

My partner Jesse and I booked a double kayak, and before setting off, the expert rental team gave us a map, explained the equipment, and helped us plan our route (including the absolute best beaches to visit, of course!). You can get up to eight hours, depending on your start time, so I recommend heading out in the morning to leave plenty of time for exploring.

After that, we were free to explore on our own! I loved being able to stop for a swim whenever I felt like it, without worrying about keeping up with a group. And if a beach break lasted a little longer than planned, well, there was nobody rushing me along!

I recommend leaving time for lunch, too. Tri Grede in Ždrilca Bay is a great option for seafood and drinks by the water, and nearby Mlini Beach is a lovely spot for a swim.

The kayak, paddles, life jackets, dry bag, and snorkeling mask are all included. Just bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, plenty of water, and a few snacks for the paddle back. If you’re up for a fun day of paddling and stunning beach stops, I can’t recommend this experience enough!

2. Explore the famous Blue Cave and Vis Island by speedboat

A day of swimming, island hopping, and drinks overlooking the sea? Yes, please! This Blue Cave and Vis Island day trip is such a fun way to get out on the water and explore beyond Hvar!

The tour starts with a refreshing dip in the Blue Lagoon, followed by one of my favorite stops, Stiniva Cove. If you’re confident in the water, you can swim to a hidden beach tucked between enormous cliffs. It was actually once voted the most beautiful beach in Europe!

Next comes the iconic Blue Cave. After ducking through the hidden entrance, I was wowed by the bright blue water! We then stopped on Vis Island for lunch and a wander. As a big Mamma Mia! fan, I was especially excited—Vis stood in for the Greek island in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again!

The final stop is Palmižana, a beautiful bay on Sveti Klement in the Pakleni Islands. With turquoise water and waterfront bars, it practically demands a drinks stop, so of course I ordered an espresso martini overlooking the bay.

Our skipper Phillip kept things fun between stops with great music, and the boat was comfortable with plenty of sun and shade seating available. We were even provided bottled water and one beer per person on board, which was a nice touch!

This is honestly a can’t-miss Hvar experience, and after doing it myself, it’s easy to see why it has so many glowing reviews!

3. Explore Old Town Hvar

Between boat trips and beach days, make sure you leave some time to explore Hvar Old Town. I loved wandering the narrow stone streets, poking into little shops, and stopping for a coffee whenever I needed a break. It’s a lovely place to put your phone away and see where you end up!

Start at St. Stephen’s Square, the largest square in Dalmatia, with St. Stephen’s Cathedral overlooking it from the eastern end. There are plenty of places to sit with a drink, and I could happily spend a while here watching everyone go about their day.

The Franciscan Monastery is worth a stop, too, especially if you enjoy history and art. Inside, you’ll find a cloister and museum, with a large painting of the Last Supper as one of the highlights. Even just walking over to see its waterfront setting is a nice addition to your wander.

Of course, I always seemed to end up back along the Riva, Hvar’s waterfront promenade. Between the harbor views, boats coming and going, and cafés overlooking the water, there’s plenty to keep you occupied without actually doing very much!

I recommend coming back for a stroll in the evening, too. Grab a waterfront cocktail, watch the evening activity around the harbor, and take in the views. There is something so magical about seeing everything lit up at night!

4. See Hvar’s top sights on a tuk tuk

There’s so much more to Hvar than its pretty Old Town, but exploring the island takes a little planning—especially with all those hills! I booked this private tuk-tuk tour to visit some of the villages and viewpoints farther out, and it made getting around easy and a lot of fun!

My guide, Daniel, shared stories about island life as we headed to our first stop, Malo Grablje. This stone village was abandoned in the 1960s when residents moved to nearby Milna for opportunities in coastal tourism. Walking between the empty houses was fascinating, especially with Daniel explaining the village’s past.

Next was Velo Grablje, where I learned about its history of lavender production. It’s such a peaceful little place today, so hearing how important lavender once was to the village gave me a different appreciation for it.

From there, we continued past lavender fields and through Brusje for a honey and olive oil tasting, before finishing at Tvrdjava Fortica (aka the Spanish Fortress). The views over Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands were my favorite part! Going inside the fortress costs extra, but I think it’s definitely worth it (more on that below)!

The tuk-tuk made getting between all these places easy, and I enjoyed the open-air ride almost as much as the stops. After seeing those steep roads, I was very happy to let Daniel handle the driving! If you want to see more of Hvar without organizing your own transport, I’d definitely recommend this tour.

5. Take in the views at the Spanish Fortress

Look up from Hvar’s waterfront, and you’ll spot the Spanish Fortress sitting above town. Also called Fortica or Španjola, it’s worth heading up here for the views alone—think red rooftops, boats dotted around the harbor, and the Pakleni Islands stretching out across the sea!

You can walk up from the main square in around 15–25 minutes, but be prepared for stairs and a steep, winding hillside path. If you go this route, I recommend comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and avoiding the hottest part of the day (sunset is my favorite time to visit!). Alternatively, you can visit the fortress on the tuk tuk tour I mentioned above, or on an e-bike (more on that later in the blog).

