The town of Hvar - an ancient town rich in history, situated on the western side of the island facing south. It is the largest town on the island of Hvar, and one of the most famous and visited tourist destinations in Croatia. The island is known as the sunniest part of the Croatian coast (annual average of sunshine is 2726 hours), which makes it a popular holiday destination not only in the summer, but also in spring and autumn. Do not forget to visit the various monuments such as the fortress Fortica, the cathedral of Hvar, the Hvar theatre (one of the oldest public theaters in Europe), the Franciscan Monastery and many other monuments, a testament to a very tumultuous past of the town of Hvar.
Hvar has a clear sea with small rocky and pebble beaches. In front of the Hvar bay are Pakleni islands with some of the most beautiful beaches of Hvar. The best-known beaches are: Jerome, Zdrilić, Palmižana and Pokonji dol. The city is connected by regular ferry lines to other islands. Sports lovers can enjoy hiking, diving, many water sports and hiking, or they can play soccer, handball, volleyball, basketball and tennis. The nightlife on Hvar is one of the liveliest in Dalmatia. You can relax to a variety of performances, exhibitions, concerts, musical folklore events and then visit the many discos which stay open until the early morning hours.
Hvar is a city where the older guests can enjoy a peaceful vacation enriched with cultural events, while the young crowd sips their cocktails, and has fun at "after beach" parties and nightclubs.
Did you know? The name of the town of Hvar comes from Pharos - the Greek name for island and town, located where the town of Stari Grad stands today.
Be sure to visit
The Hvar fortress is situated on a hill above the town. It was built in the early 16th century and restored in the year 1579 after it was damaged in an explosion. During the French rule the fortress was additionally fortified, and during the Austrian rule more barracks and an observation post were built. Today, the fort houses a collection of amphorae and other artifacts from ancient and medieval times. This fortress dominates the town and features an amazing view of Hvar and Pakleni islands.
Cathedral of St. Stephen: situated on the eastern side of the city's main square. It was built on the foundations of an early Christian church from the 6th century and got its present appearance in the 16th and 17th century.
Arsenal: built in the 13th century. The top floor features a theater built in the year 1612, making it one of the oldest public theaters in Europe, as well as in the world.
The Franciscan monastery: built as a refuge for sailors in the 15th century. Inside the monastery there is a museum with paintings exhibit, old coins, religious books and other items. The most famous exhibit is of "The Last Supper" painting.
Entertainment:
Hvar Summer Festival – a traditional summer cultural event, one of the oldest on the Adriatic coast: music, theater, folklore programs in the picturesque surroundings of the town of Hvar with the participation of artists from home and abroad. Hvar Summer Festival lasts for about a 100 days. Some of the featured events are:
"Lavender Festival" - held in the second half of June in Veli Grablje near the town of Hvar.
Fisherman's night - every place on the island of Hvar has a night dedicated to fishing. With grilled fish and wine, olive oil and bread, good music and traditional rhythms, everyone is guaranteed to have some fun.
Wine Festival - a traditional festival held in Jelsa and featuring the best wines from Hvar.
"Faros Marathon 2011" - 36th Croatian international championship in long distance swimming
"Hello Summer" concert – held every year in Hvar town. Make sure to visit the island of Hvar at this time!