The 16 Best Hvar Airbnbs for Every Budget (2026)

The Best Hvar Airbnbs

From a restored 18th-century windmill to sea-view villas, these are the best Airbnbs on Hvar, handpicked for every budget, plus where to base yourself and what to know before you go.

Updated July 2026


A summer spent on Hvar is a summer like no other.

It’s a strong statement, sure, but it’s also one we’re willing to stand by, considering we once spent 6 glorious weeks living there under the glorious summer skies ourselves.

Hvar's summer popularity also means there hundreds upon thousands of places to rest your head at night, from palazzos fit for royalty to cheap-and-cheerful private rooms.

We’ve already rounded up the island’s best luxury stays, boutique hotels, and friendly hostels in our our where to stay on Hvar guide, but since much of Hvar’s accommodation is actually authentic apartments and Airbnbs, this guide is dedicated those.

From which gorgeous medieval town to base yourself in to which beaches you want nearby, we've done the sifting for you and rounded up the very best Hvar Airbnbs for every group size and budget, plus our personal tips, and a few super-unique stays for that once-in-a-lifetime trip.

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Best Hvar Airbnbs

TOP HVAR AIRBNBS

BEST HVAR TOWN | Historic Stone Tower

BEST GROUP | Vila Božić

BEST STARI GRAD | Town House Rosario

BEST BEACHFRONT | Love Hvar Seafront Studio

BEST NORTH COAST | Studio Vartal, Jelsa

BEST UNIQUE | Plage Cachée Glamping

 

NOT SURE WHERE TO STAY?

Hvar looks small on a map, but distances between its towns can be deceptive, think: decent hills, not always decent roads, and inconsistent public transport. Choosing the right base is half your battle.

We've shared more on each area in the sections below, and our complete guide to where to stay on Hvar breaks every town down in full (read it here). But in short:

HVAR TOWN | Best for first-timers and nightlife

STARI GRAD | Best for history, calm, and character

THE NORTH (VRBOSKA, JELSA, ETC) | Best for the slow life and affordability

THE SOUTH COAST | Best for getting away from it all — more wild and newly accessible

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK

THE PARTY SCENE HAS CALMED DOWN

If your image of Hvar Town is still the old party-till-sunrise island, you’ll be pleased to know that's (thankfully) changed. Since 2024, the town’s brought in strict (well-overdue) noise regulations: the big all-night beach clubs were reined in, most bars now close around midnight, and the last two seasons have seen a far more relaxed, couple- and family-friendly Hvar Town emerge.

HVAR'S SOUTH COAST (NEW FOR 2026)

For years, getting to Hvar's wild southern coast and the string of villages from Sveta Nedjelja to Ivan Dolac and Zavala meant either a 45-min slog around the island or a white-knuckled crawl through the one-lane Pitve tunnel.

From summer 2026 (June 29, actually!), a new road has cut that drive to just 15-20 minutes, which finally makes this cliff-and-vineyard, wake-up-and-swim side of the island a very realistic base instead of just a day trip.

Airbnb options down here are still emerging, so it's worth browsing the area directly.

SEARCH | AIRBNBS ON HVAR’S SOUTH COAST




HVAR TOWN AIRBNBS

Hvar town, the island's best-known and most visited town, is one of the most beautiful Mediterranean towns we've ever laid eyes on: glamorous and lively, yes, but with pockets of calm still found a few streets back from the Riva.

It's the best all-round base for just about everyone, including first-timers and short stays; it’s closest to the ferries, restaurants and day trips, and the easiest place to manage without a car. It also holds the largest selection of Hvar's Airbnbs, ranging from ancient palaces fit for modern royalty right through to cheap and cheerful stays.

These are our favourite Airbnbs in Hvar Town:


HISTORIC STONE TOWER, HEART OF HVAR OLD TOWN

‘One of a kind’ gets thrown about a lot, but an 18th-century stone windmill in Hvar’s old town does earn the moniker. Built high above Hvar’s port by the Franciscans in 1761, the windmill once caught the Adriatic wind in its sails to grind their grain, then fell to ruin after they left. For years locals knew it as the Ruina di Molino a Vento, until its current owners lovingly and carefully restored it, blending old methods with modern comforts.

Now a protected cultural monument, the ancient stone and historic atmosphere have been preserved, while all your modern luxuries have been added: two bedrooms (sleeps up to 6), 1.5 bathrooms, a full kitchen, and all the creature comforts. The views of Hvar town are stellar, and it also offers two rarities for central Hvar: a beautifully landscaped private backyard perfect for lazy days or an evening BBQ, and free onsite parking.

This one books out quickly, particularly in peak season - so be sure to grab it once your travel plans are firmed up.