Some visitors stick to the viewpoints outside, but I definitely recommend paying to go inside the fortress, too. Entry costs €12 per person, and there’s more to explore than you might expect. The dungeon area was my favorite—it’s quite a change from those sunny sea views!

There’s plenty of history here as well. The fortress sheltered Hvar’s residents during the Ottoman attack in 1571, and today you can see ancient artifacts inside while exploring its passages and lookout spots. Between the history, the dungeon, and those views, it’s a must-do activity in Hvar!

6. Take a private cruise to the Red Rocks, Pakleni Islands, and Hvar’s Southern Beaches 

This full-day private cruise is the ultimate VIP experience in Hvar! It’s great for groups or families wanting to explore away from the crowds. From the moment my group stepped on board, we were treated like VIPs, with our skipper customizing the route for an unforgettable experience. And we’re not the only ones who were blown away—read the rave reviews here!

As if cruising around on our own private boat for the day wasn’t enough of a thrill, we also saw a ton of amazing scenery. The Red Rocks were absolutely incredible, and getting to swim beneath them and explore hidden caves felt like a real-life adventure.

Next, we made our way to Lucisca Beach, a quiet, postcard-perfect spot with crystal-clear waters that were ideal for snorkeling. Honestly, I could have stayed here all afternoon—it felt like our own little paradise!

Visiting Dubovica Beach was one of my favorite parts! We refueled with lunch before setting off for the Pakleni Islands. Gliding through the shimmering blue waters felt like a dream, and we even had time to kick back at one of the island’s chic waterfront bars.

Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this private cruise is the best way to see Hvar from the water. It’s a dreamy, stress-free day, and I highly recommend it for families, big groups, or anyone wanting a VIP escape.

7. Taste famous Dalmatian wines

I love wine, so it’s no surprise that this wine-tasting tour ended up being a major highlight of my trip. Hvar has a rich winemaking history, and I really enjoyed learning all about it—and tasting it too, of course!

The adventure kicked off with a scenic drive from Hvar Town, winding past charming villages and rolling vineyards, with a stop at the Napoleon Fortress viewpoint for some pictures along the way. By the time we reached Jelsa, I was more than ready for some wine!

At the cozy, family-run winery, I was welcomed like an old friend and got an insider’s look at the world of Dalmatian wines—complete with plenty of tastings. I learned all about the local grape varieties, including Plavac Mali, and how traditional winemaking techniques have been passed down for generations.

The tasting itself was next-level! I sampled seven different wines, each with a unique story behind it, but the standout for me was the Prošek—a rich, velvety dessert wine. I even bought a bottle to take home with me!

There’s something special about visiting a family-owned winery, meeting the people behind the vines, and experiencing their passion firsthand. If you want to explore Hvar beyond the coastline, this wine tour is an absolute must!

8. Take a day trip to Stari Grad

Hvar Town gets plenty of attention, but I loved getting out to explore Stari Grad, an ancient coastal town on the island’s northern side. It’s one of the oldest towns in Europe, and its stone lanes and pretty waterfront make it a lovely place to spend a few hours.

I’d leave yourself time to wander without much of a plan, stopping for coffee or lunch along the waterfront. Make sure you find Škor Square, though! This little square occupies the site of a former shipyard, which is hard to picture when you’re standing among its historic stone houses.

Another main attraction to seek out is Tvrdalj, the fortified summer home of Croatian poet Petar Hektorović. With its fishpond, garden, and stone architecture, it’s worth stepping inside rather than just snapping a photo from the street. And if you have extra time, you can also explore the nearby Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the agricultural layout established by ancient Greek settlers still survives.

Getting to Stari Grad from Hvar Town is pretty straightforward, with local buses taking around 20 minutes and costing a few euros. My partner Jesse and I rented a scooter for €40 for the day and rode over ourselves, which gave us the freedom to make stops along the way.

However, I’d only recommend that option to very experienced scooter riders—the hills and winding roads require confidence! An e-bike is another way to get here if you’re comfortable tackling the island’s terrain (more on that below!).

9. Explore Hvar Island by e-bike

If you like exploring independently, this self-guided e-bike tour is a fun way to see more of Hvar. I loved having the freedom to stop along the way, and the electric assistance made those hills much more manageable!

Before setting off, the rental team helped me choose a route and mapped it out so I knew where to go. There are a few options depending on your interests and how much riding you fancy, including a longer route to Stari Grad if you’re up for a challenge.

I started with a ride to Milna, where a swim and waterfront coffee made a pretty good excuse for my first break! From there, I continued to Dubovica Beach, a beautiful pebble bay with wonderfully clear water. Being able to stop whenever something caught my eye was easily my favorite part.

Later, I headed up to Španjola Fortress for views over Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands. I was particularly grateful for the electric assistance on that climb! It still takes some pedaling, but I could enjoy the ride without every uphill stretch feeling like a workout.

