Things to Do at Hvar Town Main Square (Trg Svetog Stjepana)

Complete Guide to Hvar Town Main Square (Trg Svetog Stjepana) in Hvar

About Hvar Town Main Square (Trg Svetog Stjepana)

Trg Svetog Stjepana (St. Stephen's Square) is the magnificent heart of Hvar Town, renowned as one of the largest and most beautiful squares in Dalmatia. This expansive rectangular plaza, measuring approximately 4,500 square meters, has been the center of public life on the island for over 700 years. The square is paved with white Brač stone that gleams brilliantly in the Mediterranean sun, creating a stunning contrast with the surrounding historic buildings and azure Adriatic waters visible in the distance. The square is dominated by the impressive Cathedral of St. Stephen at its eastern end, while elegant Renaissance and Baroque palaces line its sides, housing charming cafés, restaurants, and shops. Palm trees and lavender plants add a tropical Mediterranean touch to the space, while the gentle slope of the square provides natural amphitheater-like seating during cultural events and festivals. This UNESCO World Heritage site serves as both a living museum of Venetian architecture and a vibrant gathering place where locals and visitors alike come to socialize, dine, and soak in the timeless atmosphere of one of Croatia's most enchanting islands.

What to See & Do

Cathedral of St. Stephen

The 16th-century Renaissance cathedral with its distinctive bell tower dominates the square's eastern end, featuring beautiful stone carvings and religious artifacts

Venetian Loggia

A 16th-century public building with elegant arches that once served as a courthouse and now houses cultural events and exhibitions

Arsenal Building

Historic 13th-century shipyard building featuring one of Croatia's oldest public theaters on its upper floor, still hosting performances today

Renaissance Palaces

Admire the beautiful stone facades of historic palaces lining the square, showcasing centuries of Venetian architectural influence

Well House

The ornate 16th-century well head in the center of the square, featuring intricate stone carvings and serving as a popular meeting point

Practical Information

Opening Hours

The square is accessible 24/7 as a public space. Individual buildings and attractions have varying hours, typically 9:00-20:00 in summer

Tickets & Pricing

Free to walk around the square. Cathedral entry: 20 HRK (~3 EUR). Arsenal theater tickets: 80-150 HRK (~12-22 EUR) depending on performance

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (7-9 AM) for photography and peaceful atmosphere, or evening (6-8 PM) for the golden hour and vibrant café culture

Suggested Duration

Allow 1-2 hours for a leisurely exploration of the square and its main attractions

Getting There

Hvar Town Main Square is easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the old town center. If arriving by ferry from Split, Korčula, or other islands, the square is just a 3-minute walk uphill from the harbor. From the bus station, it's a 5-minute walk through the charming narrow streets. The square is pedestrian-only, so cars must be parked in designated areas outside the old town. Water taxis and private boats can dock at the main harbor, making the square highly accessible for day-trip visitors.

Things to Do Nearby

Hvar Fortress (Španjola)
Medieval fortress offering panoramic views over Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands, just a 15-minute uphill walk from the square
Franciscan Monastery
15th-century monastery with beautiful cloisters, museum, and one of Croatia's oldest cypress trees, located 5 minutes south of the square
Hvar Harbor and Marina
Picturesque waterfront area with luxury yachts, waterfront restaurants, and departure point for boat trips to nearby islands
Pakleni Islands
Stunning archipelago of small islands just offshore, accessible by water taxi for swimming, dining, and beach relaxation
Hvar Lavender Fields
Fragrant purple fields surrounding the town, best visited during blooming season (June-July) for photos and lavender products

Tips & Advice

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday sun reflecting off the white stone pavement
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the stone pavement can be slippery when wet and hot underfoot in summer
Try local specialties like gregada (fish stew) or peka (slow-cooked meat/vegetables) at one of the square's traditional restaurants
Purchase lavender products, local wine, or olive oil from shops around the square as authentic Hvar souvenirs

Tours & Activities at Hvar Town Main Square (Trg Svetog Stjepana)