THE DETAILS

Where | Hvar town

Cost | £££ / $$$

Sleeps | Up to 6 (2 bedrooms, 3 beds)

Amenities | Full kitchen, washing machine, TV, A/C + heating, old town views, private patio and backyard, onsite parking

Tips | Best avoided if you've got very young kids or mobility concerns; a four-floor tower means plenty of stairs

BOOK | HISTORIC STONE TOWER




HOUSE DELPHINA ON THE RIVA | LUXURY

Enjoy the glamour and luxury of Hvar’s Riva, without the luxury seafront hotel price tag at House Delphina - right on the bustling waterfront. Recently renovated, and with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a dedicated laundry and a modern kitchen perfect for entertaining, there's more than enough room for a family or a group of friends to spread out.

Host Vladimir also goes above and beyond to make you feel at home, from ferry pick ups to stocking the fridge with goodies and always being on hand. For that dedication in this location, it’s an incredibly good value stay in Hvar town.

Now for the best bit: the two beautiful terraces overlooking the riva, just made for people and yacht watching - a must here in the 'St Tropez of the Adriatic'!


THE DETAILS

Where | Hvar town (riva)

Cost | £££ / $$$

Sleeps | Up to 4 (4 bedrooms)

Amenities | Full kitchen, fast WiFi, washing machine, two terraces, harbour views, pets allowed; cleaning/linens/utilities included

Tips | Being right on Hvar’s riva is central and lively - but it’s worth knowing it can get noisy at night.

BOOK | HOUSE DELPHINA ON THE RIVA



VILLA BOŽIĆ HVAR | LUXURY

Ever wanted to spend a lazy summer holiday in your own luxury villa? Vila Božić Hvar is that chance.

It’s another splurge option, but for those travelling with a group of friends or family (up to 8 people) this 3-story luxury 5-bedroom, 6-bathroom villa right next to Bonj and Hula Hula beaches is like your own personal beach retreat. There are two separate kitchens for cooking up fresh feasts, a refreshing outdoor pool for those hot summer afternoons, a spacious private garden and everything you could need to feel right at home.

Great for families or a group of friends on a summer getaway, the villa is modern, spacious, and full of one-of-a-kind touches for the perfect stay. In the evenings, cook up some fresh produce on the BBQ grill in the gazebo and enjoy a long, balmy evening with loved ones on the terrace.

Vila Božić Hvar is just a 2-minute walk from some of Hvar town’s most famed beaches, and it’s a 10-minute walk along the beautiful coastline to all the action of Hvar’s town centre.


THE DETAILS

Where | Near Bonj Beach, just outside Hvar town

Sleeps | 8 (5 bedrooms, 6 beds)

Amenities | Two living rooms, two kitchens, 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, balcony and terrace, swimming pool, private garden, private parking, air-conditioning

Cost | £££ / $$$

BOOK | VILA BOŽIĆ HVAR



THE GOLDEN PEARL | MID-RANGE

This little old town stay is the proof that excellent things come in small packages; a bright and airy apartment with modern furnishings and sea-inspired decor. The perfect stay for stylish travellers!

Best for couples but able to accommodate three (sofa bed in the living room), The Golden Pearl features a decent-sized galley kitchen with oven, stovetop, fridge and coffee machine (essential!), a king-sized bedroom with mountain views, and the real clincher: a sun-drenched patio with loungers, hot tub and an outdoor dining setting - with the highlights of Hvar’s old town just 5 minutes by foot.

THE DETAILS

Where | Hvar town (near the Franciscan Monastery)

Cost | ££ / $$

Sleeps | 2-3

Amenities | hot tub, patio with loungers, kitchen, modern furnishings, outdoor dining

BOOK | THE GOLDEN PEARL



SAN GIOVANNI – SEA VIEW APARTMENT | MID-RANGE

Tucked into the hills above Hvar town, this is the stay for a couple or young family (it sleeps up to 3 via the living room sofa bed) who want the island’s best views without the city’s hustle.

The cosy San Giovanni - Sea View Apartment is done in authentic Dalmatian style; all rustic charm but modern and comfortable where it really counts. The spacious terrace looks straight across to the Pakleni Islands, (one of our favourite Hvar day trips), and is the ideal spot for whiling away an afternoon with a sundowner in hand. Also a rarity on Hvar: pets are welcome!

THE DETAILS

Where | Hvar town

Sleeps | 2-3 (one bedroom)

Cost | ££ / $$

Amenities | private terrace, sea views, full kitchen, A/C, washing machine, free parking, pets allowed

Tips | You're up in the hills, so factor in the uphill walk after a big day out.

BOOK | SAN GIOVANNI - SEA VIEW APARTMENT



LOVE HVAR – SEAFRONT STUDIO | BUDGET

If you'd rather wake to the sound of the sea than the bustle of the old town, this bright little studio is your pick.

