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A Week in Paradise: The Complete Hvar Experience

From Ancient Fortresses to Hidden Beaches on Croatia's Sunniest Island

Trip Overview

This seven-day journey through Hvar reveals Croatia's most glamorous island beyond its party reputation. You'll explore Venetian fortresses perched on hillsides, discover secluded bays accessible only by boat, wander through lavender-scented villages frozen in time, and experience authentic island culture in fishing hamlets. The itinerary balances active exploration with beach relaxation, mixing Hvar Town's vibrant energy with the tranquil charm of Stari Grad and remote coastal gems. You'll taste local wines in family vineyards, swim in crystal-clear Adriatic waters, and witness sunsets from medieval ramparts. This moderate-paced adventure allows time to truly absorb the Mediterranean lifestyle while covering the island's diverse landscapes and rich heritage spanning from Neolithic times to modern island life.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
May to September (peak July-August), shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Croatia, Beach lovers, History enthusiasts, Wine and food lovers, Couples seeking romance, Active travelers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Hvar Town Introduction

Hvar Town
Settle into the island's main hub and explore the historic harbor town, crowned by a spectacular fortress offering panoramic views of the Pakleni Islands.
Morning
Arrival and Old Town Exploration
Arrive by ferry or catamaran and check into your accommodation. Begin exploring Hvar Town's marble-paved streets, starting at the main harbor square. Wander through narrow Renaissance alleys, admire Gothic palaces, and visit the cathedral. Browse local craft shops and get oriented with the town's compact layout, stopping at the waterfront promenade to watch boats coming and going.
3 hours $0-10
Lunch
A harbor-side konoba serving fresh grilled fish and octopus salad
Dalmatian seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Španjola Fortress
Hike up to this 16th-century Venetian fortress that dominates Hvar Town's skyline. The 20-minute uphill walk through fragrant pine forests rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree views over the town, harbor, and scattered Pakleni Islands. Explore the fortress walls and dungeons, and learn about its strategic importance in defending against Ottoman invasions. Time your visit for late afternoon when the light is perfect for photography.
2-3 hours $8-10
Evening
Sunset drinks and dinner in the Old Town
Watch sunset from a rooftop bar overlooking the harbor, then dine at a traditional restaurant in the narrow streets behind the main square, sampling peka (slow-cooked meat under a bell)

Where to Stay Tonight

Hvar Town center (Small hotel or apartment within the pedestrian Old Town)

Central location allows easy exploration on foot and immediate access to dining and nightlife without needing transportation

Climb to Španjola Fortress early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and crowds. Bring water as there are no facilities at the top.
Day 1 Budget: $140-180
2

Coastal Gems & Hidden Beaches

Southern Coast
Discover Hvar's most stunning beaches, including the iconic Dubovica Bay, and explore dramatic coastal landscapes away from the crowds.
Morning
Plaža Dubovica
Take a taxi or scooter to this spectacular pebble beach nestled in a dramatic cove beneath steep cliffs. The 16th-century stone cottage perched above the turquoise waters creates a postcard-perfect scene. Arrive early to secure a spot on this small but stunning beach. Swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel around the rocky edges, and relax under the Mediterranean sun. The beach has basic facilities and a small seasonal bar serving refreshments.
3-4 hours $15-25 (transportation + sunbed)
Rent a scooter for flexibility to explore multiple beaches at your own pace
Lunch
Beach bar at Dubovica or pack a picnic with local cheese, prosciutto, and fresh bread
Light Mediterranean fare Budget
Afternoon
Red Rocks, Hvar
Head to this dramatic coastal area where rust-colored cliffs plunge into deep blue sea, creating a striking natural contrast. Popular with cliff jumpers and adventurous swimmers, the area offers multiple jumping points from 3 to 12 meters. Even if you don't jump, the swimming here is exceptional with incredibly clear water. Explore the rocky coastline, sunbathe on smooth rock platforms, and enjoy the wild, untamed beauty of this natural wonder far from organized beaches.
2-3 hours $0-5
Evening
Return to Hvar Town for dinner and evening stroll
Dine at a garden restaurant in the backstreets, then join locals for evening passeggiata along the waterfront promenade

