Activities on Hvar Island
Hvar
Hvar is not just a sun-soaked island paradise; it's also a playground for the rich and famous, with plenty of glamour and intrigue to spare.
The sunniest island in Europe needs little introduction. The island is home to numerous magnificent beaches, and visitors can explore its crystal-clear waters, go snorkeling, or simply soak up the sun. The island is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, and the Carpe Diem Beach Club is one of the most popular spots to party.
Across from Hvar town are the Pakleni Islands, a famous boating mecca that has been attracting sailors for years. The Pakleni Islands offer a variety of remarkable bays, where visitors can anchor their boats, swim in the turquoise waters, and enjoy local specialties. For those seeking a quieter spot, Vela Garska is a great option, and visitors can enjoy the local Calma beach bar. Hvar Island’s unique combination of natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
If you plan to visit Hvar, there are a few interesting facts to know about this beautiful Croatian island. One of them is that in 1932, Hvar was put on the market, but there is no record of who sold or bought it. Ivan Vucetic, a native of Hvar, invented dactylography, which is the study of fingerprints as an identification method. And if you’re expecting a baby, it’s good to know that if you give birth on a Jadrolinija ferry from Split to Hvar (or vice versa), your child will get a free ferry ride for the rest of their life!
Explore Activities on Hvar Island
- 11 hours
- Easy / Moderate
- 5+ years
130 €
- 10 hours
- Easy
- 0+ years
115 €
The Story of Hvar
History
Hvar Island’s rich cultural, archaeological, and architectural legacy has been shaped and influenced by, you guessed it, invading forces throughout history. The island’s earliest signs of civilization date back to the Hvar Culture of 3500-2500 BC. The Ancient Greeks founded Pharos on the island in 384 BC, which later became a strategic base for the Romans. The island was briefly occupied by Venice in 1147 but was eventually brought under the rule of Croatian-Hungarian King Bela III.
In 1278, the Venetians returned to Hvar after being invited back by the islanders who sought protection from Omiš pirates. The central administration was moved to Hvar from Stari Grad and the town became a regional centre for Hvar, Vis and Brač. A plan to build walls around the town and monastery was initiated in 1292.
Hvar saw several changes of rule, including Croatian-Hungarian, Bosnian, and Dubrovnik, before a more extended period of Venetian rule from 1420 to 1797. Despite being under constant threat of attack from the Turkish fleet, Hvar prospered under Venetian rule. The Austrians briefly took over in 1797, followed by the French, before the Austrians retook control in 1813.
Austrian rule brought prosperity to Hvar, with improvements in infrastructure, health tourism, and meteorology. The Italians occupied the island briefly in 1919, and Hvar became a part of Yugoslavia in 1921.
After Croatia gained independence in 1992, the island was blockaded during the Croatian Independence War, leading to a shortage of supplies and an influx of refugees. The economy suffered, and many cafes and restaurants closed due to a lack of electricity and necessary goods. However, Hvar has since recovered and is now a major luxury tourism destination with renovated hotels and cultural treasures.
Gastronomy
Hvar’s gastronomy is heavily influenced by its location in the Adriatic, with fresh seafood being a staple of the island’s cuisine. Some of the most popular seafood dishes on the island include grilled fish, octopus salad, and black risotto made with cuttlefish ink. In addition to seafood, Hvar’s cuisine also includes delicious meat dishes, such as the famous Pasticada, a beef stew slow-cooked in red wine and spices, and lamb cooked under a bell (peka). Local vegetables, such as chard and Swiss chard, are also commonly used in Hvar’s dishes.
Hvar Island is well known for its exceptional wines. The island’s climate, with its warm summers and mild winters, and abundant sunshine make it an ideal place for wine production. The island has a long history of wine production, dating back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, and today it boasts a number of wineries producing high-quality wines from indigenous grape varieties such as Plavac Mali and Bogdanuša.
You can explore the island’s many vineyards and wineries, sample the local wines and learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy a glass of wine with a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea. Hvar’s wine scene is a must-see attraction for any wine lover visiting Croatia!
Nature
The island boasts a diverse range of natural environments, from pristine beaches, lush pine forests, and rocky hills to hidden bays and inlets.
One of the most popular natural attractions on Hvar is Pakleni Islands, a chain of 16 beautiful islands located just off the island’s coast, where you have a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day in nature.
The island’s highest peak, St. Nicholas (Sv. Nikola), offers a challenging hike to the summit, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Adriatic Sea.
Hvar’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, some of which are secluded and accessible only by boat, while others are more developed and offer a range of water sports activities.
And do not miss a visit to the island’s lavender fields, which are in full bloom from mid-June to early July, and are a sight to behold and a unique experience for the senses.