Hvar holidays

How to reach Hvar

• Flight time: There are no direct flights to Hvar as the island doesn’t have its own airport. The closest international gateway is Split Airport, which is served by regular direct flights from Dublin and other Irish airports during the holiday season. The flight takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: From Split Airport, it’s about 30 minutes by taxi or airport shuttle bus to the port of Split. From there, take a ferry or catamaran to Hvar Town – the journey time varies between 1 and 2 hours depending on the service.

• Price: The airport shuttle to Split port costs around €5. A taxi is approximately €30. Catamaran and ferry tickets to Hvar range between €10 and €20 each way, depending on the operator and season.

Best time to visit Hvar

Hvar enjoys long, warm summers and mild winters, making it a popular destination from spring through autumn.

• April to June: Ideal for travellers who prefer pleasant temperatures (15°C to 25°C), fewer crowds and blooming landscapes. By late May, the sea is often warm enough for swimming.

• July to August: These are the busiest months, with long sunny days (up to 12 hours of sunshine) and average highs above 30°C. Perfect for beach holidays and nightlife, but expect more tourists and higher prices.

• September to October: A brilliant time for a more relaxed break. The weather is still warm (18°C to 26°C), the sea remains pleasant for swimming, and the atmosphere is calmer than in peak summer.

• November to March: These quieter months bring cooler temperatures (10°C to 15°C) and occasional rain. If you’re looking for peace and lower prices – and don’t mind skipping the beach – this is a good time for a scenic escape.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: A friendly “Dobar dan” (good day) will go a long way. Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated – rounding up the bill or leaving around 10% is customary in restaurants and cafés.

• Health and safety: Hvar is generally safe. Keep an eye on valuables, particularly at the beach or in crowded areas. For emergencies, dial 112.

• Currency: Croatia now uses the Euro (€), which makes things simple for Irish visitors. ATMs are readily available and most places accept card payments.

• Getting around: Buses and taxis connect Hvar Town with Stari Grad, Jelsa, and Vrboska. There are also boat taxis and car hire options for more flexibility.

• Electricity and plug types: Croatia uses the standard European two-pin plug and 220V electricity. You’ll need a European plug adaptor if you're not using an EU plug already.

• Time zone: Hvar is in Central European Time (CET), one hour ahead of Irish time. Daylight Saving Time applies from late March to late October.

Best things to do in Hvar

Beautifully unspoiled and pitted with a wealth of bays and coves, the island of Hvar still has plenty to enchant the seclusion-seeker.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Fortica: Largely intact stretches of defensive wall plunge down the hillside from the citadel towards the terracotta roofs of Hvar Town below, while beyond stretch the deep-green humps of the Pakleni islands just offshore.

• Sveti Nikola: Not only is it a fantastic hike up to Hvar's highest peak, but the views are simply sensational, stretching away along the Adriatic coastline as they do.

The best districts

• Hvar Town: The swankiest resort on the Adriatic is full of temptations, whether you're a culture vulture, Mediterranean foodie or cocktail-bar cruiser.

• Stari Grad: Straggling along the side of a deep bay, the island's main port is a laidback charmer of a town, its narrow streets as atmospheric as anywhere in the Adriatic.

Museums

• Stari Grad Museum: Located in the Bianchini Palace, an impressively restored Renaissance pile from 1896, the highlight here is a spectacular Roman shipwreck.

Parks and gardens

• Tvrdalj, Stari Grad: The summer house and walled garden of the 16th-century poet and aristocrat Petar Hektorovic. It has largely been divided up into allotments, although a portion has been tidied up and returned to its former glory.

Historical monuments

• Arsenal, Hvar town: Dominating Hvar town's main square is the arcaded bulk of the seventeenth-century Venetian arsenal, whose upper storey was adapted in 1612 to house the town theatre, one of the oldest Baroque playhouses in Europe.

• Franciscan Monastery, Hvar town: At the heart of the monastery is the monastic church, manifesting beautifully carved choir stalls and a fanciful partition which dates from 1583.

Day trips in the area

• Pakleni Islands: Just a short boat ride from Hvar Town, this chain of 11 wooded islands is perfect for a day of beach-hopping, swimming and delving into hidden coves.

• Vis Island: Enjoy the unspoiled nature and clear seas of most travellers' favourite island – and don't miss the famous Blue Cave on the nearby Bisevo Island.

Activities for families in Hvar

You could spend weeks beach-hopping here on Hvar, but there are stacks of other family-oriented activities to do on the island.

• Beaches: With so many beaches on the island, it's not tricky to find family-friendly ones, so for starters try Uvala Dubovica, a large, shallow bay near Hvar town, or Grebisce in Jelsa; shallow and sandy underfoot, it's perfect for safe paddling and playful splashing around.

• Boat trips: Take a family-friendly boat trip to explore the nearby Pakleni Islands, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkelling along the way.

• Caving: A terrific family adventure awaits at Grapƒçeva Cave, which is famous for being one of the earliest-known sites of settled human culture on the Adriatic islands. A highly atmospheric place to visit, with an entrance passage leading to a large chamber decked with stalagmites and stalactites.

Free things to do in Hvar

From glorious beaches to leisurely town strolls, there's more than enough to do on Hvar without having to dip into one's pocket.

• Walking Hvar Town: Wander the Old Town's timeless streets exploring the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere without spending a penny.

• Beaches: You can barely turn a corner without encountering another beach, most of which are free to access: two of the best are Dubovica Bay, near Hvar Town, and Zarace, a lovely pebble beach in between Hvar Town and Stari Grad.

