Hvar totally lived up to the hype. We drank cocktails on rooftops with amazing views, and it quickly became one of our favorite places in Croatia. Whether you’re planning a trip with kids, your partner, or friends, Hvar has something for everyone. In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Hvar. You’ll find beaches, day trips, great food, and helpful tips. So keep reading to make your island trip easy and unforgettable.
In this guide to the best things to do in Hvar:
- Where to Stay in Hvar
- Find a Hotel in Hvar
- Top 5 Things to Do in Hvar
- 1. Dine alfresco – and don’t forget to make dinner reservations
- 2. Head to the beach (and don’t forget your walking shoes)
- 3. Go wine tasting
- 4. Go sailing or island hopping
- 5. Enjoy the glamorous people-watching
- Curious About Hvar’s Club Scene?
- Map of the Best Things to Do in Hvar
- Best Things to Do in Hvar – Tours
- Don’t Miss the Rest of Our Croatia Tips
- Pin for Later
For many, clubbing is one of the top things to do in Hvar. Years ago, I would have been right there with you dancing at one of the island’s famed beach clubs. But as a 40-something with two blissfully child-free weeks on my hands, I had something a bit tamer in mind.
Our room at Heraclea Residential Apartments was a short walk from the town’s harbor, but it was far enough away to be quiet. There, expensive yachts lined the water’s edge. Daytimes were for sailing and visits to rocky beaches, and evenings were for dining al fresco in the town’s charming alleyways and strolling around the harbor ice cream cone in hand.
Where to Stay in Hvar
- Heraclea Residential Apartments: Stay steps from the Adriatic in these stylish, historic apartments. They offer spa access, terraces, and a prime location just 800 feet from Hvar’s vibrant center
- Hotel Moeesy: Indulge in five-star beachfront luxury at this newly renovated oasis on Hvar’s scenic promenade. It offers elegant rooms, lush gardens, pools, and stunning sea views
- Villa Marina: Enjoy ultimate privacy and breathtaking ocean vistas in this entire four-bedroom villa. It features seven beds, eight bathrooms, and expansive terraces perfect for families or groups
- Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel: Experience beachfront luxury and rejuvenation at this chic spa hotel in the heart of Hvar. It offers panoramic old town and sea views, wellness amenities, and a romantic ambiance
- Villa Alea Hvar: Immerse yourself in city-center charm at this beautifully restored villa. It blends centuries-old walls with modern design, just steps from Hvar Cathedral and historic sights
Find a Hotel in Hvar
Top 5 Things to Do in Hvar
1. Dine alfresco – and don’t forget to make dinner reservations
Alfresco dining at a swanky restaurant is one of the most popular things to do in Hvar. Restaurant reservations were essential throughout our trip. In each city we visited, we watched restaurants turn away disappointed tourists. On our first night, we dined at Bunar, which had especially pleasant and helpful service. In Hvar, the menu prices are similar to those in big American cities, so don’t expect cheap deals like in Central Europe.
After dinner, we headed to the popular L’amor per il gelato for ice cream. A huge line stretched down the street. While we enjoyed the ice cream, we found other places in town that were just as good but cheaper and with shorter waits.
On our last evening, we dined at Dalmatino, where we splurged on Gnocchi Istria, black gnocchi with truffles and shrimp, and well-prepared steaks, again with Croatian truffles. We spent more at this restaurant than at most of our other meals. However, I thought it was worth the high price tag in terms of both food quality and service.
Top Restaurants in Hvar
1. Dalmatino
A long-time favorite in Hvar Town, Dalmatino dishes out Croatian classics with flair, like black gnocchi with shrimp and truffle. The friendly vibe and charming alleyway setting make it a must.
👉 Reserve here
2. Fig Cafe Bar
This hidden gem near the main square serves up colorful, globally inspired meals like pulled pork flatbreads and peach salads. Great for breakfast or lunch, and always a hit with families.
👉 Reserve here
3. Zori
For a dreamy meal by the water, hop over to the Pakleni Islands and grab a table at Zori. Think sesame-crusted tuna and sea bass with a sea breeze view.
👉 Reserve here
4. Konoba Menego
Tucked into the old town, this family-run spot serves authentic Dalmatian food in a rustic stone-walled setting. Homemade pastas and prosciutto plates are highlights.
👉 Reserve here
5. Stajun Hvar
A sleek but cozy restaurant in the old town offering seasonal Mediterranean fare. The seafood is super fresh, and the plating’s always Insta-worthy.
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6. Don Quijote
Perfect for date night or a celebratory meal, Don Quijote mixes refined Dalmatian dishes with gorgeous harbor views. Great cocktails, too!
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7. Pizzeria Alviz
This laid-back favorite near the bus station has a shaded back patio and reliably great wood-fired pizzas. Perfect after a day at the beach.
