Where to Stay in Hvar Island: Top 10 Amazing Spots for Every Budget
Nestled in the Adriatic Sea, Hvar Island in Croatia is a gem waiting to be discovered. It’s famed for its hidden coves, exquisite local wines, and rich history. When you visit, plan to bask in the sunshine on its sparkling shores, swim in the serene waters, and savor delightful local dishes.
Hvar Town is a vibrant place filled with historic charm. Its narrow, winding streets showcase centuries of architecture and abundant culinary treats. The town has also gained a reputation as a top spot for nightlife, drawing party enthusiasts from near and far. If a quieter getaway is more your pace, other towns and villages on the island offer a variety of experiences, from serene beach views to captivating ancient sites and scenic mountains, ensuring a memorable trip for everyone.
Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Hvar Town
- Where to Stay in Hvar Town
- Historic Stari Grad
- Recommended Places to Stay in Stari Grad
- Jelsa
- Where to Stay in Jelsa
- Vrboska
- Where to Stay in Vrboska
- Zavala
- Where to Stay in Zavala
- Charming Sućuraj
- Where to Stay in Sućuraj
- Milna
- Where to Stay in Milna
- Sveta Nedelja
- Places to Stay in Sveta Nedelja
- More Travel Guides
Key Takeaways
- Hvar Island offers stunning beaches and clear waters.
- Hvar Town is known for historic charm and nightlife.
- Smaller villages provide tranquil settings and natural beauty.
Hvar Town
Where to Stay in Hvar Town
When looking for places to stay in Hvar Town, you’ll find a mix of luxurious hotels and more affordable options. Many of these accommodations are nestled in historic Venetian buildings, providing a charming atmosphere.
Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort: This luxurious resort boasts rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. It’s famous for its beach club that includes a restaurant and bar dating back to 1927.
Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel: A stylish hotel, conveniently located just a few minutes from the Hvar Ferry Terminal. The contemporary rooms are tastefully decorated, with some offering private balconies.
Hotel Podstine: Perfect for those who want to be near the town’s action but in seclusion. It offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to local attractions.
The town’s waterfront boulevard is lined with restaurants where you can enjoy traditional meals like fresh fish and pasta. If you fancy some nightlife, Hvar Town is well-known for its vibrant party scene. However, quieter options exist if you prefer relaxed evenings.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Hotels: For a premium experience, try hotels like the Palace Elisabeth, Heritage Hotel Park Hvar, and Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort. They provide top-notch amenities and stunning views.
Mid-Range: Places like Pharos Hvar Hotel offer good value for money with comfortable rooms and convenient locations.
Hostels: If you’re on a budget, The White Rabbit Hostel provides an affordable yet cozy staying option.
Places of Interest
While in Hvar Town, you’ll have easy access to many interesting sites:
Historical Sites: The Hvar Fortress offers a breathtaking view of the town. Don’t miss the Cathedral and the Franciscan Monastery for a touch of history.
Beaches: Enjoy a day at Pokonji Dol Beach or take a short boat ride to the beautiful Pakleni Islands for a different beach experience.
Cultural Spots: Visit the local museums and the historic Arsenal, which houses one of the oldest European theaters.
Whether you’re looking for a lively nightlife or a serene retreat, Hvar Town offers a variety of accommodations to suit your needs and budget.
Historic Stari Grad
Stari Grad is a charming and tranquil destination that’s perfect for families and history enthusiasts. This town stands out as one of the oldest settlements in Croatia, with history embedded in its architecture and streets. As you wander around, you can really feel the old-world charm.
Located on the northern coast of Hvar Island, Stari Grad serves as a convenient base for exploring the area. The town hosts the main ferry terminal, making it easy to hop on a ferry to other parts of the island or catch a bus to nearby towns.
One of the appealing aspects of staying in Stari Grad is the affordability compared to Hvar Town. It’s only a 30-minute drive away from Hvar Town, yet the accommodation here is more budget-friendly. You’ll find hotels with great amenities by the waterside and cozy apartments closer to the town center.
Recommended Places to Stay in Stari Grad
B&B Heritage Villa Apolon: For those wanting a touch of elegance, this hotel is a great choice. It’s historically rich, and you’re just a short five-minute walk from the notable Tvrdalj Castle.
Staying in Stari Grad gives you the best of both worlds: a peaceful retreat with easy access to vibrant spots on Hvar Island. Happy travels!
Jelsa
Located in a hidden, picturesque bay, Jelsa is a quaint old fishing town that offers a relaxing, family-friendly vibe. Although it may not boast grand architecture, what Jelsa excels at is providing a serene environment surrounded by lush pine forests and beautiful beaches. It’s the perfect place to stroll through narrow streets, unwind in local parks, or sit in the town squares watching the world go by.
Where to Stay in Jelsa
When it comes to accommodation, Jelsa offers good value compared to the more tourist-heavy Hvar Town. Whether you prefer a luxurious resort by the seafront or a cozy apartment in the charismatic town center, Jelsa has a variety of options to suit your needs.
Villa Riva: Located near the ferry terminal with services to Split, this villa is ideal for visitors who like to be close to the action.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Jelsa also has great camping spots. Imagine pitching a tent amidst fresh pine forests and waking up to the sound of waves lapping the shore. Whether you’re on a budget or just love nature, camping in Jelsa is an unforgettable experience.