• Stari Grad Plain: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient agricultural landscape offers a glimpse into the island's historical farming practices – and it's free to explore.

Nature and outdoor activities

Holidays to Hvar will inevitably include experiencing the great outdoors. The surrounding blue waters and hilly interior make it ideal for all kinds of activities, whether that's a gentle hike or bike ride, or a more adventurous pursuit like diving.

• Diving: Hvar's crystal clear waters attract divers from all over, and you can have a go too: Diving Center Viking offers a range of dives, including visiting the wreck of English merchant boat Paulina, which came to grief in a nearby lagoon in the 1800s.

• Water sports: The clear, gentle waters all around Hvar are perfect for a variety of water sports – windsurfing, jet-skiing, kiteboarding and the like – though nothing beats circuiting the island in a kayak.

• Hiking: The island's hilly interior is laced with a series of well-marked trails, and unlike the coastal resorts, you'll likely have the hills all to yourself.

• Cycling: Being an island, Hvar's roads are generally quiet, making cycling a pleasant experience for both casual and serious cyclists; bikes can be hired in Hvar Town and Stari Grad.

• Fishing: The waters around Hvar are rich in all kinds of fish species, so why not join a local operator in Hvar Town for a big game fishing excursion, which typically includes the option to cook your own catch.

Discover the best beaches for your Hvar holidays

Hvar Island is renowned for its stunning beaches, offering a mix of vibrant hotspots and serene getaways. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly spots, Hvar's coastline has something for everyone. Here's a guide to some of the best beaches you can enjoy during your Hvar holidays.

Milna beach

Just outside Hvar Town, Milna beach is a charming, protected cove surrounded by pine forests. Known for its clear waters, it's an ideal spot for snorkelling. The village of Milna offers a laid-back vibe with local markets and restaurants, making it perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Dubovica beach

Dubovica beach is a favourite among both locals and tourists. Located a short drive from Hvar Town, this pebbly beach boasts crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by lush greenery. Despite its popularity, it retains a serene atmosphere. There are sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, and a beach bar for refreshments.

Mekicevica beach

A hidden gem, Mekicevica beach is reached by a scenic 25-minute walk from Pokonji Dol. This secluded cove offers white pebbles and clear waters, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat. Nearby, Mama Pacha's Beach Bar provides covered day beds and lounge chairs, perfect for a relaxing day.

Jagodna beach

Located between the villages of Sveta Nedjelja and Ivan Dolac, Jagodna beach is a picturesque bay with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Surrounded by greenery and distinctive red cliffs, it offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. The beach has limited shade, so it's best to visit early in the day.

Ivan Dolac beach

Ivan Dolac beach is a popular choice for families due to its fine pebbles and calm, turquoise waters. The beach is easily accessible by car and offers amenities such as beach bars, restaurants, and water sports. Despite its popularity, the surrounding coves provide quieter spots for those seeking more privacy.

Malo Zarace beach

Malo Zarace beach is one of Hvar's most beautiful and secluded spots. Known for its dramatic rock formations and stunning turquoise waters, it's perfect for photography enthusiasts and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. The beach is less crowded during the off-season, offering a peaceful retreat.

Tips for beachgoers

• Pack essentials: Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks as some beaches have limited facilities.

• Arrive early: Popular beaches can get crowded, especially during peak season.

• Wear suitable footwear: Many beaches are pebbly, so water shoes can enhance your comfort.

Hvar's diverse beaches offer something for every traveller, making it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday by the sea. Whether you're exploring secluded coves or enjoying vibrant beach clubs, the island's coastline promises an unforgettable experience.

Being an island destination, seafood is everywhere, but there's a veritable cornucopia of fantastic food to be sampled in the island's many fine restaurants.

Some typical dishes

• Gregada: A Hvar speciality, this is a spectacular stew of fish cooked in white wine – few restaurants bother to serve it in single portions, however, so you'll have to order it for two or more people to make it worthwhile.

• Pasticada: A thick beef stew slow-cooked with wine, vinegar and spices in a rich sauce, sometimes with prunes, and served with soft gnocchi.

Meat dishes

• ƒÜevapi: Juicy rissoles of grilled minced meat served with ajvar (a pepper-based condiment) and flatbread – the classic Balkan staple.

• Peka: Slow-roasted lamb, octopus or other local goodies under an ember-covered metal lid known as a peka, this is a traditional route to a deliciously succulent meal.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Brudet: A scrumptious fish stew comprising various types of fish, to which tomatoes and wine is added, and typically served with polenta.

• Crni ri≈æot: One of Dalmatia's most iconic dishes, this black risotto takes its name from the main ingredient, cuttlefish ink – and the blacker the risotto, the better.

Street food

• Burek: A thick, flaky pastry packed with either minced meat, cheese or spinach: perfect for lunch on the run.

• Fritule: Small doughnuts typically flavoured with rum and citrus zest, dusted with powdered sugar – a cracking little sweet street treat.

Sweets and desserts

• Ro≈æata: A speciality from Dubrovnik, this is a vanilla-flavoured custard dessert similar to crème caramel, to which rose liqueur is added.

• Krostule: Deep-fried pastry twists dusted with powdered sugar, often enjoyed during festive occasions.

Local drinks

• Rakija: There's nothing like a shot of rakija (grape brandy) to oil the wheels of social intercourse. Knock back a herb-infused travarica or carob-flavoured rogaƒçica for a truly heart- and soul-warming experience.

• Plavac Mali: The best known of the local grape varieties, the rich red Plavac mali is grown everywhere in the fertile middle of the island and along the southern coast, while the indigenous Bogdanusa grape produces an intriguing dry white.