Planning a trip to Hvar? I have the perfect three-day itinerary below!
Hvar is easily one of my favorite islands in Croatia, and soon you’ll understand why. The crystal-clear waters, lively atmosphere, and historic charm make it a destination everyone falls in love with. After exploring Hvar for myself, I’ve put together this guide to help you experience the very best that the island has to offer without the stress of planning.
From kayaking around islands to exploring hidden caves, I have a perfect lineup of activities for you. I’ll share insider tips, the best restaurants on the island, and break down each day step by step. If you’re ready to discover this Adriatic gem, let’s dive in!
Don’t miss out!
My Top Choice
The tour I loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
My personal favorite activity was this full-day speedboat tour. From swimming at Stiniva Cove and wandering around the island of Vis, to marveling at the surreal glow inside the Blue Cave, every stop felt like its own adventure!
Overview of the Best Hvar Itinerary
🛺 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 stops along the way. Finish the day with dinner at a Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant.
🚲 Day 3: Bike Around Hvar & Tasting Tour
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.
*This itinerary was crafted around staying in Hvar Town.
Hvar is a large island, and getting around can be time-consuming, so for this itinerary, staying central in Hvar Town is essential. Pharos Hvar Bayhill Hotel is my favorite hotel in the area because it offers luxury without breaking the bank. Read my blog about Where to Stay in Hvar for more detailed info about hotels and areas.
Day 1
Morning – Explore the island in a tuk-tuk
I kicked off my time in Hvar with this private electric tuk-tuk tour, and it was such a fun introduction to the island! Between the little villages, coastal views, and stories from my guide, I got to see so much beyond the harbor.
I recommend booking the 9 am tour—it lasts around two hours, bringing you back into town around 11 am, ready for more sightseeing. It’s also a private tour for just you and your group of up to six people. My guide, Daniel, was funny, incredibly knowledgeable, and happy to answer my many questions, which made the whole experience feel relaxed and personal.
We started at Malo Grablje, an old stone village abandoned in the 1960s when residents moved to nearby Milna for opportunities in coastal tourism. Walking between the empty houses felt like stepping back in time! Next was Velo Grablje, where I learned about the village’s history of lavender production.
From there, we continued past lavender fields and through Brusje for a honey and olive oil tasting before finishing at Tvrdjava Fortica. Taking in the views over Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands from here was my favorite part! Just note that going inside the fortress costs extra but is worth it in my opinion.
After seeing how hilly Hvar gets beyond Old Town, I was very glad I’d booked the tuk-tuk! It handled the steep roads so well, and I saw much more of the island than I would have on my own.
Late morning – Wander Hvar’s Old Town
Back in town after the tuk-tuk tour, spend some time exploring Hvar on foot. You’ve seen the countryside, so now’s your chance to wander the waterfront and duck into those little streets you passed earlier!
Start in St. Stephen’s Square, where the cathedral stands at one end, and the harbor opens up at the other. It’s a lovely place to pause for photos before heading down to the waterfront promenade. I loved walking beside the boats here and looking up at the Spanish Fortress—you’ll have just seen the view from the other direction!
Follow the waterfront toward the Franciscan Monastery for another pretty stretch of shoreline, then head back into Old Town’s narrow lanes.
This is the part I wouldn’t overplan. Take whichever turn catches your eye, stop for photos, and enjoy the stone buildings, winding steps, and flower-filled balconies. After a morning of sightseeing with a guide, it’s nice to slow down and explore at your own pace before lunch.
Lunch – KOGO – Pizza, Pasta & Grill
After wandering Old Town, head back to St. Stephen’s Square for lunch at KOGO. With tables overlooking the cathedral, you can give your feet a break while still enjoying one of Hvar’s prettiest spots!
This family-run restaurant has been around since 1983 and started as a pizzeria, so pizza is a good place to start. There’s plenty of choice, from a classic Margherita to mortadella with burrata and pistachio. If you’re more in the mood for pasta, the truffle pasta with prosciutto and burrata sounds especially tempting.
The menu also includes salads, seafood, and grilled dishes, making this an easy lunch stop if everyone wants something different. Grab a table outside and take your time—you’ve already packed plenty into the morning!
Afternoon – Kayak Around the Pakleni Islands
After admiring the sea all morning, it’s time to get out on it! This self-guided kayaking experience lets you explore Hvar’s coastline and the stunning nearby Pakleni Islands, with plenty of time for swim stops!
The 3 pm option works best for this itinerary. Allow around four hours, bringing you back around 7 pm with time to freshen up before a late dinner.
You’ll start at Bonj Beach, a short walk west along the waterfront from Old Town. The team provides your kayak, life jacket, dry bag, snorkeling mask, and map, then explains paddling, safety, and a suggested route. I actually loved not having to follow a guide and being able to explore at my own pace.
The Pakleni Islands are the little islands you’ve been admiring from Hvar’s viewpoints, but their sheltered coves, pine-covered shores, and swimming spots deserve a closer look. My partner Jesse and I shared a double kayak, stopping at tucked-away beaches and even a beach bar for a drink. Those little breaks made the afternoon even more enjoyable!
