8 INCREDIBLE Areas + Hotels

If you’re looking for a travel destination that will take your breath away, you’ve found it. This fantastic island in Croatia has a way of leaving people in awe, so it’s no surprise if you’re wondering where to stay in Hvar! 

To help you decide where to stay, I compared all parts of the island. In short, the best area to stay in Hvar, Croatia, is Hvar Town, the capital city of the island and a fabulous place with so many attractions! 

But since the island is pretty big, I’ve also included 7 more great places to stay in Hvar. 

Besides highlighting all of the best areas on the island, I also created a list of the best hotels for each of the recommended areas and for every budget! Whether you’re a luxury seeker or a budget traveler, there’s something for you in my recommendations! 

But that’s not all, if you scroll down, you’ll also find the best seafront hotels to stay on Hvar Island (because who wouldn’t want to stay on the water in a place like Hvar Island?)

Whatever you choose, make sure you book your hotels in Hvar, Croatia, in advance! This island is so popular that thousands of tourists come here every year!

NOTE: The hotel prices in Hvar vary dramatically between seasons, with prices up to $400 extra during the high season (July & August). Make sure to factor this into your budget if you are traveling during the summer! Prices tend to drop in September, so if you’re looking to save money, book your holiday then.

Let’s start this show already!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

I know many of you are eager to book your Hvar hotels ASAP! So here’s a short list of the best Hvar Island hotels, all located in Hvar Town:

IMPORTANT TIP: When choosing a hotel, look for one with free parking. The best way to get around the island is by car, so I highly recommend renting a car. Do this once you arrive on the island – not before – to avoid paying the high ferry fees. A car is the most convenient way to get around Hvar Island, but renting a scooter is another good option. 

There are a couple of other ways to get around Hvar Island besides renting a car/scooter. The public bus network on the island works really well – you can find more info on prices and schedules here. Also, you can always call a taxi, but I have to warn you – it’s pricey. For example, the ride from Hvar Town to Stari Grad can cost €50, while a bus ride is only €3.50. 

Check out this map with the best areas to stay in Hvar! It will help you visualize all the towns I’ll discuss in the post:

1. Hvar Town – where to stay in Hvar for the first time

You only need one trip to Hvar to fall completely and madly in love with this Croatian Island! If you’re visiting for the first time, there’s no better place to stay here than Hvar Town! Set on the Western coast of the island, Hvar is the main town on the island, filled with tourist attractions, gorgeous hotels and a lively atmosphere. 

NOTE: Before we dive further into the article, I wanted to differentiate between Hvar Island and Hvar! When I talk about Hvar Island, I’m referring to the entire island of Hvar, but when I mention Hvar, I’m referring to Hvar Town, the island’s capital. 

Walking around the 13th-century Venetian walls and cobbled streets of this beautiful rustic Mediterranean town will feel as if you’ve traveled back in time –very similar to Dubrovnik! You have to stop by Fortica Fortress (map) – the walk up is stunning, the fortress is impressive, and the views of the city and the nearby islands are unlike anything else! 

While exploring the town, you should check out the Hvar Cathedral, also known as St. Stephen’s Cathedral (map), one of the town’s main landmarks, and make a stop at the Franciscan Monastery (map), another amazing historic church. 

Let’s not forget about the beautiful beaches in Hvar Town, though! Most of them are secluded, and if you go super early or during the low season, you might not even find many people there!

One of the most popular beaches around Hvar Town is Pokonji Dol Beach (map), a lovely pebble beach with crystal clear waters. I’d also recommend you check out Carpe Diem Bar (map) and Hula Hula Hvar (map), both are cool beach bars situated on gorgeous beaches! 

Hvar Town also has a large port area and harbor (map) from where you can admire the stunning sea views. The Port of Hvar (map) is a great photo spot, but it also has many cafes, bars, and restaurants. This area is known for its vibrant Hvar nightlife, which I’d recommend it as a great destination for couples. 