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8. Giaxa
Set in a 15th-century palace, Giaxa blends tradition with a modern twist. Try the octopus carpaccio or duck breast with cherry sauce.
👉 Reserve here
9. Bunar
Tucked away in a quiet alley of Hvar Town, Bunar offers a cozy escape from the bustling main square. This family-run konoba serves up traditional Dalmatian dishes crafted from local ingredients. Options include fresh seafood and produce from nearby gardens.
👉 Reserve here
Cool Treats and Great Views: Best Ice Cream in Hvar
An evening stroll for people-watching is one of the things to do in Hvar. It’s even better with a cone of gelato in your hand! Whether you’re cooling off after the beach or strolling through the old town at sunset, these gelato stops will hit the spot.
L’amore Per Il Gelato
Hvar’s most popular gelato shop, and for good reason! L’amore scoops rich, creamy flavors (plus dairy-free options) that are anything but basic. Expect inventive combos and a bit of a wait.
Aroma Gelato Boutique
Tucked just off the main drag, Aroma crafts all-natural gelato with super fresh ingredients. Each flavor tastes like the real deal—no weird aftertaste, just smooth and satisfying. Perfect for a midday treat.
Icy Bar
This no-frills kiosk near the waterfront might be small, but it serves up big flavor. Icy Bar is known for fun, fruity scoops and toppings like fresh berries and whipped cream. A great grab-and-go spot while you explore.
🍦Pro tip: Grab your gelato and head to the main square or the marina—prime spots for soaking up the island vibe while you snack.
2. Head to the beach (and don’t forget your walking shoes)
We spent our first full day visiting Pokonji dol Beach, a 20-minute walk from Hvar Town. Despite our best efforts to avoid the route that led to a steep final path down to the sea, we still ended up on it. We looked down at the rocky path down to the beach with concerns for our poor ankles, but we managed to navigate it unscathed. It’s not for the faint of heart, and I definitely recommend sturdy waterproof shoes and not just flip-flops. You’ll need those anyway because, like nearly all Croatian beaches, this one is rocky. Here’s a pair NY Mag has proclaimed the it shoe this summer.
We were able to rent two comfortable chairs and an umbrella for 190 kuna and settled in for people-watching. I will long remember the motley crew next to us who chowed down on corn on the cob throughout their beach day! No concrete slab or rocky stretch of coast is too inhospitable to the Croatian sun-worshippers. You will see people set up for the day on every available surface near water.
Best Beaches in Hvar
Hvar’s coastline is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re seeking serene seclusion or vibrant beachside vibes, here’s a curated list to guide your sun-soaked adventures:
Let’s be real—Hvar’s beaches are the kind of stuff you dream about when you’re stuck in carpool or watching travel shows at 10 p.m. The water? Crystal clear. The views? Unreal. Whether you want a laid-back day in the sun or a mini-adventure to find a hidden cove, Hvar delivers. Here are some of the best beaches in Hvar that are 100% worth your towel space:
1. Dubovica Beach
This one feels straight out of a postcard. It’s a wide, pebbly bay with water so clear you’ll want to bottle it. There’s even an old stone house adding to the charm. You’ll need to hike down a short (but steep!) trail from the road, but trust me—it’s worth every step.
2. Pokonji Dol
Just a quick walk from Hvar Town, this beach is great if you want a full day of sun without needing a boat. There are loungers, spots to eat, and even some water sports if you’re feeling active. Plus, you get lighthouse views while you snack on seafood.
3. Mekićevica
Looking for peace and quiet? This tiny beach is a 20-minute walk from Hvar Town and feels totally off the radar. It’s all about pebbles, pine trees, and that unreal turquoise water.
4. Palmižana
Hop on a taxi boat to the Pakleni Islands and you’ll hit this lively spot. It’s got beach bars, restaurants, and a sandy stretch surrounded by lush greenery. It’s not exactly secret, but it’s super fun.
5. Jagodna
Tucked between cliffs and pine forests, Jagodna is peaceful, romantic, and perfect for a swim. You’ll probably want water shoes here, but the calm vibe more than makes up for it.
6. Lučišća
A total hidden gem. You’ll need a boat or hiking legs to reach it, but once you do, it’s all white pebbles, clear water, and hardly any people. If you’re into quiet coves, this is your spot.
7. Zaraće (Velo & Malo)
These two rocky beaches sit below a tiny clifftop village and are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The dramatic rock formations also look amazing in photos (yes, even unfiltered ones).
8. Žukova
This low-key beach near Rudina doesn’t get much buzz, but it’s perfect if you want a chill vibe without crowds. It’s great for a quiet afternoon with a good book and a cold drink.
9. Mlini (Pakleni Islands)
Another Pakleni Islands favorite, Mlini, is surrounded by pine trees. Its calm, shallow water is great for kids or for floating aimlessly for hours. You’ll also find loungers and a couple of snack spots. To reach the beautiful Pakleni Islands, take a sailing tour.
