Top things to do in Hvar

At the heart of Hvar’s Old Town is a grid of narrow lanes which make up the Groda. Along here are a couple of interesting buildings: there’s a roofless palace dating back to the 15th century, the Church of the Holy Spirit with its small but striking detail, and, at the very centre of Groda, the Benedectine Convent of Lace Museum, which displays paintings and copies of unique lace made by the nuns. The Hvar Town has plenty of more accommodation options compared to Stari Grad, which isn’t a problem Stari Grad is easily accessible from Hvar Town. So, if you’re browsing Hvar holidays, it’s worth basing yourself in this area; accommodation options include hotels, studio apartments and pensions.

If you’re looking to add a splash of water into your trip, one of the best things to do in Hvar is to visit the town beaches. From the harbour, follow the coastal path, which takes you past some great options for sunbathing and swimming. There are plenty of perks to choose from, whether you fancy swinging by the lido, cocktail beach bars or kicking back on a futon-style sunlounger.

Away from Hvar Town is the island’s main port of Stari Grad, a slower-paced and family-centered affair. At the centre lies the Tvrdalj, which was the former summer residence of the 16th-century poet-aristocrat Petar Hektorovic. A visit to this simple stone ‘castle’ is one of the more tranquil and romantic things to do in Hvar, especially with its low-set stone wall punctuated with arches and squared around a small fish pond. You can also stroll around the walled garden, which is largely divided into separate sections.

Rainy day, history buff or simply wondering what to do in Hvar? Head to the Town Museum! You’ll gain a deep insight into the history of this part of the world: on display are Roman amphorae which were recovered from a 4th-century shipwreck; ancient Greek artefacts from Pharos (their name for Hvar) including small figurines and, quite eerily/fascinatingly, even a louterion (a basin used before ceremony/sacrifice); there’s also a picture gallery centering on the turn-of-the-20th-century local artists Bartol Petric and Juraj Plancic.

For fantastic art, don’t miss the Fantazam Gallery. This atelier/studio is owned by the Star Grad-born artist Zoran Tadic, and features a range of sculpture and jewellery (necklaces and bracelets) that is truly like no other. This talented artist is inspired by the animal world, science fiction and nature, all of which is reflected in his individual work.

Going out for a drink can end up being one of the most picturesque things to do in Hvar, whether it’s in the Town or Stari Grad. Whether it’s coffee, juice or something stronger, in Hvar Town there’s a trickle of cafes and bars based around the main square and along the harbour, which make for great people-watching spots, as well as being a great way to get a feel for the place. Some of the best wine in Dalmatia is produced in the local vineyards of Svirče, Vrbanj and Sveta Nedjelja – via a Stari Grad bar of your choice.