Top Attractions on Hvar Island: A Guide to Must-Visit Spots

That’s the magic of holidays on Hvar Island – they offer a little bit of everything.

This guide explores the best things to see on Hvar, taking you through its two main towns – Hvar and Stari Grad – and beyond to uncover hidden gems that will make your visit unforgettable. 

Hvar Town: The Heart of the Island 

Hvar Town isn’t just the island’s main hub – it’s where Venetian history, sun-drenched piazzas and wild beach parties collide. By day, you’ll wander through centuries-old stone alleys, climb to a fortress with panoramic views and sip espresso in one of Croatia’s most beautiful squares. By night? Rooftop cocktails, hidden konobas and legendary beach clubs keep the energy going until sunrise. Whatever pace you choose, Hvar Town delivers.

Historical & Cultural Attractions 

Hvar Town blends centuries of Venetian influence with vibrant island life, offering some of the most iconic things to see on Hvar.

Hvar Fortress (Fortica/Španjola)

A climb to Hvar Fortress rewards you with sweeping views of the Pakleni Islands and the sun-drenched Adriatic

Overlooking Hvar Town, the 13th-century Hvar Fortress offers unbeatable panoramic views of the town, the Adriatic and the Pakleni Islands. The fortress displays artifacts and exhibits that showcase Hvar’s military and maritime history. The real highlight? Watching the sunset from the ramparts, where the sky and sea blend into a stunning backdrop.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral & Square 

The heart of Hvar Town, St. Stephen’s Square, is the largest in Dalmatia and a hub of local life. Lined with historic Venetian buildings, it’s a perfect spot to soak in the island’s atmosphere. Dominating the square is St. Stephen’s Cathedral, dating back to the 16th century. Its distinctive bell tower reflects Hvar’s Venetian past, while inside, Baroque altars and religious artwork tell the story of the town’s rich heritage.

Benedictine Monastery

Tucked away in the heart of Hvar Town, the Benedictine Monastery is best known for preserving the centuries-old tradition of agave lace—a delicate and intricate textile handmade from threads extracted from agave leaves. Recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, this unique craft has been passed down through generations of Benedictine nuns.

Natural Attractions

Hvar Town isn’t just about lively squares and nightlife – it’s also surrounded by stunning natural beauty. From nearby beaches and hidden coves to scenic hikes and the breathtaking Pakleni Islands, the area is packed with things to see for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Pakleni Islands

Turquoise waters, secluded bays, and pine-covered islets

Just off the coast of Hvar Town, the Pakleni Islands are a stunning chain of pine-covered islets known for hidden coves, crystal-clear waters and laid-back beach bars. Perfect for swimming, sailing or sunbathing, they offer a peaceful escape and some of the most beautiful natural scenery on Hvar Island.

Dubovica Beach 

Dubovica Beach is known for its stunning turquoise waters and postcard-perfect views. Just a 10-minute hike from the main road, this hidden gem is the ideal spot to soak up Hvar’s natural beauty.  Adding to its charm is a historic stone house nestled by the cove, giving the beach a rustic, timeless feel.

Coastal Path from Hvar to Milna

The coastal path from Hvar Town to Milna is a relaxed and scenic walk that hugs the island’s southern shoreline. Along the way, you’ll pass pine forests, quiet coves, and sunlit stone terraces – perfect for a swim or photo stop. It’s one of the most peaceful ways to explore Hvar’s natural beauty.

Stari Grad: History & Serenity 

Stari Grad is Hvar’s quiet old soul – less about the flash, more about the feel. Its charm is in its slow pace, sunlit stone streets and waterfront cafés where time seems to stand still. Here, ancient Greek farmland meets hidden courtyards, and rustic konobas serve up seafood so fresh it practically swam onto your plate.

Historical & Cultural Attractions 

As the oldest town in Croatia, Stari Grad is full of timeless charm and fascinating things to see. 

Stari Grad Plain (UNESCO Site) 

Stari Grad Plain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved ancient Greek agricultural landscapes in the world. Laid out in the 4th century BC, it still operates today. Vineyards, olive groves, and dry-stone walls form a living mosaic that reflects 2,400 years of uninterrupted cultivation.

Tvrdalj Castle (Petar Hektorović’s Summer Residence)

Step into history at Tvrdalj Castle, where Hektorović’s vision of a tranquil retreat still echoes through its stone walls

Unlike traditional fortresses, Tvrdalj Castle reflects poet Petar Hektorović’s artistic vision rather than military strength. Built in the 16th century, the stone courtyard and fishpond were designed as a peaceful retreat, blending architecture, nature and philosophy into one harmonious space. Inscriptions carved into the walls reveal his thoughts on life, making it a unique Renaissance treasure.

Natural Attractions

Whether you’re cycling through ancient vineyards, swimming in peaceful bays, or walking along lavender-scented trails, you’ll find plenty of things to see in and around this historic town.

Maslinica Bay 

Surrounded by olive groves and rocky cliffs, Maslinica Bay is a quiet escape from Hvar’s busier beaches. Its calm, turquoise waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the peaceful surroundings invite visitors to unwind and enjoy nature at a slower pace.

The bay is often overlooked by tourists, making it a great spot for those seeking seclusion and unspoiled beauty. Bring a picnic, relax under the shade of the trees and take in the simple charm of this hidden retreat, where the only sounds are the waves and the occasional fishing boat.

Glavica Hill

Perched just above Stari Grad, Glavica Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the town’s terracotta rooftops to the shimmering Adriatic. Once the site of a small chapel, it’s now a peaceful lookout where locals still gather on feast days. It’s one of the few spots where you can see both sunrise and sunset over Hvar’s layered landscape.

Biking Trails Around Stari Grad

Follow the trails of ancient settlers as you bike past vineyards, olive groves and centuries-old dry-stone walls

Cycling through the Stari Grad Plain isn’t just scenic – it’s like riding through a living museum. The trails follow the original layout created by Greek settlers over 2,000 years ago, still marked by the same dry-stone walls and field divisions. Whether you’re coasting past lavender fields or olive groves, it’s one of the most authentic ways to experience Hvar’s timeless countryside.

Beyond the Towns: Hidden Gems & Attractions

Venture beyond Hvar’s main towns to explore some of its lesser-known treasures. 

Sveta Nedjelja 

Perched on Hvar’s rugged southern coast, Sveta Nedjelja is a small village with big character. Known for its steep cliffside vineyards, the area offers some of the best rock climbing spots on the island, with dramatic cliffs dropping straight into the Adriatic. Thrill-seekers can also try cliff jumping from secluded rocky outcrops nearby, making Sveta Nedjelja a perfect mix of relaxation and adrenaline.

Velo Grablje

Step into a sea of lavender on Hvar Island

Once a thriving center of lavender production, Velo Grablje is now a near-abandoned medieval village where stone houses and narrow alleyways whisper stories of the past. Wandering through its ruins, you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere, with only a few remaining residents tending to their traditional ways of life.

If you visit in July, you’ll catch the Lavender Festival, when the village bursts to life with lavender harvesting, artisan markets and traditional music. 

Malo Grablje 

Hidden in the hills near Milna, Malo Grablje is a true ghost village, abandoned decades ago yet beautifully preserved. Walking through its empty stone houses and overgrown courtyards, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different era, untouched by time.

Your Hvar Adventure Awaits 

Hvar Island is a captivating blend of history, nature and culture, offering an abundance of things to see at every turn. 

Whether you’re drawn to ancient fortresses, UNESCO-protected plains or crystal-clear coves, Hvar delivers unforgettable experiences rooted in its rich landscape and heritage.