Hvar Island Travel Guide

The picturesque Island of Hvar stretching for 68 km from the Central Dalmatian mainland into the sea is Croatia's longest and most sun drenched island remarkable for the exquisite aromas of its lavender fields.

Hvar Island, Croatia

Charming towns with fascinating architecture make it one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Adriatic. The nearest airport, ferry and train stations to start an Island Hvar travel from are in Split.

The Hvar's favourable geographical position accounts for the numerous traces of prehistoric life and the later Illyrian, Greek, Roman cultures. In the 11th century the island was joined to the Kingdom of Croatia. The most prosperous periods were the 13th to 18th centuries of the Venetian reign and a century long Austrian rule discontinued in 1918.

Tourist attractions. Holidays on Hvar Island are all about visiting splendid architectural monuments from all periods of history, with many of them located within the Hvar Town walls and in Stari Grad. Pretty old churches with richly decorated interiors are scattered all over the island. Many tourists are attracted by the botanical garden in Palmizana.

Restaurants. Local restaurants and bars organize beach parties and music evenings while after the sunset it is time for some nightlife that is especially lively in Hvar and Jelsa. The meals include delicious Dalmatian and specific Island Hvar specialties. The Island Hvar travel is good for visiting annual summer festivals lasting for a couple of months, folk festivities, religious feasts and processions.

Beaches. The great attractions for one's island Hvar holidays are its beaches which are primarily rocky and shingle. Sandy beaches are not so numerous on the Hvar island but are absolutely lovely like the large Dubovica beach near Milna. Lovely rocky coves are found on the Glavica peninsula next to Vrboska. The popular destinations to make a naturist Island Hvar travel are the small offshore Pakleni Islands.

Active vacations. Water sports enthusiasts find the Island of Hvar a paradise for sailing with its two marinas, a few sailing clubs and agencies providing multi-day tours and courses. Several diving centres arrange trips to striking underwater spots. Snorkelling, sea kayaking, banana riding, surfing, parasailing, jet-skiing are other good pastimes for your holidays on Hvar Island as well as rock climbing, biking, hiking and popular games playing.