The most popular of all the Dalmatian Islands, Hvar is renowned for its flourishing restaurant scene, scenic lavender fields and glorious sunshine. Located just off the coast of Makarska Riviera, it's brimming with natural beauty, including 250km of coastline to lay out on - beach-hoppers delight!
Of course, there's also ample history to discover throughout your villa holiday in Hvar, with Greeks, Romans and Byzantines all leaving their mark on the island. So, whether you're keen to uncover those ancient stories or simply want a place to kick back and unwind, your needs will certainly be met in Hvar.
Style and character are everything at Oliver’s Travels, and our collection of handpicked villas in Hvar have this in spades.
We have destination experts who know the ins and outs of all our regions, picking villas in Hvar that aren’t only unique, but also in the best locations. What's more, our villas are 100% family-friendly, and have the ‘wow’ factor.
Our helpful concierge team are on-hand to make your stay extra special. Whether you want a fully-stocked fridge, a local in-house chef to cook your meals, housekeeping or any other extra service – consider them your holiday genie, who will happily grant your wishes.
History, culture, natural beauty and brilliant sunbathing spots: Hvar truly has it all when it comes to a sun-drenched European getaway. You need merely take a stroll around one of Hvar's various postcard-worthy towns to feel instantly at peace, with the fresh scents of rosemary and thyme drifting down from its hills.
A sense of history also pervades throughout the island. It was once perfectly positioned to service Adriatic sailing routes, acting as a bustling trading hub dating all the way back to the Grecian period. Island ownership has since changed hands across the centuries, seen through the varied architecture that still stands today.
Prefer to live life firmly in the present? The spirited party scene and fun-filled bars let you forget all your troubles as you dance the night away, embracing island life to the fullest.
Hvar is one of the sunniest spots in Europe, so you may be content with spending your villa holiday simply spreading out by the pool. However, if you do choose to go out and explore, there are plenty of things to do in Hvar.
Up for a climb? Head to Sveti Nikola, which sits 628m above sea level. Providing gorgeous views of the island and beyond, its peak is also home to the 15th century Church of St Nicholas.
If you prefer to keep at ground level, head to Saint Stephen's Square in Hvar Town. It's home to the famous Hvar Theatre, which was the first public theatre in Europe, as well as a grand Baroque cathedral and beautiful bell tower. You'll also find bars, restaurants and little cafes, allowing you to enjoy a sunset scoop of ice cream or refreshing cocktail.
Of course, if you line up your visit during June and July, you'll be privy to the island's most beloved natural beauty: blooming lavender fields. There's even a two-day lavender festival in Velo Grablje, teaching you about the flower's various uses. And, if you prefer a livelier festival, there are plenty of music events held throughout the summer too.
Hvar's cuisine stays fairly true to what is served widely across Croatia. However, where this popular island really stands out is with its seafood offering. Sourced straight from the surrounding Adriatic Sea, it's unsurprisingly some of the freshest you'll ever taste, widely used in risottos and pasta dishes.
However, the signature dish of Hvar is gregada. This traditional white fish stew is made using potatoes, wine, onions and garlic, and has become something of a Dalmatian staple.
Vegetarians will still have plenty to try throughout their stay though - many goat's and sheep's cheeses are made on the island, while seasonal fruits and vegetables are served at their ripest. And to wash it all down? A refreshing glass of the finest Croatian wine.
Great for kids: Crystal-clear waters are all that's needed to satisfy aspiring mermaids and mermen. The Adriatic Sea awaits!
Great for teens: Active older ones are sure to enjoy the 20-minute scenic climb up to Hvar Fortress, being greeted by snap-worthy views at the top.
Ask for help: Hvar locals are generally very friendly, and will happily give directions if you get lost in the cobblestone streets.
Hvar has some of the clearest waters in the world, allowing you to see all the way to the bottom. That means snorkeling is next level here, so grab a mask and give it a go!
Despite only being a relatively small island, Hvar is scattered with towns and villages that all boast their own unique character. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in history, spend all your time near the water, or focus on the tried-and-tested tourist spots, you'll certainly find somewhere that ticks all your holiday boxes.
And, if you want to extend your stay in the Dalmatian Islands further, we also offer villas in Brac, Korcula and more.
Vrboska is the smallest town on the island, but that doesn't mean it should be overlooked! This tiny pine tree-filled settlement straddles two sides of a scenic bay, with a picturesque bridge connecting them both.
Unsurprisingly, Hvar Town is the hub of the island, boasting beautiful beaches, charming boutiques and a bustling nightlife. Among its cobblestone streets, you'll also find various cultural landmarks plus the Franciscan Monastery and its famous Last Supper. However, you'll mostly be drawn to its turquoise waters that lap against the pebbly shore.
Stari Grad is Hvar's oldest settlement, colonised by the Greeks in 384 BC. Its most notable icon is the 16th century Tvrdalj Castle, but a stroll around the old town will reward you with many more monuments to feast your eyes on. Then it's your stomachs turn, with ample restaurants ready to feed you up along the promenade.
If you've come to Hvar hoping to simply unwind on the sand, Jelsa could be your best bet. Situated on the central north coast, its beautiful waterfront gives way to centuries-old churches, picturesque squares and olive groves. Jelsa is also a jumping-off point to explore Bol and Split, with ferry services departing regularly.
Hvar doesn't have an airport, so you'll need to fly into one nearby before getting a connecting boat service. We'd suggest arriving in Split, with car ferries and catamarans running year round. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
A catamaran service is also available from Dubrovnik, though it takes around 3 and a half hours to cover the distance.
For those hoping to explore more of Hvar, we'd recommend hiring a car. There are several local rental companies on the island, but if you've flown into Split or Dubrovnik first, we'd suggest getting your car there instead.
The roads across Hvar are generally in good condition and connect all the major towns.
For those who don't want to hire a car, you'll have to take the buses to get around. Cazmatrans runs a fairly regular service across the island, connecting Hvar Town with Stari Grad, Jelsa, the ferry port and more. The schedule is available at GetByBus.
Winding paths, cobblestone streets and hidden gems - Hvar is designed to be explored by foot! Just be sure to pack comfortable shoes when navigating your way around, especially when it comes to the older settlements.
Be sure to buy your tickets in advance for the ferries and catamarans - come summertime, they'll likely be fully booked.
