Hvar: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
Even in ancient times, the island of Hvar in Dalmatia was of strategic importance. Today, it is a popular holiday destination because of its magnificent beaches and azure sea. As an alternative to a day at the sea, a hike through lavender fields and olive groves is an option. Water sports enthusiasts also find their paradise on Hvar.
Table of contents
Hvar - Must-see attractions
Fortica Fortress
The fortress Tvrđava Fortica was built in the 13th century by the Venetians on the foundations of a pre-Christian structure. When the Turks visited Hvar in 1571, the inhabitants found protection behind the walls. Today, the Fortica can be reached via a longer staircase ascent. From the 18th century, the Austrians used the bulwark as a barracks. A hundred years later, extensive expansions and restorations took place. In the 1970s, the preservation of the facility for tourism was secured. Also visit the small amphora museum of the fortress.
Cathedral of St. Stephen I
The three-nave church is an impressive blend of Renaissance and Baroque. It was built in the 16th century on the foundations of a Benedictine monastery. The curved gable exudes enchanting lightness. The bell tower, which towers far above the nave, dates from the 17th century. The cathedral is richly equipped with remarkable sacred art. The Baroque altars from the 17th century with paintings by Venetian masters are splendid to behold. One of the oldest in the country is the Madonna painting from the year 1220. The choir stalls are masterfully crafted.
Franciscan monastery
On the Sridnji Rat peninsula, the Franciscan monastery of the central Dalmatian town of Hvar nestles on the shores of the blue shimmering Adriatic. The complex was built between 1461 and 1489 as a refuge for Venetian sailors, as evidenced by numerous inscriptions in the sandstone monastery church. The Franciscan monastery is famous for its 300-year-old cypress in the garden and numerous impressive paintings, including "The Last Supper" by the Venetian Baroque painter Matej Pončun. Also visit the monastery museum with rare amphorae, ancient coins, and a precious Ptolemaic atlas.
Arsenal
The Turks burned down Arsenal Number 2 in 1571. In the subsequent reconstruction, the first public theater in the Balkans was established in 1612. The terrace on a hayloft and an interior equipped in the Italian style attracted spectators from all walks of life. After 1796, the arsenal was used as a barracks. In 1803, the theater resumed operations. Nearly 100 years later, it was restored, giving the facade its current appearance. Also visit the gallery of contemporary art.
Loggia
The present-day loggia with its distinctive seven round arches and the sturdy clock tower was completed in the 16th century. A Turkish raid in 1571 delayed the construction. Marvel at the charming facade crowned with small obelisks, which was only created in the 17th century. Originally, the loggia belonged to a princely palace, which was replaced by a spa hotel at the beginning of the 20th century. The loggia then served as a spa salon.
Paklinski Islands
The Paklinski Islands are a group of 20 smaller islands and rocky reefs located directly off the Croatian town of Hvar in the Adriatic Sea. They captivate with their many beautiful bays and beaches and are a popular destination for boat trips. In addition to swimming and enjoying the magnificent beaches, the Paklinski Islands offer excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling due to the crystal-clear water. Besides organized sailing boat trips, there is also the option for professional diving excursions.
Hvar - Climate
Look forward to lush vegetation on the island of Hvar due to the year-round mild climate. Thanks to 2,715 annual hours of sunshine, Mediterranean plants thrive excellently. From May to August, the sun shines twelve hours a day. Summer on the island is warm and dry. The highest temperatures are reached in July and August at 27 degrees Celsius. The winds Mistral and Tramontane provide refreshment. In July and August, you can swim in the sea, which is 24 degrees Celsius warm. Until October, the water temperature remains above 20 degrees Celsius. The swimming season lasts from May to October.