Where to Stay Tonight

Hvar Town center (Same accommodation as Day 1)

Maintaining a base in Hvar Town provides consistency while allowing day trips to explore the island

Bring water shoes for rocky beaches and snorkeling gear if you have it. Many beaches have limited shade, so arrive early or bring an umbrella.
Day 2 Budget: $100-140
3

Island History & Cultural Heritage

Hvar Town and surroundings
Delve into Hvar's layered history from Napoleon's era to medieval monasteries, discovering the island's strategic importance through centuries.
Morning
Fort Napoleon
Trek to this early 19th-century fortification built during French occupation, positioned on a hill above Hvar Town. The fortress offers a different perspective than Španjola, with commanding views over the entire bay and surrounding islands. Explore the well-preserved ramparts and learn about Napoleon's brief but impactful rule over Dalmatia. The walk through Mediterranean scrubland is scenic, with wild herbs and stunning vistas appearing around every bend.
2-3 hours $5-8
Lunch
A family-run tavern near the town center specializing in gregada (traditional fisherman's stew)
Traditional Dalmatian Mid-range
Afternoon
Franciscan Monastery
Visit this 15th-century monastery located on a peninsula jutting into Hvar harbor. The peaceful complex houses a remarkable collection of Venetian paintings, ancient manuscripts, and liturgical artifacts. The monastery's cypress-shaded cloister provides cool respite from summer heat. Don't miss the refectory with its Renaissance ceiling and the bell tower offering harbor views. The adjacent church contains valuable artworks including a large Last Supper painting that dominates the refectory wall.
1-2 hours $5-8
Evening
Wine tasting and dinner
Visit a wine cellar in town for tasting of indigenous Plavac Mali wines, followed by dinner at a restaurant specializing in locally-sourced ingredients paired with island wines

Where to Stay Tonight

Hvar Town center (Same accommodation)

Continuing your Hvar Town base before moving to other parts of the island

The Franciscan Monastery has limited afternoon hours in summer. Check opening times and visit early afternoon to ensure entry.
Day 3 Budget: $120-160
4

Stari Grad: Where Time Stands Still

Stari Grad
Transfer to Hvar's oldest settlement, exploring UNESCO-protected ancient agricultural landscapes and the island's most historically significant town.
Morning
Transfer to Stari Grad and town exploration
Take a bus or taxi to Stari Grad, founded by ancient Greeks in 384 BC. Check into your accommodation, then explore this quieter, more authentic town. Wander the narrow stone streets of the Old Town, visit the harbor where fishing boats still bring daily catches, and explore the Tvrdalj Castle fortress-residence built by Renaissance poet Petar Hektorović. The town's relaxed pace offers a refreshing contrast to Hvar Town's glamour and energy.
3 hours $15-20 (transportation)
Lunch
A harbor-front eatery serving fresh-caught fish grilled simply with olive oil and herbs
Traditional seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Muzej Staroga Grada and Stari Grad Plain
Visit this museum housed in the historic Biankini Palace, showcasing artifacts from Greek colonization through modern times. Learn about the UNESCO-protected Stari Grad Plain, an ancient Greek agricultural system of fields and stone walls that has remained virtually unchanged for 24 centuries. Rent bicycles to explore the Plain itself, cycling through vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields divided by ancient stone walls, experiencing a living archaeological landscape.
3-4 hours $10-20
Evening
Relaxed dinner in Stari Grad
Dine at a quiet restaurant in the Old Town, enjoying slower-paced island life. Evening stroll along the peaceful waterfront promenade

Where to Stay Tonight

Stari Grad Old Town (Traditional stone house apartment or small guesthouse)

Staying in Stari Grad provides authentic island experience and access to the northern part of Hvar

Stari Grad is where locals vacation. Shop at the morning market near the harbor for fresh produce, cheese, and honey from island farms.
Day 4 Budget: $110-150
5