My advice is to resist squeezing in too many stops. Pick a manageable route with the team before setting off and leave time to enjoy the beaches—you don’t want to spend the whole afternoon paddling past places you’d love to swim!
Pack water, sunscreen, a towel, and a few snacks, and you’re set for an epic afternoon of paddling and swim stops!
Dinner – Dalmatino
I’m not exaggerating when I say Dalmatino was the best dining experience I’ve ever had. The food was incredible, but the little extras and lovely service made the evening feel special from start to finish.
It’s super popular, so reserve ahead for around 8 pm, giving yourself time to freshen up after kayaking. Request the patio when you book—it looked like such a lovely spot! I forgot to request it and ended up with a table inside, which was still a great experience.
I was welcomed with a complimentary shot of rakija, and I ordered the pašticada with gnocchi, a Croatian braised beef dish that was absolutely delicious. Mine was gluten-free, although you’d never have guessed it! The staff was also very knowledgeable about celiac disease, which made ordering so much easier.
To finish, I was treated to a complimentary herbal digestif, followed by Croatian dessert wine. After an afternoon of kayaking, sitting down to a meal like this was just what I needed!
Evening – Stroll along the Hvar Riva promenade
If you aren’t too tired, take some time to walk along the Hvar Riva Promenade. At night, it’s especially beautiful when lit up and is a peaceful way to end the day.
There are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the view, or if you’re up for it, there are tons of wine bars dotted along the waterfront. The first activity doesn’t start until 10:15 am tomorrow, so enjoy the night or get some extra rest!
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Day 2
Breakfast – Sol Cafe
Start the day with breakfast at Sol Cafe, right on St. Stephen’s Square. It opens at 8 am, so you can enjoy a proper sit-down meal before swapping the town’s cobblestones for a day on the water!
The breakfast menu has plenty of delicious options, from Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon to brioche French toast and granola bowls with Greek yogurt, chia pudding, and fruit.
I’d aim to get here around opening time, order a coffee, and enjoy watching the square wake up. There’s no need to rush off afterward, either—the boat tour doesn’t start till 10:15 am, and the meeting point is only a two-minute walk away.
Morning/Afternoon – Visit the famous Blue Cave and Vis Island on a day trip
A day of swimming, island hopping, and drinks overlooking the sea? Yes, please! This Blue Cave and Vis Island day trip was such a fun way to get out on the water and explore beyond Hvar!
The tour leaves Hvar harbor at 10:15 am and returns around 6:15 pm. The boat was comfortable, with sun and shade seating, and my skipper, Phillip, kept things fun with great music between stops.
The tour started with a refreshing dip in the Blue Lagoon, followed by one of my favorites, 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 came 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 was 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.
Make sure you bring cash for cave admission and lunch. Bottled water and one beer each were included, which was a nice touch. This is a can’t-miss Hvar experience, and after doing it myself, it’s easy to see why it gets so many glowing reviews!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
Dinner – Mediterraneo Dine & Wine
After a day of swimming and island hopping, head back to your hotel to freshen up before dinner at Mediterraneo Dine & Wine. Reserve a table for around 8 pm, giving yourself time to shower, change, and walk over without rushing.
This Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant is tucked into Old Town, just steps from the harbor. The beautiful patio feels tucked away from the busy streets—peaceful, but still with that lovely holiday-evening buzz.
I was welcomed with a shot of rakija—something I was happily getting used to by this point in the trip! I ordered the filet mignon, while Jesse went for the monkfish, and both were excellent. If you’re traveling with someone who lets you try their food, this is a good place to take advantage!
There’s also a great wine list featuring bottles from Hvar and elsewhere in Croatia. Between the food and that patio setting, this is a dinner I’d leave plenty of time for. Order another glass and some dessert if you feel like it—there’s nowhere else you need to be tonight!
Evening – Wind down at BackLane Craft Bar
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, BackLane Craft Bar is close to Mediterraneo and makes an easy stop for an after-dinner drink. Tucked into a stone alley in Old Town, it’s a lovely spot to sit outside and enjoy a little more of Hvar after dark.
Cocktails are the main attraction here, with classics alongside their own creations. Can’t decide? Tell the bartender what spirits and flavors you like and let them suggest something. There’s also local wine and craft beer if you prefer.
If you still have some energy after the boat trip and dinner, it’s the perfect place to pop in, unwind, and reminisce on your fantastic day!
Related Read: Looking to fill your days with even more adventure? Don’t miss my full guide to the best things to do in Hvar here for can’t-miss spots and unforgettable experiences.
Day 3
Breakfast – BB Club
Before heading out, dress comfortably for today’s e-bike tour, then make your way to BB Club for breakfast with a view. It’s part of a hotel, but you don’t need to be staying there to eat! There’s a section for hotel guests and a separate area where non-guests can order off the menu.
I recommend grabbing a table outside along the harbor—it’s the perfect spot to sip your coffee, watch the boats, and do a little people-watching. The menu includes classic and Mediterranean-inspired breakfasts; I went for fresh fruit and an omelet.