However, if you want to enjoy the unique perks of Hvar Town, book your hotels in advance. This is a big tourist hub, and accommodations sell out super fast, especially during high season!

Other accommodation options in Hvar Town

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As I mentioned earlier, the main town on Hvar Island is always buzzing with tourists. The airport is also set here and there are so many tourist attractions. That can only mean one thing – hotels will sell out fast (especially the best ones)! That’s why I wanted to offer 3 more stunning options besides the main list, so anyone who wants to stay in Hvar Town but may have missed the chance at any of the accommodations above has an alternative option! 

• Luxury ($$$): Heritage Hotel Park Hvar – guests at the Heritage Hotel can order room service, relax in the hot tub, or party the night away at the on-site nightclub. Each room has air conditioning and satellite TV, while some also have a balcony. 
• Mid Range ($$): Dela – boasting a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a balcony with sea views, this B&B also provides bike hire, table tennis, and private parking. 
• Budget ($): Guest House Karević – just steps away from the beach, this guest house offers rooms with a balcony, free Wi-Fi, and free private parking. Guests are also welcome to use the barbecue facilities. 

Things to do in Hvar Town

• Explore the island and visit the Fortica Fortress
• Admire the beautiful St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Franciscan Monastery
• Go for a swim at Pokonji Dol Beach
• Check out the Carpe Diem and Hula Hula Hvar beach bars
• Have a fun night out in one of the bars in the ferry port area
• Take a boat trip tour to the Vis Island and the Blue Cave

2. Jelsa – where to stay in Hvar for relaxation

Set on the central North coast of Hvar island, Jelsa is a charming area filled with olive groves, wineries, and a laid-back atmosphere that will help you relax and forget all about your daily life! Hvar Town is only a 30-minute drive away, so you can also explore the island’s capital easily from Jelsa. 

I love places that make me forget about everything and everyone and suck me into their atmosphere and lifestyle, and that’s Jelsa in a nutshell! The town is pretty old (as is most of the island), which only adds to its appeal (especially if you’re a history and culture lover)!

But that’s not the only thing that makes Jelsa such a wonderful place to stay in Hvar. Its atmosphere is super chilled. So, you won’t find as many tourists as you would in Hvar Town. Perfect if you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation.

Get ready to admire the centuries-old architecture while exploring Jelsa village and being in awe of the stunning sea views and delightful smells coming from pine forests. Stop at the Vina Tomić winery and sample some delicious local wines before you continue exploring the village.

Spend your afternoons exploring the quaint boutique shops, walking down small, hidden alleys, and checking out all the bars and restaurants! And if you need a little break from the shopping and dining, head to Park Jelsa (map) and enjoy the shade of the trees. 

Of course, there are plenty of pebble beaches as well! Grebišće Beach (map) is a great swimming beach and the perfect choice if you’re looking to spend a relaxing day under the sun. If you’re up for something a little more adventurous, Mala Stiniva Beach (map) is famous for its cliff-jumping rocks – if you’re brave enough to try. 

One of my favorite things to do while vacationing is finding hidden gems – and I’m sure that’s true for most of you. Well, in this case, I wanted to make your search easier and recommend Beach Prapatna (map), a small, secluded beach and a great place to escape the crowds. It’s not as easily accessible as other beaches, but the effort is definitely worth it! 

Unfortunately, there are no luxury hotels to stay in Jelsa, Croatia. But if you’ve got your mind set on staying in a fancy place, then I recommend the Labranda Senses Resort in Vrboska, a village set a 10-minute drive away from Jelsa.

Other accommodation options in Jelsa

Things to do in Jelsa

• Try some local wines at the Vina Tomić winery
• Cool off during a hot day at Mina Beach (map)
• Go swimming at Grebišće Beach and the secluded Beach Prapatna
• Enjoy a delicious meal with a view at Restaurant Obala (map)
• Try cliff jumping at Mala Stiniva Beach
• Visit the Jelsa Municipal Museum

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3. Stari Grad – best place to stay in Hvar for history lovers

The whole island of Hvar is a paradise for history and culture lovers, but Stari Grad is the best place to stay in Hvar for those interested in that. 