I finished with some well-earned beach time at Pokonji Dol. You’ll want to be comfortable cycling on hilly, winding roads, but if that sounds like your kind of day, check out the route options and great reviews here!

10. Relax at the beach!

With water this clear, you’ll want to leave some time for doing absolutely nothing beside it! Hvar has plenty of lovely swimming spots, whether you’re after a beach close to town or a little cove worth making the trip for.

Pokonji Dol is one of the easiest options from Hvar Town, around a 20–30-minute walk from the center. You can also get here by scooter or water taxi. Two restaurants offer sunbeds, umbrellas, and water-sports rentals, so it’s a convenient choice if you want lunch and a comfortable place to lounge without much planning.

For somewhere farther out, Dubovica Beach is a beautiful pebble bay around 8 km east of town. You can reach it by scooter, e-bike, or car, followed by a steep walk down to the water. I wouldn’t recommend that descent for anyone with limited mobility. There’s a small family-run restaurant, but no sunbeds to rent, so bring something comfortable to lie on, and water shoes are definitely worth packing!

If you fancy music and a drink with your sea views, head to Hula Hula. This beach bar has seaside sunbeds and a livelier atmosphere, making it a fun option for an afternoon that turns into sunset drinks. Personally, I think there’s room for both kinds of beach day!

11. Book a private boat tour to see the Blue and Green Caves 

If you’re traveling with friends or family and like the sound of the Blue Cave group tour I mentioned above, this private boat tour is a great alternative for up to nine people. You’ll visit many of the same beautiful spots, with a boat and skipper just for your group!

The Blue Cave is the headline attraction, with sunlight reflecting through the water to illuminate the cavern in a brilliant blue glow. There’s also the Green Cave, where you can swim beneath the rocky ceiling in emerald-colored water.

Other highlights include Stiniva Cove, where towering cliffs frame a little pebble beach, and Budikovac Island’s Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a lovely mix of sightseeing and time in the water, without having to organize separate trips to each spot.

The biggest reason I’d consider this option is having everyone together on your own boat. You can discuss your preferences with the skipper and enjoy more flexibility throughout the day, although the route still depends on weather and sea conditions.

For a family outing or a group of friends, it’s worth comparing the total private charter price with buying individual places on the shared tour. Split between several people, having a boat to yourselves could be a tempting upgrade!

Related Read: Still not sure how to spend your time on Hvar? This 3-day Hvar itinerary maps out everything so that you can have a wonderful and relaxing trip!

Where to Stay in Hvar

Hvar is an incredible destination with plenty of great places to stay, no matter your budget or travel style. Whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or something more budget-friendly, you’ll find the perfect spot to soak up the island’s beauty.

To help make your decision easier, I’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Hvar, so you can focus on exploring, relaxing, and enjoying everything this stunning island has to offer!

Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel – $$$

If you’re looking to splurge in Hvar, Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel is a fantastic luxury pick right on the waterfront! The location is hard to beat, with Hvar’s main square, restaurants, and shops just a short stroll away. But the real highlight is the rooftop terrace, where you can sip cocktails while enjoying incredible views over the marina and Pakleni Islands. There’s also a gorgeous indoor pool, a luxurious spa, and stylish rooms, some with beautiful sea views.

Room rates vary depending on the season and suite category, but typically range from €300–€600 per night. Check all the options and book this charming stay on Booking.com!

Pharos Hvar Bayhill Hotel – $$

Pharos Hvar Bayhill Hotel is a fantastic mid-range option if you want a relaxing stay without being too far from the action. Tucked into a pine forest just a short walk from Hvar Town, this modern hotel has a laid-back atmosphere and a gorgeous outdoor pool surrounded by sun loungers and a poolside bar. The rooms are bright and comfortable, and some even have balconies with sea views!

Prices range from around €200–€350 per night. You can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.

Rooms Vinka Tudor – $

I stayed at Rooms Vinka Tudor on my last trip to Hvar, and it’s a fantastic budget-friendly find, especially if you want beautiful views without paying luxury hotel prices! This charming guesthouse sits on a hillside above the harbor, with incredible views over Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands. My room even had a large private terrace with sun loungers and a handy kitchenette, although not all rooms come with these extras.

It’s just a short walk downhill to the main square, restaurants, and waterfront, although you’ll have some stairs to tackle on the way back! Rooms range from €100–€200 per night, and you can check prices and availability on Booking.com.

For more options, see all of Hvar’s hotels listed here!

Related Read: Want more details before booking? Read my in-depth guide on where to stay in Hvar, based on my time on the island.

Thanks for reading!

Hvar is one of those places that’s impossible not to love! Between the crystal-clear waters, charming old town, and lively atmosphere, there’s so much to see and do that I hope this guide helps you figure out where to start. I had an unforgettable time exploring this Croatian gem, and I know you will, too!

Whether you’re planning more adventures or just looking for travel inspiration, check out all my Croatia blogs here! I’ve got plenty of tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip.

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