Villages & Traditions of Interior Hvar

Central Hvar villages
Journey into Hvar's mountainous interior to discover preserved villages, traditional ways of life, and sweeping island vistas.
Morning
Humac Ethno-eco vilage
Take a morning excursion to this extraordinary stone village perched high in Hvar's interior, seemingly untouched by time. Wander through the restored traditional stone houses with their distinctive roofs, visit the small church, and experience authentic island architecture and rural life. The village operates as a living museum where you can see traditional tools, taste homemade food, and learn about the harsh but sustainable lifestyle of Hvar's interior inhabitants. The panoramic views across the island are breathtaking.
2-3 hours $20-30 (transportation + entry)
Arrange a taxi or join a small group tour as public transport is limited to interior villages
Lunch
Traditional konoba in Humac or nearby village serving peka, homemade bread, and local wine
Rustic island cuisine Budget
Afternoon
Vinogradishće and White Cross / Glavica Hill
Visit the abandoned village of Vinogradishće, a haunting settlement slowly being reclaimed by nature, offering insight into rural depopulation. Then hike to the White Cross on Glavica Hill, a prominent landmark visible from much of the island. The moderate hike through lavender fields and Mediterranean scrub rewards with panoramic 360-degree views encompassing both coasts, the Pakleni Islands, and neighboring islands. The white cross itself is a pilgrimage site with deep local significance.
2-3 hours $0-10
Evening
Return to Stari Grad for dinner
Celebrate your village explorations with dinner at a traditional tavern, sampling local lamb or goat dishes paired with robust red wine

Where to Stay Tonight

Stari Grad Old Town (Same accommodation as Day 4)

Maintaining your Stari Grad base for exploring the northern region

Bring sturdy shoes for village exploration and hiking. Interior temperatures can be significantly hotter than coastal areas, so start early.
Day 5 Budget: $100-140
6

Coastal Villages & Bay Discoveries

Northern coast villages
Explore charming fishing villages along Hvar's northern shore, discovering hidden bays and experiencing authentic maritime culture.
Morning
Ribarski muzej Vrboska and village exploration
Visit the picturesque village of Vrboska, known as 'Little Venice' for its small bridges spanning an inlet. Explore the Fishermen's Museum housed in a traditional building, learning about Hvar's deep connection to the sea through fishing equipment, boat models, and maritime artifacts. Wander through the village's narrow streets, visit the fortified church that served as refuge during Ottoman raids, and admire the charming harbor filled with colorful fishing boats still in daily use.
2-3 hours $5-10
Lunch
A waterfront restaurant in Vrboska specializing in black risotto and fresh shellfish
Seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Sveta Nedjelja - Bay Lučišća and Plaža Lučišće
Journey to the remote southern slopes where the village of Sveta Nedjelja clings dramatically to steep cliffs plunging into the sea. This isolated settlement is accessible by boat or winding mountain road, offering spectacular scenery. Visit the bay and beach at Lučišće, a peaceful pebble cove with crystal waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The area is renowned for its cliff-side vineyards producing exceptional wines. The dramatic landscape feels worlds away from busy Hvar Town.
3-4 hours $25-40 (transportation or boat)
Consider taking a boat excursion that includes swimming stops and wine tasting at a cliff-side winery
Evening
Final evening in Stari Grad
Farewell dinner at a harbor restaurant, enjoying fresh fish and reflecting on your island discoveries. Evening gelato stroll along the waterfront

Where to Stay Tonight

Stari Grad Old Town (Same accommodation)

Final night in your Stari Grad base before departure preparations

Sveta Nedjelja's cliff-side location creates dramatic winds. The area is best visited in calm weather for swimming and boat access.
Day 6 Budget: $120-170
7

