Hvar
Croatia
Backpacking Hvar
Information on Hvar, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
The island of Hvar is breathtakingly beautiful and as you step onto the promenade, the buzz and excitement that fills the island during summer is immediately noticeable. Rising out of the Adriatic and up steep hills towards the Hvar Fotress, Hvar Town is full of palm trees and sun-drenched, shuttered Dalmatian buildings which overlook the harbor, St Stephen’s Square and the nearby Pakleni Islands. Beyond the town, the island is swathed in purple of lavender, olive trees and vineyards. With so much beauty – both natural and man-made – it’s no wonder that this once hidden gem of the Balkans has become one of Europe’s most sought-after holiday destinations. Hvar’s beauty doesn’t just lie in its crystal clear waters and ancient streets, but in the way it welcomes and caters to every type of holiday goer. With mega yachts floating in the harbor you might expect Hvar to be an intimidating and exclusive place – but it is anything but. Frequented by the stars and backpackers alike, Hvar has something for everyone. It’s as tranquil as it is loud, as unassuming as it is flash. So, whether you want to soak up some history, dance until the sun comes up or simply frolic in the ocean, Hvar is the place to do it.
Must See
View of Hvar Old Town - Climb to the top of Hvar Fotress, officially known as Tvrdava Fortica for an unbelievable view of Hvar old town. Originally the site of a 6th century Byzantine citadel, the Venetians eventually constructed the present-day fortress in the 13th century.
Explore Hvar Old Town - It’s easy to get wonderfully lost in these rustic stone streets and is one of our favorite things to do on the island. Let the cobblestones take you on a journey through Hvar town as the locals know it.
Must Do
Go Boating - If we had to choose our favorite day on Hvar, it is always the time we rent a small 'pasara' boat from Hvar Boats and explore the nearby Pakleni Islands. Anyone can very easily navigate the narrow Hvar strait before arriving at the Pakleni islands, a stunningly clear bay. It is a beautiful, quiet bay and you can drop anchor and jump straight off the boat into the clear blue waters, before relaxing in the beautiful mediterranean sun. It really is a day dreams are made of.
Beaches - Hvar is home to more than a few beaches that are absolutely gorgeous. Some of our favorite Hvar beaches are just a short walk from town, a few are popular coves where all the tourists come to play, and others are the little hidden gems.
Nightlife
Attracting the young, fun crowd in the high season, Hvar becomes synonymous with partying. The biggest and loudest of them all is Carpe Diem which is on its very own island. If world-famous DJ’s, twerking dancers and pool parties are your thing, then it’s the spot for you.
If you’re in the mood for a day-turns-night beach party, head over to ‘Hula Hula’ on the Adriatic coastline. There’s non-stop vibes here from around 5pm, when crowds gather to watch the sunset into the sea, before heading to the bar and getting shots to fuel the party ahead.
Get started now on planning your backpacking trip with personalized recommendations from our advisors. Your plan will include: accommodation options, food/nightlife recommendations, tours or attractions to see with recommendations for best operators, 24/7 assistance with bookings, answers to any questions and more.