10 Best Things to Do in Hvar, Croatia

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Hvar is one of those places that completely lives up to the hype and has everything you’d want from a European summer destination. It has sparkling turquoise water, a historic old town, incredible food, and some of the best beaches in Croatia. Whether you’re visiting for a quick day trip from Split or spending a few nights on the island, there are so many amazing things to do in Hvar that it can be hard to know where to start.

During my time on the island, I explored everything from hidden beaches to historic viewpoints, and even took a budget-friendly trip to the Pakleni Islands. If you want a more detailed breakdown of how I spent my time here, check out my 3 Day Hvar Itinerary. And for anyone traveling on a budget, make sure to read my guide on How to Visit Hvar on a Budget, where I share my favorite affordable stays, eats and activities.

But if you’re simply looking for the best things to do in Hvar, here are my top recommendations.

Things to Do In Hvar, Croatia

1. Relax at Pokonji Dol Beach

Pokonji Dol Beach is one of the best beaches in Hvar, with bright turquoise water framed by pine trees and rocky cliffs. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the Old Town (or 10 minutes if you’re staying nearby like I did). The walk itself is stunning, but it’s a bit of a hike down to the beach so make sure you’re wearing proper shoes. As you descend the hill, the beach slowly comes into view and you can see just how blue and clear the water is.

I spent a few hours here relaxing, eating my takeaway lunch, and taking a dip in the sea. The water was cold in May, but it was too beautiful not to at least put my feet in. Bring a towel, snacks, and water so you can stay for a while and relax. There’s also a restaurant in case you need anything.

2. Walk Up to the Hvar Fortress (Fortica)

Hiking up to the Hvar Fortress is one of the best activities on the island. Most of the walk is through town, with a few switchbacks as you get closer to the top. Try to go early in the morning or before sunset to avoid the heat.

The viewpoint outside the entrance of the fortress is incredible, overlooking the Old Town, marina, and Pakleni Islands. But if you want to explore a bit deeper, the fortress costs €10 to enter and it great for learning more about the history of Hvar starting in the 16th century.

3. Wander St. Stephen’s Square & Visit the Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Square (Trg sv. Stjepana) is the heart of Hvar Town and one of the most beautiful squares in Croatia. This large stone piazza is a great spot for morning coffee, people-watching, and soaking up the sun.

At the end of the square sits St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a 16th-century church with ornate altars and a gorgeous bell tower. Entry is only €2, making it a great, cheap activity in Hvar. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior architecture is worth stopping to admire.

4. Take a Day Trip to the Pakleni Islands

The Pakleni Islands are a group of about 20 small islands known for their crystal-clear coves and peaceful beaches. It’s one of the best things to do in Hvar. While many travelers book island-hopping tours which cost €50–€150, you can visit the islands for just €10 roundtrip using the local taxi boats from the harbor.

Simply walk up to the taxi boat sign and ask where they can take you and when the next one is leaving. They usually just wait till the boat fills up, so you shouldn’t have to wait more than 20 minutes. Some of the most popular stops include:

• Mlini Beach – quiet, relaxing, and perfect for swimming
• Jerolim – nudist beach with stunning nature
• Palmizana – upscale beach clubs for partying

I visited Mlini Beach and had such a relaxing day. I read my book, ate some snacks that I brought and went swimming a couple times. Right across from the beach is a tiny island that you can walk to through shallow water. Just remember to bring water shoes – there are sharp rocks and sea urchins along the way!

Read more about taking a day trip to the Pakleni Islands in my 3 Day Hvar Itinerary.

5. Join a Walking Tour of Hvar Town

I always book free walking tours on GuruWalk when traveling, and the one I did in Hvar was so informative. The guide took me all around the Old Town (it happened to just be me and her on tour). I learned all about Hvar’s Venetian influence, lavender and olive oil production, and unique traditions like Hvar lace, which is crafted from agave threads by Benedictine nuns. Since the tour is free, a small tip between €5–€20 is encouraged.

6. Try the Best Gelato in Hvar

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to gelato at Aroma Gelato, known for being the best gelato in Hvar. It was even featured on Somebody Feed Phil, one of my favorite travel shows!. It’s located right in the Old Town and has some of the creamiest gelato with interesting flavors. Perfect for an evening stroll after dinner while catching the sunset.

7. Explore the Franciscan Monastery

A short walk from the Old Town, the Franciscan Monastery is a quiet escape from the busier old town of Hvar. Entry is about €8, and inside you’ll find a peaceful cloister, historic artifacts, and a famous 8-meter painting of the Last Supper. The grounds are beautiful and offer great photo spots.

8. Have a Picnic at the Beach

One of my favorite budget-friendly things to do in Hvar is to grab takeaway or snacks and enjoy a picnic on the beach. You can buy snacks like fruit, bread, cheese and cold cuts at one of the local supermarkets, or grab food from one of these great takeaway restaurants around Hvar Town:

• Hello Sandwich & Salad Bar – filling sandwiches and salads (€10–15)
• Pizza Feta – big slices of pizza (€4)
• Mlinar – pastries and bureks that make the perfect cheap breakfast or snack
• Kebab Factory – vegan sandwiches (€10–12)
• Juhu Hu – afforable takeaway near Pokonji Dol Beach

I listed all my favorite budget-friendly restaurants and supermarkets for beach picnics in How to Visit Hvar on a Budget.

9. Watch the Sunset Along the Waterfront

Hvar has some of the best sunsets in Croatia, and the waterfront promenade is the perfect place to take them in. You’ll find locals sitting along the marina, travelers strolling with gelato, and the sky turning shades of gold and pink behind the boats.

If your accommodation has a balcony or sea view, definitely take advantage of it. I watched the sunset from my balcony at Rooms Hvar every night and it never got old.

10. E-Bike through the Hvar Countryside

One thing I really wanted to do in Hvar, but didn’t have time for, was to rent an e-bike and explore the countryside. If you want to see a more local, peaceful side of Hvar, renting an e-bike is the perfect way to do it. You can ride out to small villages and scenic viewpoints, past Hvar’s vineyards, lavendar fields and olive groves. Since Hvar is quite hilly, an e-bike makes the ride much easier, which is why it is recommended over regular bikes.

You can either rent an e-bike from a shop in town or prebook a tour like this one. Although the tour is self-guided, they give you access to a route through your phone, with exactly where to ride and stop. I ever go back to Hvar, this is the first activity I’m booking. It’s a great option if you want a mix of gentle exercise, beautiful scenery, and a chance to explore outside the busy Old Town.

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