Hvar is more than just a stop — it’s a place that slowly reveals itself.
At the center of it all is St. Stephen’s Square (Pjaca), one of the largest in Dalmatia. Here stands the baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its bell tower dating back to the 16th and 17th century, built on the site of an earlier church. Just nearby, you’ll notice the Štandarac — once used as a pillar of shame — a small but powerful reminder of the town’s history.
On the square, life moves at its own pace. A short stop at Hvar Pjaca Bar, with coffee or ice cream in hand, is often all it takes to feel it.
Across the square is the Arsenal building, home to the Hvar Public Theatre from 1612 — one of the oldest public theatres in Europe, still open to visitors today.
From there, a walk along the waterfront reveals a quieter side of Hvar, where the statue of Fisherman Boy – Bata Duje reflects the island’s deep connection to the sea and everyday life shaped by it.
For the most memorable view, a short climb leads to Fortica fortress, built in the 16th century to protect the town. Today, it offers a panoramic view over Hvar and the Pakleni Islands — one of those moments that stays with you.
For yacht charters, Hvar is a must-visit destination. Its harbor is one of the most recognizable on the Adriatic, often filled with yachts and lined with restaurants, bars, and beach clubs. Arriving by sea is part of the experience, as the town gradually reveals itself with every approach.
Hvar is also known for its energy and nightlife, especially during the summer months when the waterfront becomes a social hub from day to night. At the same time, the island offers quieter escapes, from nearby Pakleni Islands with secluded bays to inland areas with lavender fields and vineyards.
The island balances luxury and authenticity, offering fine dining, beach clubs, and high-end experiences alongside traditional Dalmatian culture and natural beauty.
Overall, Hvar combines history, scenery, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it one of the most dynamic and sought-after stops on the Croatian coast.
Swimming and relaxing in Pakleni Islands
Just across from Hvar lies the Pakleni Islands — an archipelago of over 20 small islands and islets, scattered like a natural extension of the coastline.
Their name comes from paklina, a type of pine resin once used in traditional shipbuilding — a quiet reminder of the area’s deep connection to the sea.
The group includes islands such as Jerolim, Marinkovac, Planikovac, Gališnik, and Vodnjak, but the largest and most well-known is Sveti Klement.
Although there are small settlements like Momića Polje, Vlaka, and Palmižana, the islands have no permanent population — which is exactly what preserves their untouched character.
Palmižana, located on Sveti Klement, is the most visited spot — not only for its sheltered bays and relaxed atmosphere, but also for its unique botanical garden.
Owned by the Meneghello family, this garden has been cultivated since the early 20th century and features an unexpected mix of plants: pine trees, cacti, tamarisk, oleander, yucca — a Mediterranean landscape with a subtle exotic touch.
The Pakleni Islands are known for their crystal-clear bays, untouched nature, and quiet escape just off Hvar.
After time on the island, the journey naturally leads back to the mainland — where you can experience Split and its historic old town at your own pace.