from WikiTravel

 

Hvar is an island off the coast of Croatia.

 

Gently rolling hills painted a brilliant purple by the fertile flowers, lush vineyards nestling at the foot of ragged mountains, gorgeous beaches with tiny inlets and secluded coves, luscious restaurants, boutiques, and a vibrant nightlife amidst the medieval streets of Hvar Town are just a few of the treats to enjoy on this dream of an island.

 

Imposing fortifications hover above the fluid blend of grey stone and orange cascading roofs. The remains of walls built by a long list of invaders descend towards the wide promenade edging the brilliant blue sea and the quaint fishing harbor. Marble streets reveal one of the largest squares in Dalmatia, Trg Sveti Stjepana as well as the prized Cathedral of St. Stjepan and the Renaissance theatre.

 

Hvar Town may be the most stunning town on the island but Stari Grad, the oldest village on the island, and Jelsa, as well as a smattering of small villages, dotting the coast or nestled in the lush interior are well worth a visit.

 

Island Hvar and especially Hvar town is one of the most popular destinations in the Adriatic. During the season (May to September) it can be very busy, especially during August when large numbers of Italians visit. Hvar was relatively cheap, without an extensive tourist infrastructure, and it attracted a lot of young people. However, this is changing as large five star hotels are being built and the standard of living in Croatia is rising.

 

THINGS TO DO

 

Visit the islands nearby. The Blue cave is a particular highlight. Options vary from hiring just the boat for the day if you are certified, hiring the boat and a skipper or taking water taxis to specific destinations. All have pros and cons but if hiring a boat and skipper for the day ensure any promised equipment is on the boat before you leave and be aware some are more customer friendly than others. The offered day tours are a good way to see the blue cave and green cave but other destinations may be more about the driver meeting up with friends for a drink than going where you want to go. These places tend will also tend to be the very overcrowded spots as well so make sure to request quiet beaches if that is what you are looking for.
 

Rent a boat (5 horse power) from a harbour near a football field (500 meters south from yacht harbour) for 400 kunas a day (7/2013) and explore the Pakleni Islands on your own. 10 hp for 700 kn and 20 hp for 800kn. Fuel is included in prices. You can rent boats right in the main square in Hvar town too but they are more expensive. The islands are very close and make for an amazing adventure. Take a picinic or a bottle of wine. The boat can be anchored anywhere around the islands or tied to the rocks.
 

There are also frequent water taxi that go the the Pakleni Islands that run every half hour or so.

Climb up to the Španjola Fortress. Enjoy the magnificent view of Hvar town and the Pakleni Islands, and pick up Italian radio on your mobile phone.
 

Go dancing at Carpe Diem. This is not to be missed. The djs are usually on the international circuit and the energy is high. Boats leave from the dock in front of Carpe Diem in Hvar and travel over to the party on the nearby island. Expect music to be typically "Deep House"
 

Visit many pebble beaches and private coves, diving, kite surfing and windsurfing. Circular trip with bicycles Milna - Hvar - Brusje - Milna or Hvar - Brusje - Jagodna - Vira - Hvar.