Hvar or Stari Grad? A Guide to Choosing the Right Base

Hvar Town is where you’ll find the buzz: beach clubs, nightlife, and a polished, high-energy vibe. Stari Grad, on the other hand, is all about charm, history, and a slower pace of life. This guide will help you weigh the differences, so you can decide which part of the island fits your style (and mood) best.

Vibe Check

Let’s start with the overall feel of each place – because that alone might make your decision for you.

Hvar Town is lively, polished, and built for a fast-paced holiday. Think cocktails by the harbour, boutique shopping, luxury yachts, and a social scene that doesn’t really sleep during the summer months. If you’re into nightlife and being in the heart of the action, this is where it’s at.

Stari Grad, on the other hand, is all about slowing down. It’s one of the oldest towns in Europe, full of cobbled streets, tucked-away cafés, art galleries, and locals going about their day. There’s a creative, low-key energy here that attracts travellers who prefer authenticity over flash.

So if you’re torn between Hvar Town or Stari Grad, this is your first big deciding factor: are you here to keep the pace up or to properly unwind?

Where to Stay

Get the best of both worlds at [PLACES] Hvar by Valamar

Accommodation on Hvar varies a lot depending on where you stay and what kind of trip you’re after.

In Hvar Town, accommodation tends to lean toward boutique hotels, modern apartments, and short-stay rentals. It’s popular with groups and party-goers, so prices can spike during the summer months, and availability can be tight if you’re booking late.

Stari Grad, by contrast, offers a more relaxed pace and a wider range of stays for travellers looking to unwind. The town is known for its charm, walkability, and peaceful atmosphere – making it ideal for longer holidays, couples, and anyone who prefers early morning swims to late-night clubs.

Your choice of accommodation can really shape your experience of the island, so choose wisely.

Food & Dining Scene

Hvar Island has no shortage of great places to eat, and whether you’re after fine dining or something more laid-back, you’ll find plenty to love in both towns.

Hvar Town is known for its polished dining scene. Restaurants here often come with sea views, carefully curated wine lists, and a focus on modern Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a great spot if you’re in the mood for something a bit more elevated – whether that’s a multi-course seafood dinner or creative cocktails in a lively setting. It’s also a good choice for people who like to mix dining with nightlife, as many spots flow easily into the evening party atmosphere.

Stari Grad, while more low-key, still delivers when it comes to food. The vibe here is less about flash and more about flavour. Think traditional dishes, locally sourced ingredients, and meals enjoyed at a slower pace. You’ll find plenty of cosy konobas, garden restaurants, and informal wine bars, especially in the old town and along the seafront.

Both towns offer great options and you’re not going to go hungry either way. 

Beaches & Nature Access

Crystal-clear waters and rocky coastline perfect for swimming and snorkelling

One of the best things about Hvar is how easy it is to find a beach that suits your mood. 

Hvar Town is close to several popular beach clubs like Hula Hula and the famous Carpe Diem Beach on the nearby Pakleni Islands. These places offer loungers, cocktails, and a more social vibe – perfect if you’re into that beach-club energy. The Pakleni Islands themselves are beautiful and easy to reach by water taxi, giving you access to some postcard-worthy coves and crystal-clear water.

Stari Grad, on the other hand, is surrounded by quieter, more natural beaches. There are rocky coves and pebbly stretches within walking or biking distance from the town centre, many of them uncrowded even in peak season. It’s also a great base if you like combining beach time with a bit of hiking or cycling. The surrounding countryside is peaceful and full of olive groves, vineyards, and scenic trails.

No matter where you stay, exploring a bit beyond your immediate area is part of the charm. 

Getting Around & Day Trips

The perfect day trip on Hvar’s crystal-clear waters

Both Hvar Town and Stari Grad are well-connected, but the way you get around (and where you’re headed) can shape your experience.

Jadrolinija operates a daily early morning car ferry from Split to Stari Grad between June and September, ideal if you’re arriving with a vehicle or want to start your day early. Kapetan Luka offers a fast catamaran service that runs in the late afternoon from April to September – perfect for foot passengers and a more relaxed travel schedule.

Day trips:

• From Hvar Town, it’s super easy to hop over to the Pakleni Islands or join boat tours around the southern coast.
• From Stari Grad, day trips have a slower pace – think winery tours, inland hikes, or exploring lesser-known beaches.
  

If you want to bounce around the island and experience a bit of everything, Stari Grad’s central location makes it a smart base.

Price Comparison

There’s no way around it – Hvar Town is more expensive, especially in summer. From cocktails to accommodation, everything tends to come with a premium. A casual dinner with drinks could easily run you €50+ per person, and prices rise sharply in July and August.

Stari Grad, while not exactly cheap, is more budget-friendly. Coffee, groceries, and everyday meals are noticeably more affordable. A seafood pasta and glass of local wine at a good restaurant might cost you €30–€45, and you’ll generally get more for your money in terms of space and peace.

So… Hvar Town or Stari Grad?

The good news is: there’s no wrong choice. Hvar Town and Stari Grad both offer incredible views, great food, and easy access to the island’s highlights. 

If you’re craving energy, nightlife, and convenience, Hvar Town is your spot. If you’re leaning toward slower mornings, local charm, and a more grounded experience, Stari Grad will feel just right.

Still undecided? Ask yourself how you want to feel when you wake up – that usually answers the question.