Situated on the North Coast of Hvar Island, Stari Grad is just 20 km (12 miles) from Hvar Town, and although it has plenty of attractions, the serene atmosphere is what sets it apart from the capital. 

Stari Grad translates to Old Town, and it dates back to 385 BC. 

The ancient buildings in Stari Grad are set on each side of the narrow alleys, surrounded by pine trees and colorful flowers. Here, you’ll also find a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Stari Grad Plain (map). This ancient Greek agricultural plain from the 4th century BCE still has its original crops and walls. 

The Škor Square (map) is the focal point of the town; from here, you can go on to explore the Fortress of Petar Hektorović (map) and watch the boats go by at the Nautical Port (map). 

Beach Lanterna (map) is one of the most popular swimming spots in Stari Grad, but I also suggest you take a day to enjoy Brizenica Bay (map), a gorgeous, unorganized beach – you won’t regret it! 

Finally, if you’re feeling up for exploring some more of the stunning Croatian coastline, head out to the Stari Grad Faros Ferry Port (map) and hop on a ferry to Split. Tickets and ferry schedules are available here. 

PRO TIP: the best time to embark on a Split adventure is early in the morning! During high season (May to September), there’s a ferry a 7.45 a.m.! The ferry ride lasts 2 hours, and you’ll have (almost) the entire day to explore the city. For your trip back, I recommend getting the 8.30 p.m. ferry back to Stari Grad! 

Already impressed? Well, let’s check out the hotels in the oldest town on Hvar Island! 

Other accommodation options in Stari Grad

Things to do in Stari Grad

• Visit the ancient Stari Grad Plain
• See the boats go by at the Nautical Port Stari Grad 
• Admire the beautiful Fortress of Petar Hektorović
• Check out the bars and restaurants in Škor Square
• Hop on a ferry to Split from Stari Grad Faros Ferry Port
• Escape the city heat at Beach Lanterna or Brizenica Bay

4. Vrboska – where to stay in Hvar for families

You didn’t think I would write a post with the best places to stay in Hvar without adding an option for families, right? Vrboska is a tranquil village set on the North coast of Hvar Island, a half an hour drive away from Hvar Town. 

The village was founded in the 15th century as a port and has developed into the town you see today!

I think Vrboska is a great place to stay in Hvar for families as it is pretty relaxed, it has some beaches, and it’s close to Jelsa and Stari Grad in case you want to explore other places as well! The village is also surrounded by hills, forests, and olive groves, making it the perfect place for nature and outdoor lovers.

You’ll also find plenty of attractions that will make every family member happy! Sandy Beach (map) is one of them, and then we also have the Church of St. Mary (map), a fortress church where you can go up to the roof and enjoy the views of the village and the harbor. 

As for the little ones, they’ll be super happy if you give them a whole day at Aqua Park Soline (map)! For more fun activities, I suggest windsurfing! The Bota Windsurf Center offers both courses and windsurf equipment rentals, and kids as young as 7 are welcome to try.

As for dining options, Vrboska doesn’t fall short; there are a variety of restaurants in the village, but I’d single out Škojić (map) for its delicious seafood and local produce, and Trica Gardelin (map), which not only serves tasty food but also provides some stunning sunset vistas. 

Now let’s see the best hotels in this little town on the island of Hvar:

Other accommodation options in Vrboska

Things to do in Vrboska

• Spend the day lounging on Sandy Beach
• Visit the Church of St. Mary and admire the view from the top
• Take the little ones to Aqua Park Soline
• Sign up for a windsurfing course with Bota Windsurf Center
• Go swimming at Paklena Beach (map)
• Grab dinner at Škojić or Trica Gardelin

5. Zavala – best place to stay in Hvar for beach lovers

Who’s in the mood for a Mediterranean vacation in a small village with tons of beaches, olive groves, great wineries, and a local vibe? Sign me up! Zavala is another beautiful spot on the Southern coast of Hvar Island and one of the best places on the island for people who are looking for beaches with crystal blue water. 

