Islands destinationHvar islandThe islands of Croatia | Adriatic sea
Last updated on 01/07/2026 at 12:13 AM
Located off the coast of Dalmatia, the island of Hvar is one of Croatia's most iconic destinations. Famous for its endless sunshine, crystal-clear waters and rich history, it attracts both culture lovers and travelers looking to unwind.

Hvar island (Adriatic sea) © Shufu | Dreamstime.com
The town of Hvar, with its fortress overlooking the harbor, charming stone streets and lively atmosphere, captures the essence of Mediterranean elegance. Surrounded by the Pakleni Islands, Hvar offers a perfect mix of secluded beaches, authentic villages, fragrant lavender fields and a vibrant energy that makes it a must-visit destination on the Adriatic sea.
A fascinating history
Hvar island boasts an impressive historical heritage. The main town, also called Hvar, is dominated by its Venetian fortress overlooking the harbor, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic sea. Cobblestone streets, medieval squares and ancient churches tell the story of a strategically important and thriving island through the centuries.

Aerial view of the Španjola fortress, offering panoramic views over the harbor of Hvar, the Pakleni islands and the Adriatic sea © Dudlajzov | Dreamstime.com
History and architecture enthusiasts can also visit the Hvar Theatre, one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the 18th century.
Beaches and pristine nature
Hvar island is a paradise for beach and nature lovers. Its coastline features secluded coves and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, diving and kayaking. The famous Pakleni Islands, located just off the town of Hvar, are easily reachable by boat and offer hidden beaches, seaside restaurants and breathtaking landscapes.
Inland, lavender fields, olive groves and vineyards add a charming, fragrant rural touch, offering scenic hikes and unique culinary experiences.
Vibrant life and cuisine
Hvar is also renowned for its lively nightlife and fine dining. Beach bars, clubs and traditional cafés coexist in town, creating the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment. Local cuisine highlights Mediterranean products: fresh fish, seafood, olive oils and local wines, including the famous Hvar wine.
Land adventures and underwater treasures
Hvar island offers a wide variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, diving and sailing. Visitors can explore numerous trails along the coast, discover hidden coves and experience the rich marine life of the Adriatic sea.
The island is also a true paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts thanks to its clear waters, marine biodiversity and preserved rocky seabeds. The best dive sites are around the town of Hvar and the Pakleni islands, especially in the waters near Vodnjak island, where you can explore drop-offs covered with red gorgonians and black coral, underwater caves, preserved wrecks and reefs teeming with colorful fish.
One of the iconic dive spots around Vodnjak island features a rock formation nicknamed the « Campanile » because of its bell-tower shape—without the spire. This formation rises from the depths to about 33 feet below the surface, revealing a spectacular canyon covered with giant red gorgonians between 50 and 130 feet deep, along with a striking 16-foot-long tunnel at 115 feet deep, highly sought after by experienced divers.
How to get there ?
The island of Hvar is easily accessible from mainland Croatia by several means of transport. For travelers without a car, fast catamarans departing from Split allow you to reach the town of Hvar directly in about 50 minutes, with several crossings daily, especially in summer.
Traditional ferries, which carry both passengers and vehicles, connect Split to Stari Grad on the island of Hvar in about 2 hours. If you arrive by car, it is better to take the line connecting the town of Drvenik to Sućuraj on the island of Hvar, which takes about 35 minutes.
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