10. Maslinica
Close to Vrboska, this one’s a mix of pebbles, rocks, and serious Adriatic beauty. You’ll walk through a pine forest to get there, so it feels like you’ve earned that swim.
Tip: Don’t try to see them all in one day. Instead, pick a few and give yourself time to swim, eat, and just be. And if you need help figuring out the perfect island-hopping plan? I plan the Croatia vacation of your dreams!
3. Go wine tasting
Exploring the local wines was one of my favorite things to do in Hvar. We enjoyed a wine-tasting tour that brought us to Caric Winery and Plancic Winery. The tour, of course, came with a variety of delicious local wines and local meats and cheeses, but it was also a great opportunity to meet some other travelers, and we enjoyed our evening getting to know our Dutch companions. Pharos Opol, a light and bright rose from Plancic, was a particular favorite of the day. We had enough to nibble on throughout that we skipped a formal dinner afterward and instead headed back into Hvar Town for mojitos at one of the many bustling bars.
Hvar Wine Tasting Tours
4. Go sailing or island hopping
On our sailing tour of the nearby Pakleni Islands, we anchored in quiet coves and swam in the salty Adriatic, which was perfect for floating with very little actual swimming required to stay afloat. Our skipper offered snorkel gear, but we found there wasn’t much to see in the waters of Croatia. It was enough to just enjoy cooling off and jumping from the boat.
A brief pitstop on Palmižana allowed for a relaxing lunch at Bacchus overlooking another pebbly beach. A perfectly prepared red snapper, a salad, and two drinks ran us around $100 USD.
Hvar Sailing Options
5. Enjoy the glamorous people-watching
The pretty young things in Hvar really are glorious to behold. After dinner, those not heading off to clubs like Hula Hula have cocktails at waterside bars or simply stroll around. Ending each evening with ice cream and people-watching was definitely one of my favorite things to do in Hvar.
On our third morning in Croatia, we departed on a morning ferry to Korcula. Wondering how long to stay in Hvar? We felt that three nights was the perfect amount of time to enjoy this glamorous little slice of Adriatic heaven.
Sure! Here’s a personalized callout section you can drop into your post without adding to your “5 Things” count, while still giving club-goers a taste of Hvar nightlife:
Curious About Hvar’s Club Scene?
Let’s be real—we were traveling without our kids and skipped the legendary Hvar club scene. Not because it isn’t fun (it is!), but because we were craving sunset strolls and wine over all-night ragers. That said, if you’re in the mood to dance ‘til dawn, Hvar delivers in a big way.
From sunset parties to open-air island clubs, the scene is glamorous, high-energy, and… not cheap. Some spots charge up to €40 just to get in, especially when big-name DJs are in town. So plan accordingly—and maybe pre-game with a view before splurging on bottle service.
Here are a few of the most talked-about clubs in Hvar:
- Carpe Diem: Legendary day-to-night clubbing with a sleek bar in town and a wild beach club on its own island. (Pro tip: the ferry to the island is included with cover, but cover itself can run up to €40 in peak season.)
- Hula Hula: Laid-back beach bar by day, sunset dance party by night. Expect DJs, dancing, and pricey cocktails with a view.
- Pink Champagne: Late-night glamour with VIP vibes, burlesque touches, and a luxe interior. Dress to impress.
- Central Park Club: A more chill option with live jazz and retro charm—think cocktails and cozy ambiance.
- Romance: Fun, casual, and a favorite with younger locals and tourists alike. Great if you want dancing without all the fuss.
Map of the Best Things to Do in Hvar
Best Things to Do in Hvar – Tours
Consider these highly-rated tours to make the most of your time in Hvar.
- Blue Cave & Vis Island speedboat tour from Hvar
- Boat Tour at Delfina Hvar
- Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town
- Hvar sunset cruise
- Hvar wine tasting small group experience
- Adventurous Blue and Green Cave group tour
- Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner
Don’t Miss the Rest of Our Croatia Tips
Continue planning your dream Croatia vacation. Don’t miss our two-week Croatia itinerary. Keep island hopping with a visit to the calmer Korcula. And don’t miss the chance to enjoy a traditional Croatian peka dinner at a local’s house in Dubrovnik.
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Pin for Later
We enjoyed our stay in Hvar, though I think we’d stay in Stari Grad if we return to the island.
Croatia is definitely a country I’m keen to experience. Great information.
The rocky beaches in all your photos completely surprised me! Renting some chairs vs. laying out on a towel would be a must for me! I’ve never been to Croatia, but it’s long time been on my list of places I want to go.
I would love to do a sailing trip throughout Croatia, and Hvar is definitely on my list! Great suggestions.
I haven’t made it to Croatia yet, but I can’t wait to explore it one day. Hvar looks like the type of place I would enjoy. I love dining al fresco and taking in the views, and my partner is crazy about a good ice cream!