Away from all the fuss and buzz in Hvar Town, 20 miles (30 km) to be more exact, Zavala is a small village where you can get a taste of the local life of Hvar. You’ll find the harbor just a short walk from the central part of the town.

Get ready for some breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The coastal side of the village is so charming, its pebble beaches look as if someone took them out of Renaissance painting.

But since this is THE spot for beach bums, I want to recommend some of the best beaches in Zavala. Skalinada Beach (map) and Zavala Beach (map) are the more popular beaches and highly frequented by tourists, while Žučica Beach (map) and Petarčica Beach (map) are a little off the beaten path, more intimate, and most importantly, less crowded. 

In case you’re looking for more things to add to your agenda, I’d advise you to explore the village of Zastražišće! It’s just a 30-minute drive away from Zavala and home to the Little Blue Cave (map), a truly stunning natural formation. Make sure you stop by restaurants and bars at the harbor! You can’t leave the island without eating Hvar’s best seafood (or veggies if you’re vegetarian)! Restaurant Davor (map) is an excellent choice for all diets – I highly recommend you give it a try.

Other accommodation options in Zavala

Things to do in Zavala

• Go for a swim at Zavala or Skalinada Beach
• Discover the nudist beach of Zavala, Beach Stela (map)
• Go off the beaten path and discover Petarčica Beach and Žučica Beach
• Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Restaurant Davor

6. Milna – where to stay in Hvar for foodies

Set right near Hvar Town (a 10-minute drive away), Milna is a tiny fishing village, perfect for anyone who wants to be close to the capital city but far enough to avoid the crowds and busy streets! This quaint village is famous for its yummy island food and homemade olive oil! And let’s not forget the incredible wine and other traditional dishes.

Milna is located on the south coast of Hvar, just a stone’s throw away from Hvar Town. This area has a few pebble beaches that you should check out! Milna Beach (map) and Beach Mala Milna (map) are the 2 unmissable beaches.

But make sure you explore the marina and the Western part of the village. There, you’ll see beautiful examples of Baroque-Renaissance architecture! 

Now, back to the major reason why you’d visit Milna – the food! I’m a major foodie, and it’s super important for me (as I’m sure it is for many of you) to eat delicious food while on holiday! Of course, I have a couple of recommendations for Milna dining. 

First up, Restaurant Moli Onte (map), serving a specialty fish stew and a variety of meat dishes (the lamb was highly praised). You should also visit Gostionica Mala Milna (map) and try their shrimp and mussels. 

FUN FACT: A really long time ago, in the 18th century, Milna was actually used for lavender cultivation, and its oil reaches as far as France, where it was used for perfume making!

Other accommodation options in Milna

Things to do in Milna

• Have a relaxing at Milna Beach or Beach Mala Milna
• Swim in the crystal clear water at Velo Borce (map)
• Have the fish stew at Restaurant Moli Onte
• Enjoy the mussels at Gostionica Mala Milna
• Try the catch of the day at the restaurant Notos Hvar (map)
• Take a short trip to Hvar Town

7. Sucuraj – where to stay on Hvar off the beaten path

Looking for a place on Hvar Island away from all the hustle and bustle? Well, Sućuraj is the ideal fit for you! This is the smallest town on the island, situated on the Eastern Coast and 77 km (47 miles) away from Hvar Town. 

This little town has a very tranquil atmosphere and is a good distance away from the tourist hotspots – perfect for staying off the beaten path! 

The town’s main landmark is the Sućuraj lighthouse (map), one of the oldest lighthouses on the Adriatic Sea. I definitely recommend you walk up to it – the journey is very scenic and once you get there, the views are even better! 