Škor Square & Departure Day

Stari Grad and departure
Enjoy a leisurely final morning exploring Stari Grad's heart before your departure from this enchanting island.
Morning
Škor square and final town exploration
Spend your final morning at Škor square, the social heart of Stari Grad where locals gather for morning coffee. This charming square surrounded by stone buildings and shaded by plane trees epitomizes authentic Dalmatian life. Visit any sites you missed, shop for local products like lavender, olive oil, and honey as souvenirs, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. Take a final walk along the harbor, perhaps visiting the morning market if it's operating, to gather last impressions of island life.
2-3 hours $20-40 (souvenirs)
Lunch
Light lunch at a café near Škor square before departure, or pack snacks for your ferry journey
Casual Mediterranean Budget
Afternoon
Departure
Transfer to Stari Grad ferry port for your departure. Ferries connect to Split on the mainland, where you can continue your Croatian journey or head to the airport. If time allows before your ferry, take one last swim at a beach near town. The ferry journey itself offers beautiful views of the Dalmatian coast and islands, providing a scenic conclusion to your week in paradise.
Variable $15-30 (ferry ticket)
Book ferry tickets in advance during peak season (July-August) to ensure space, especially if traveling with a vehicle
Evening
Departure complete
Evening arrival in Split or onward destination

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

End of itinerary

Stari Grad ferry port is much calmer than Split. Arrive 45 minutes before departure for foot passengers, 90 minutes if bringing a rental car.
Day 7 Budget: $80-120

Practical Information

Getting Around

Hvar Town and Stari Grad are both walkable. For beach hopping and village exploration, rent a scooter or car (international license required). Local buses connect major towns but run infrequently. Taxis and private transfers are available but expensive. Water taxis serve beaches and Pakleni Islands from Hvar Town. The island is small enough that nowhere is more than 30-40 minutes from your base. Ferries and catamarans connect to Split, with Stari Grad handling car ferries and Hvar Town receiving fast catamarans. Book inter-island ferries in advance during summer.

Book Ahead

Accommodation during July-August should be booked 2-3 months ahead. Ferry tickets in peak season need advance booking. Fortress entries and museums rarely require booking. Restaurant reservations recommended for upscale dining in Hvar Town during high season. Boat excursions to Pakleni Islands or Blue Cave can be booked day-before or morning-of outside peak weeks.

Packing Essentials

Swimwear and beach towel, water shoes for rocky beaches, sun protection (hat, high SPF sunscreen), light layers for evening breezes, comfortable walking shoes for fortresses and villages, modest clothing for monastery visits, snorkeling gear (optional but useful), refillable water bottle, day backpack for beach trips, camera for stunning vistas

Total Budget

$770-1,060 for 7 days (excluding accommodation and international travel)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in private rooms or apartments rather than hotels, saving 30-40% on accommodation. Eat at local konobas away from harbor fronts, shop at markets for picnic supplies, and skip organized boat tours in favor of public water taxis or beach walks. Rent a scooter instead of taking taxis. Visit free attractions like beaches and viewpoints. Drink wine at local wine shops rather than restaurants. Stay in Stari Grad throughout, which is cheaper than Hvar Town. Budget estimate: $70-100 per day.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at five-star beach resorts or boutique hotels in prime Hvar Town locations. Book private boat charters to explore secluded bays and neighboring islands. Dine at upscale restaurants with tasting menus and premium wine pairings. Arrange private guides for historical sites and villages. Include spa treatments and sunset champagne experiences. Take helicopter transfers from Split. Add day trips to Brač island or Blue Cave by private speedboat. Book cliff-side winery experiences with multi-course lunches. Budget estimate: $300-500+ per day.

Family-Friendly

Base in Stari Grad for its calmer atmosphere and better beaches for children. Choose beaches with gradual entries like those near Stari Grad rather than rocky Red Rocks. Replace wine tastings with ice cream stops and beach time. Shorten fortress hikes or take taxis partway up. Visit museums briefly, focusing on outdoor activities. Pack snorkeling gear for kids to explore underwater life. Choose family-run konobas welcoming to children. Consider apartment accommodation with kitchens for flexible meal times. Schedule afternoon rest breaks during hot midday hours.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Hvar

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Hvar

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Hvar

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Hvar

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Hvar

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