Hvar Island, Croatia Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Located in the stunning Adriatic Sea, Hvar Island is a paradise destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. This Croatian island boasts crystal clear waters, picturesque beaches, and charming old towns filled with history and culture. With a mild Mediterranean climate and breathtaking views, Hvar Island is the perfect place to relax and unwind. From its vibrant nightlife to its delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone on this idyllic island. Whether you’re seeking adventure or seeking solace, Hvar Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Why Hvar Island, Croatia?

  • Hvar is one of Europe’s sunniest islands with over 2,700 hours of sunshine.
  • The 16th-century Hvar Fortress offers stunning panoramic views.
  • Lavender fields give Hvar its nickname “Lavender Island.”
  • The Pakleni Islands are perfect for boating and hidden beaches.
  • Hvar’s vineyards produce high-quality local wines.

Hvar Island, Croatia Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
48° F
° F
February
50° F
° F
March
55° F
° F
April
63° F
° F
May
70° F
° F
June
77° F
° F
July
82° F
° F
August
82° F
° F
September
77° F
° F
October
68° F
° F
November
59° F
° F
December
52° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
3.5 inches
February
3.1 inches
March
3.1 inches
April
2.7 inches
May
2.2 inches
June
2.2 inches
July
1.4 inches
August
2.0 inches
September
2.6 inches
October
3.6 inches
November
4.4 inches
December
4.6 inches

History

Hvar Island, located off the coast of Croatia, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It is believed that the island was first settled by the Illyrians around 3500 BC, and later came under the rule of the Greeks and Romans.

During the Roman Empire, Hvar Island, known as “Pharos,” was an important naval base and hub of trade. The island was also home to a thriving agricultural community, specializing in producing wine, olive oil, and lavender, which are still major industries on the island today.

In the 7th century, Hvar Island was conquered by the Slavs and became part of the Croatian kingdom. Over the centuries, the island was ruled by various powers, including the Venetians, Hungarians, and Austrians. Each of these rulers left their mark on Hvar, with the Venetians building fortifications and palaces, and the Austrians constructing public buildings and improving infrastructure.

In the 16th century, Hvar Island experienced a period of prosperity as a center for arts and culture, with many notable poets, writers, and artists calling the island home. This period also saw the construction of some of the island’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of St. Stephen and the Arsenal building.

However, Hvar Island’s strategic location also made it a target for invasion and pirate attacks. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the island was repeatedly attacked by the Ottoman Empire and the Venetian Republic. This led to the construction of defensive fortifications, including the imposing Fortica fortress, which still stands today and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

In the 19th century, Hvar Island was incorporated into the Austro-Hungarian Empire and became a popular tourist destination for wealthy Europeans. The island’s mild climate, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage attracted many visitors, and the tourism industry began to flourish.

During World War II, Hvar Island was occupied by Italian and German forces, and the local population suffered greatly. After the war, the island became part of Yugoslavia and remained a popular tourist destination, with the construction of modern hotels and infrastructure.

In the 21st century, Hvar Island has continued to thrive as a top travel destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Today, Hvar Island remains a popular spot for sailing, beach vacations, and cultural exploration, offering a unique blend of ancient charm and modern amenities.

Transportation on Hvar Island, Croatia

Getting to Hvar Island, Croatia and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are generally well-maintained, though rural routes may be narrow or winding.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious on narrow roads and steep hills. Parking can be limited in busy areas like Hvar Town. Renting a scooter or ATV is a popular option for exploring the island.

Local Transportation

Hvar offers various transportation options for easy exploration. Public buses connect major towns and villages, while taxis and private transfers are readily available. Car, scooter, and bike rentals provide flexibility for discovering the island’s attractions. Boats and water taxis serve nearby islands and coastal areas, making travel convenient and scenic.

Know Before You Go...® - Hvar Island, Croatia Travel Tips

Before making their way to Hvar Island, Croatia , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Hvar Island, Croatia even more relaxing.

Capital: Hvar Town
Population: 32,000 (estimated)
Size: 116 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in Hvar Island is Croatian. However, due to its popularity among tourists, English is also widely spoken as a secondary language. Other languages that may be heard on the island include German, Italian, and Spanish.
Currency:
  • Croatian Kuna (HRK) is the official currency of Croatia. It is recommended to exchange your currency for Kuna upon arrival, as not all establishments accept other currencies.
  • Most major credit and debit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, are widely accepted in Hvar Island. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you, as some smaller establishments may only accept cash payments.
  • There are several ATMs located throughout Hvar Island, making it convenient for visitors to withdraw cash in the local currency. However, it is always advisable to notify your bank before traveling to ensure your card will work abroad.
  • While some establishments may accept foreign currencies, it is best to have Croatian Kuna on hand for your purchases. If you do pay in a foreign currency, you may receive change in Kuna.
  • While traveler's cheques used to be a popular form of payment, they are not widely accepted on Hvar Island.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping in Hvar Island is not mandatory, but it is appreciated and expected in certain situations.
  • The standard tip in restaurants is 10% of the total bill, although some establishments may include a service charge in the final price.
  • In bars and cafes, rounding up the bill is common. Tipping is also expected for services such as hairdressers, tour guides, and taxi drivers.
  • Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied to most goods and services in Croatia, including in Hvar Island. The standard rate is 25%, which is included in the price of most items and services. However, some tourist services, such as accommodation and restaurant meals, have a reduced VAT rate of 13%.
  • Visitors can apply for a VAT refund on purchases over 740 HRK (approx. 100€) at the airport upon leaving the country.
Dress Code: The dress code in Hvar Island, Croatia is likely to be casual and relaxed, with a preference for light and comfortable summer attire.
Topography: Hvar Island in Croatia has a rugged and diverse topography, featuring rocky coastal cliffs, rolling hills covered in olive groves and vineyards, and a central mountain range.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +385 * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the island, including remote beaches and villages. * Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

Hvar Island, Croatia Weddings and Honeymoons

In Hvar Island, Croatia getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply for a marriage license at the local Maticni Ured (Registry Office) in Hvar or another municipality in Croatia.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates (translated into Croatian and certified with an Apostille).
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage (translated into Croatian).
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Application form provided by the Registry Office.

Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Croatian by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Croatian.

Costs: Marriage fees vary but are typically around €50 to €100. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Hvar Island offers stunning venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including historic churches, secluded beaches, and luxury villas. Popular locations include St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Pakleni Islands, and charming vineyards. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.