Sućuraj, like most other places on Hvar Island, has some amazing beaches.However, most of the beaches on this part of the island are small and wild, so they won’t be too crowded. Beach Perna (map) and Beach Mlaska (map) are my top 2 choices for a beach day in Sućuraj. 

Since the town is small, there’s not too much you can do. So, if you want some change of scenery, you can visit nearby Bogomolje, another small village with some great beaches, or venture further inland to Gdinj, another picturesque village where you can have a pleasant beach day. 

NOTE: there are no luxury hotels in Sućuraj, so if you want to treat yourself to a more upscale vacation, I suggest staying in Zavala at the Hotel Stella Mare and exploring Sućuraj on a day trip – the drive is just over an hour long! In this situation, I’d highly recommend renting a car and exploring the island at your leisure. 

Other accommodation options in Sućuraj

Things to do in Sućuraj

• Walk up to the Sućuraj lighthouse and enjoy the view
• Go swimming at Beach Perna and Beach Mlaska
• Spend a quiet day at Česminica (map), a small beach
• Explore the nearby villages of Bogomolje and Gdinj
• Enjoy lunch at Restoran Fortica (map)

8. Sveta Nedjelja – best area to stay in Hvar on a budget

Hvar Island may not seem like the best destination for budget travelers, but I can assure you that there are more affordable parts of the island. The best example of this is Sveta Nedjelja, a small village with a quiet atmosphere situated on the South Coast, 18 km (11 km) away from Hvar Town. 

One of the best things to do in Sveta Nedjelja is climb the Saint Nicholas Summit (map), where you’ll find the Church of St. Nicholas and the most stunning view of the Adriatic Sea and the nearby islands. This is the highest peak on the island (628 m / 2060 ft), so the hike can be challenging for some people; luckily, you can drive almost all the way up to the top! 

Another spot that offers gorgeous views is the Wide Cave (map); nestled among the rock, this cave provides a unique viewpoint over the village. Yet another noteworthy attraction is the Red Rocks (map), red cliffs that form caves where you can swim and snorkel. This is also a popular spot for cliff jumping. 

Sveta Nedjelja has its fair share of good beaches: Sveta Nedjelja Beach (map) and Skala Beach (map) are 2 of the more popular beaches here, but there are also some other, more secluded beaches that are worth exploring. 

Lučišća Beach (map) is a small, secluded beach and one of the best beaches on the entire island, trailing just slightly behind Dubovica Beach (map). This beach is about a half an hour drive away from Sveta Nedelja, but I highly recommend you hop in your car (or rent one) and make the drive to Dubovica Beach – you’ll be grateful you did! 

NOTE: Sveta Nedelja doesn’t have any luxury hotels. That, combined with the more affordable accommodation prices, makes it the perfect place for budget stays. If you want luxury, you can stay in Hvar Town and drive to Sveta Nedelja to experience all it has to offer. 

Other accommodation options in Sveta Nedjelja

Things to do in Sveta Nedjelja

• Hike up to the Saint Nicholas Summit and admire the views
• Discover the Wide Cave and snap some unique photos
• Try cliff jumping from the Red Rocks
• Spend a day under the sun at Sveta Nedjelja Beach or Skala Beach
• Catch the sunset from Veli Kamik (map)
• Explore the island’s best beaches: Lučišća Beach and Dubovica Beach

BONUS: Best seafront hotels in Hvar

Hvar Island is one of the most beautiful places in Croatia! The history, the food, and the incredible beaches will make this holiday unforgettable! I know many of you will want to wake up to the best views of the beautiful shorelines and the Adriatic Sea, and that’s why I made this bonus!

If you’re looking for the best seafront hotels in Hvar, then my friend, you’re in for a treat! Below are 4 fabulous options, so let’s not waste any more time and check them out!