Vrboska
The picturesque village of Vrboska, nestled on the northern coast of Hvar Island, is truly captivating. Known for its quaint charm, Vrboska features a small island in the bay, connected by several quaint bridges. The village has a mix of old town houses showcasing various architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque. While wandering through its ancient streets, you can observe remnants of old churches and find luxurious villas dotting the area.
Surrounding Vrboska, you will find lush pine forests, olive groves, and vineyards. This rich landscape ensures that the village has a plentiful supply of fresh, authentic cuisine. Long walks from the village to the water’s edge will lead you to a famous naturist beach, or you can choose from numerous pebble beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Where to Stay in Vrboska
- Senses Resort – For a truly secluded getaway experience, Senses Resort is an excellent choice. Located on a peninsula a bit farther from town, it offers tranquility and stunning minimalist design, making it a unique place to stay. You’ll feel like you’ve discovered a hidden retreat with modern comforts.
Zavala
Zavala is renowned for its delightful white wine, bogdanjuša. This quaint village offers peaceful pebble beaches and a serene escape from crowded hotspots on Hvar Island. Nestled in this sleepy village are a few restaurants dishing out fresh, local cuisine and a village store for your essential needs. With olive groves, vineyards, and aromatic herbs like lavender and rosemary flourishing nearby, Zavala is perfect for nature walks and refreshing dips in hidden coves.
Where to Stay in Zavala
- Villa Stella Mare – Just a five-minute stroll from Zavala Port Beach, this hotel is ideal if you want to be near the sun, sea, and sand.
Zavala offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. Here is a brief overview of what you can expect:
| Accommodation | Distance to Beach | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Villa Stella Mare | 5-minute walk | Near the port beach, sea views |
Staying in Zavala means you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the village while being close to pristine beaches and clear blue waters. The village is a hidden gem on Hvar Island, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Charming Sućuraj
Nestled between the peaks of Biokova and the expansive Adriatic Sea, Sućuraj is a town that’s rich with history and charm. Over the centuries, it’s been home to a variety of cultures, from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the French. This colorful past has left its mark on the architecture, making it a fascinating spot to explore.
Despite being the smallest town on Hvar Island, Sućuraj has a unique appeal. Walk through the quiet streets, and you’ll find buildings that tell tales of bygone eras. Local eateries serve up mouth-watering dishes made from fresh island produce, ensuring every meal is a delight.
The beaches in Sućuraj are a hidden gem. You’ll find them in peaceful, sheltered bays that are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Whether you’re interested in fishing, sailing, or simply soaking up the sun, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with excellent ferry connections, you can easily visit other towns along the coast.
Where to Stay in Sućuraj
Apartments Bartul offer simple, comfortable accommodations ideal for a budget-friendly stay. Nearby, you can explore the historic Tvrđava Fortica or visit the picturesque Sućuraj Lighthouse, which boasts stunning sea views.
Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or the beaches, Sućuraj offers a bit of everything. It’s a wonderful destination that promises both relaxation and adventure.
Milna
Milna is an idyllic spot for a relaxing vacation. The town is nestled around a charming bay, surrounded by beautiful coves and beaches. The tiny port at the heart of Milna is where you can find cozy restaurants serving fresh fish and a local market offering home-grown vegetables and olive oil. It’s a great way to experience the local way of life firsthand.
If you’re into exploring, you can take a boat from the harbor to nearby islands or rent a vehicle to drive along the coast to Hvar Town, known for its dazzling nightlife. Milna itself is perfect for sunbathing, diving, and enjoying a slower pace of life. The proximity to Hvar Town means you can easily head there for a lively evening and then return to Milna for a peaceful night’s sleep.
One of the highlights of Milna is the accommodation options. Stay in beautifully built old stone houses along the picturesque coastline or opt for smaller, family-owned apartments within the village.
Where to Stay in Milna
- Villa ForTudor: Located a short walk from local restaurants and bars, this property offers serviced apartments that are ideal for independent travelers, families, or anyone looking to save money by cooking their own meals.
The combination of serene surroundings, charming local life, and easy access to busier areas makes Milna a wonderful place to stay on Hvar Island.
Sveta Nedelja
Nestled at the highest point on Hvar Island, Sveta Nedelja offers breathtaking views from its steep cliffs down to the shimmering sea. This charming village draws visitors with its wonderful beaches, enticing hiking trails, and renowned Plavac red wine. Grown on the sunny slopes around the village, this wine is just one of the area’s many attractions. The small market here is a great place to pick up fresh, local produce and perhaps a bottle or two of the famed wine. As you wander the old streets, you’ll also find cozy eateries serving traditional Croatian dishes, along with a few shops for essentials.
Places to Stay in Sveta Nedelja
- B&B Pansion Jure Matijević – If you’re seeking a simple yet stylish place to stay, this bed and breakfast won’t disappoint. Picture whitewashed walls, tiled floors, and dark wood furniture giving it that laid-back Mediterranean charm. This welcoming spot promises a comfortable base for exploring the beauty of Sveta Nedelja.