BB Club opens at 7 am and is only a seven-minute walk from the e-bike tour’s meeting point. With the tour starting at 9 am, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy breakfast before heading over.
Morning/Early afternoon – Go beach hopping by e-bike
Pack your swimsuit, because this morning is a chance to explore more of Hvar with a few beach stops along the way! This self-guided e-bike tour lets you choose where to go, with most people spending three to six hours exploring. There’s no guide riding with you, so the route and pace are yours to decide.
I recommend picking up your bike at 9 am and planning your route with the team before setting off. Have them mark your stops on the map and explain the riding time, allowing for lunch and swimming. Aim to be back at your hotel around 2:30 pm to freshen up before the 4 pm wine tour.
When I went, I beach-hopped along the coast from Pokonji Dol Beach to Milna, stopping for lunch before continuing to Dubovica Beach. I recommend Gostionica Mala Milna for a meal right by the water—it’s a lovely excuse to take a break from pedaling!
You can follow a similar route, but I’d choose one or two beaches if you want longer swims and a leisurely lunch. Dubovica involves a steep walk down from the road, so allow time for that too. You can also revisit somewhere you loved on the tuk-tuk tour—that’s the beauty of going self-guided!
I was surprised by how well the e-bikes handled Hvar’s hills—I didn’t even break a sweat! That said, you should still feel comfortable on a bike, as you’ll be riding on roads and tackling some steep descents. You can always ask the team to suggest a route that suits your confidence level!
Late afternoon – Savor local wines on a tasting tour
After a morning of cycling, I can’t think of a better reward than an afternoon of wine tasting! This small-group tour takes you through Hvar’s countryside to a local winery in Jelsa, with a stop at Napoleon’s Fortress for views along the way.
It departs at 4 pm and lasts around 3 hours, bringing you back to Hvar Town around 7 pm for dinner. Hotel pickup is offered, but if you’re staying in Hvar Town’s pedestrian zone, you’ll have to meet at the bus station.
This wine tasting experience was honestly one of my favorite things I did in Hvar. When I went, I was welcomed like an old friend, and I loved having someone explain the local wines rather than picking something off a menu and hoping for the best!
I tried a variety of different wines, but my favorite was Prošek, a sweet Dalmatian dessert wine. I liked it so much that I bought a bottle to take back with me!
On this tour, the tasting takes place in a cozy, candlelit cellar, with locally made olive oils to try alongside the wines. Between the countryside drive and time spent tasting, it’s such a lovely way to spend your final afternoon on the island. And if you find a favorite bottle, you’ve already sorted drinks for one last evening back at your hotel!
Dinner – Fig Hvar
After several glasses of wine (or more, let’s be honest), nothing hits the spot like a good meal. Fig Hvar is the perfect place to have some incredibly unique Mediterranean food with influences from around the world. Dishes include Mexican pulled pork, chicken burritos, flatbreads, burgers, salads, and some of the best vegetarian food I’ve ever had. Plus, it’s all made with local ingredients!
It’s a casual but popular spot, so just don’t be surprised if there is a bit of a wait for a table during the peak season!
Evening – Walk the streets of Hvar one last time
Ahh, the last night in Hvar! Depending on how you feel, you have a few options.
If you’re up for staying out, Central Park Club always seemed to be buzzing whenever I walked past! It’s close to the main square and has live music every night from April to September—a fun option if you’re not quite ready to call it a night.
Ka’Lavanda Music Bar is another option for cocktails, or head to Lola Bar & Street Food for drinks and a bite if you’re feeling peckish.
If you’d prefer a quieter evening, take one last wander along the harbor and through the Old Town before heading back to your hotel. Or, if you’ve got a balcony, settle in with that bottle of wine you probably bought earlier! A glass of your new favorite Croatian wine sounds like a pretty lovely way to finish three wonderful days in Hvar.
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.
Book your Airport Taxi in advance
Start your trip stress-free by booking your airport taxi before you arrive. You’ll skip the long lines, avoid overpriced fares and scams, and won’t have to worry about explaining your hotel address to a driver. Simply prebook your airport pickup online here, and your driver will be ready to take you directly to your hotel!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
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Thanks for reading!
There’s so much to love about Hvar, and I hope this three-day itinerary helps you make the most of your time on the island! I followed this plan on my last trip and found it to be the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and local charm. Whether you’re kayaking through the Pakleni Islands, sipping wine in Jelsa, or soaking up the views from a fortress, Hvar delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
If you’re continuing your travels through Croatia (lucky you!), be sure to check out more of my Croatia guides here. Or I’ve linked a few of my favorites below to help you plan your next stop!
Where to Stay in Split, Croatia: 5 Best Areas & Hotels
Spend THREE Days in Dubrovnik, Croatia: Best 3-Day Itinerary
8 Things to do in Zagreb, Croatia
The Services We Recommend
From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore with confidence.
Britt is a Canadian-born adventurer who has spent years discovering the world, from backpacking through Europe and Southeast Asia to traveling across Central America and the South Pacific. Now based in New Zealand, she loves sharing her firsthand tips, unforgettable experiences, and inspiring itineraries to help others plan trips that balance adventure, culture, and relaxation!
