Hvar | Croatia
Hvar is an island where cultures and lifestyles have merged together making it one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia. Located amid the Adriatic Sea, off the Dalmatian coast, Havar is eclectic, dynamic and simply one-of-a-kind. From breathtaking architecture, scattered vineyards and sun-drenched beaches — Hvar, with its unique and charismatic energy, is one of Croatia’s most appealing cities along the coastline.
Croatia has retained its natural beauty while absorbing the influences from a number of different reigns. Its inhabitancy dates back to pre-historic times, originally by a Neolithic people whose distinctive pottery gave rise to the term Hvar culture and later by the Illyrians. The name Hvar derives from the Greek name for the island ’Pharos’, that was located where today’s Stari Grad is. The ancient Greeks founded the colony of Pharos in 384 BC, making it one of the oldest towns in Europe. Due to its position located at the center of the Adriatic sailing routes, Hvar has been an important base for commanding trade up and down the Adriatic, across to Italy and throughout the Mediterranean.
In 1918 the island once again fell under the control of the Italians and along with the rest of Croatia became a part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, then after World War II, the Republic of Yugoslavia. Though, with the recognition of the independent Republic of Croatia in 1992 Hvar attained its new role in independent Croatia. While there is a large influx of tourism, the fight for the survival of is seen throughout.
With a combination of mild winters, warm summers and many hours of sunshine characterizing its climate, its no wonder that the island has been the center of attention for many who have passed by from the ancient times to now.
As one of the most beautiful islands of the Mediterranean, Hvar’s hillsides are covered with pine forests, vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields. The magnetic tourist attraction of summer does not end with the month of September; in fact, Hvar produces idyllic weather all-year-round. With the plentiful activities, astonishing beaches, marvelous sunsets and thriving nightlife- you are in for a treat!
Explore Hvar in 24 hours
If you have just 24 hours to see Hvar then you want to make the most of the island’s aesthetic, gastronomic and architectural highlights. Hvar is sure to capture your heart as you take the time to indulge in a slower paced lifestyle, and what better place to choose than an island just waiting to be discovered?
A wonderful way to experience the beauties of Hvar is with a licensed professional guide; you will find that there are many variations from biking, walking, and wine tours. However, if you are one to take an adventure into your own hands then we can guide you in the right direction in order for to you enjoy what the island has to offer.
Start your day with an irresistible breakfast at one of the beautiful waterfront terraces- Restaurant Park Hvar is highly recommended and in the perfect location for you start your day of exploring. Make your way to the Sveti Stjepan (St. Stephen’s square) where you can find bustling cafes and market stalls filled with local handicrafts. Take in the beautiful architecture of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and from here make your way through the lanes and follow the track to Fortica.
Towering high above the town, Fortica offers spectacular views of the town and islands below. If you are not up for the walk then the fortress can be accessed by car.
After your walk you are bound to work up an appetite, so make your way to Butchery & Wine for a bite to eat. As you savor the subtle flavors of all the local cuisine you will understand the essence of island living. For anyone with a sweet tooth, Eis Caffe Jelsa offers delicious gelato perfect for any day and is located on the main square.
From here make your way to Franciscan Monastery, which is an easy stroll along the sea and the waterfront. Within the peace and quiet of the monastery walls, you can enjoy a rich display of museum exhibits
What a better way to spend the rest of your day than soaked in the sun and fresh sea breeze. The beaches of island Hvar are mainly small-pebbled stony beaches, conveniently located inside the many bays of the island, though you can find sandy beaches in the northern part of the isle. From the beach, make yourself comfortable if one of the many beach/lounge bars that Hvar has to offer while you sip on a cocktail and watch the golden sunset.
As the sun has set, make your way to San Marco Venetian terrace, where you can indulge in unique flavors and tasty delicacies. For other alternatives, you can find a list of our top picks in the ‘Taste of Hvar’ guide.
After dinner, proceed to explore the pulsating heart of Hvar’s rich nightlife. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, the bright lights and bustling crowds perfectly embody the excitement of the city that never sleeps.
Shopping in Hvar
As one of the most beautiful islands of the Mediterranean, Hvar is filled with endless qualities and hidden jewels. From breathtaking hills with scattered vineyards, idyllic beaches and rocky coves you can then take in the local produce and handicrafts to find yourself in a shopper’s haven.
To start your shopping adventure, make your way to the Eastern side of the town which runs along the sea and the port. Here, you will find yourself at Aqua Maritime which is a well known Croatian chain specializing in items related to the sea and the colors of. The boutique offers a range of children’s and adult’s clothing, homeware collections, handmade soaps and general knick-knacks — perfect as a gift or souvenir to take home from the colorful town.
From here, continue to head toward the St. Stephen Square where you will find local market stalls filled with produce, handicrafts and of course, lavender. Due to its ideal climate and good soil, Croatia is one of the largest producers of lavender and it mostly grows on hills and rocky slopes of Hvar. You can find an array of perfumed souvenirs sold by the many stalls. From fragrant bags of “Lavandula Croatica” to bottles of scented oils, essential oils and soap bars- Lavender is an ideal souvenir that is sure to take you back in time and remind you of Croatia and its beautiful landscape.
Another unique product that Hvar has to offer is Agave Lace, which too can be found at the market stalls. The characteristic of the lace motifs is that they are made without a template, inspired by the spur of the moment and created according to the imagination of the Benedictine nuns. Agave Lace is an art form, which can be given on special occasions or as an original souvenir from Hvar.
After taking in the all that the markets have to offer, lose yourself in the cobble-stoned alleys by taking one that branches off the main square behind the church of the patron saint of Hvar. Here, you are bound to come across one of the many jewelry shops that inhabit the island.
Tanja Curin offers elaborate, unique and lavish jewelry creations that have been enjoyed and worn with love by shoppers for over 30 years. The collections bring new stories and are composed of semi-precious stones that the artist collects from around the world.
Located on the west side of the port is I. K. Design. I.K design offers charming creations in gold, silver and semi-precious stones. Reflecting the dainty trademark of I.K, you can also find a selection of more precious stones such as emeralds, rubies, corals and pearls. Perfect for any fashionista who is looking for that perfect gift or souvenir to keep in memory of your trip to Hvar.
After shopping up a storm, leave your bags at home and head out to enjoy the glittering night that Hvar has to offer. For one of the many astonishing sunsets, head to Hula Hula where you can take in the golden sunset with one of the best views of the sea while you enjoy the atmosphere and the delectable cocktails.