Luxury (€350 and up)

• Hotel Podstine – this hotel offers a private beach area in a secluded bay in Hvar Town! Surrounded by palm and pine trees, the accommodation has comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a pool. 
• Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort – one of the best hotels in Hvar – it has super modern rooms with all the necessary facilities and a balcony. Its rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views and a pool bar serving delicious cocktails.

Mid-range (€150 – €200)

• Golden Bay – each suite at this aparthotel has unique walls made of stone, lots of space, and a small kitchenette. The accommodation also offers breakfast, which you can enjoy on the terrace, and a children’s playground for the little ones!

Budget (up to €150)

• Cast Away – a holiday park located in Vrboska, offering wooden tents equipped with a mattress, pillows, and hammocks! Set right by the sea, the eco-village has all the necessary facilities, including a shared kitchen, 2 shared bathrooms, and a terrace. 

FAQs about where to stay in Hvar

🏝️ What part of Hvar is best to stay in?

The top spot for staying on Hvar Island is Hvar Town! The island’s capital city has all the main attractions, fabulous beaches, great restaurants, and some of the best Hvar hotels like Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel and Pharos Hvar Hotel. 

🔝 Is it worth staying in Hvar?

Yes, you’ll never forget your trip to Hvar! This island has ancient villages, delicious food that you’ll never get tired of, and excellent beaches!

📅 How many days do you need in Hvar?

I recommend staying 4 or 5 days in Hvar, Croatia. That way you can explore more parts of the island, visit the main attractions, and check out more beaches! 

🚗 How do I get around Hvar?

The best way to get around Hvar is by car, as this gives you the most freedom to get around the island and visit everything on your list. If you’re not traveling with your own car, you should definitely rent one. 

🕺 What is the best place to stay in Hvar for nightlife?

The best place for nightlife on Hvar Island is Hvar Town, where you’ll find a variety of beach bars, bistros, and restaurants and have plenty of things to fill every night of your trip. 

💰 Which is the best affordable accommodation in Hvar Town?

The best affordable accommodation in Hvar Town is the White Rabbit Hostel, providing accommodation in mixed dormitories and free Wi-Fi. Another great option is the Guest House Karević situated near the beach and offers free private parking. 

🙋 Where is the best Hvar location for solo travelers?

If you’re planning a solo trip to Hvar, Jelsa is a great place to base yourself in. It’s quieter than Hvar Town but still offers plenty of things to do and some amazing accommodations like B&B Aurora and Rubin Jelsa. 

🤔 Is Hvar Town or Stari Grad better?

Hvar Town is the better choice if you want to enjoy the best nightlife and stay in the best boutique hotels on Hvar Island, while Stari Grad is the better choice if you want to learn more about the island’s history and have access to quieter beaches. 

Final thoughts on where to stay in Hvar

Croatia, you’ve done it again! You’ve offered us yet another fabulous holiday location! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Hvar and that you’re already booking a hotel for your trip. 

If you find yourself a bit overwhelmed with all these options, don’t worry, it’s normal! I like to keep my readers informed at all times! But I also want to help you make the best choice so here are my top 2 favorite hotels, both located in Hvar Town:

• Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel – one of the best luxury hotels that offer panoramic city views from the rooftop terrace, a swimming pool, and a spa center
• Pharos Hvar Hotel – a comfortable hotel with brightly furnished rooms, an outdoor pool, and a gym, plus an amazing bar

Hvar Town is one of the best places to stay on the island and the most popular with tourists! So book your hotels in advance, no matter which village you choose, but especially in Hvar Town and Stari Grad. Otherwise, you’ll risk losing your favorite hotel!

Well, my work is done here! I’m sure you can start planning your Hvar holiday properly now that you have all this information! However, if you can’t find something specific, or maybe you’ve got other fantastic luxury hotels that you want to suggest, leave me a comment below. I’m here to answer all your queries!

Enjoy your holiday on this beautiful island!

Have a fun trip,

Victoria

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