Set just 15m from the beach, the Love Hvar - Seafront Studio puts you close enough to roll out of bed, straight into the sea, then retreat back up to your own balcony to dry off under the delicious Croatian sun with coffee in hand. Perfect for couples (no under 15s), it’s beautifully minimal in design, with well-appointed kitchen, and that terrace looking over the Franciscan Monastery and open sea (aka, the spot for Hvar’s famed sunsets).

With the old town just five-minutes walk away, this is the choice for slow mornings, salty days, and still plenty of sightseeing between. Host (and attentive one at that) Jozo also runs a second, similar seafront studio nearby, so check both if your dates are tight.

THE DETAILS

Where | Hvar old town

Cost | £ / $

Sleeps | 2

Amenities | Beachfront access, sea/bay view, kitchen, fast WiFi, free parking

Tips | This is an adults only retreat. Check sister studio (Palm Tree) if this one's booked.

BOOK | LOVE HVAR SEAFRONT STUDIOS

OLIVA – COOL LOFT STUDIO | BUDGET

Our six weeks on Hvar were spent in this seafront studio - and it’s a stay we still recommend to all our friends!

Since our (significantly more rustic!) stay, the apartment’s benefitted from a much-needed renovation, adding plenty of modern style and comfort. But the reasons we loved it remain: the incredible balcony views over the Pakleni islands (we spent many evenings there with a sundowner), and the wonderful hosts, Tin and his sister Maja.

It's a 20–30 minute walk from the centre along Ivana Vucetica, the pretty, jasmine-scented coastal road, and only minutes from one of our favourite beaches: the pretty little cove of Pokonji Dol beach

They have a number of other apartments in the same complex, so check their full listings if this one is booked

THE DETAILS

Where | Near Pokonji Dol

Cost | £ / $

Sleeps | 3 (1 bedroom) - best for a couple of small family

Amenities | Sea/Pakleni views, balcony, kitchen, A/C

Tips | A 20–30 min walk from the centre. If it's booked, check Tin's other listings.

BOOK | OLIVA - COOL LOFT STUDIO

THE BEST STARI GRAD AIRBNBS

The historic town of Stari Grad is our favourite on the island; laidback, friendly, and charmingly rustic. It’s the antithesis of Hvar town’s glamour and bustle, and draws a totally different crowd.

It's the place you go to slow right down and savour it all: the beautiful stone streets and picturesque squares, the boutiques, galleries and restaurants, endless Aperol spritz (a prerequisite for us!), and the crystal-clear bays. Apartments are the most common accommodation here, and the quiet streets are perfect for soaking up authentic Dalmatian life.

READ |Our guide to the best things to do in Stari Grad

DOLCE TERRA | LUXURY

An ancient stone animal stall transformed into a boutique oasis; Dolce Terra is a bohemian, design-forward luxury villa perfect for a slow holiday. Every corner of this special Stari Grad airbnb is like it’s been lifted straight from the pages of a travel magazine, with reclaimed wood and local stone furnishings, chic decor, and intentional detail.

The villa sleeps 8 in 3 bedrooms, while the private pool, garden and barbecue make for the perfect lazy summer evening spent with loved ones. Enjoy the scent of wildflowers and the breeze through the olive and almond trees surrounding the property as you relax in this perfect slow retreat!

THE DETAILS

Where | Stari Grad

Cost | £££ / $$$$

Sleeps | 8 (3 bedrooms)

Amenities | Private pool + hot tub, garden, olive/almond grove, full kitchen

Tips | This is in the countryside near Stari Grad - so you will need a car to access it and get around

BOOK | DOLCE TERRA

CHIC STONE HOUSE, NEAR THE SEAFRONT | LUXURY

Down a pedestrianised cobbled lane in the old town, the Chic Stone House is a 350-year-old stone house given a gorgeous second life by a group of friends who visited the town and fell in love with it.

It sleeps eight in three very comfortable bedrooms over four floors, with two full bathrooms, and plenty of thoughtful touches that make a stay feel like a home: a vintage HiFi with Bluetooth, retro art, shelves of books and CDs, board games, and even a Nutribullet - with travel cots and high chairs also available on request.

The heart of this stay is its top floor; a bright, open kitchen and living area that spills out onto a cute rooftop terrace, just made for the famous Stari Grad sunsets. The location, right near the best eateries and boutiques, makes for a brilliant base, while cycling enthusiasts will love the easy access to the beautiful 8km coastal ride to Jelsa.

THE DETAILS

Where | Stari Grad

Cost | £££ / $$$

Sleeps | 8 (3 bedrooms, 2 baths)

Amenities | Scandi-luxe interiors, roof terrace, open-plan living, A/C, well-equipped kitchen, vintage HiFi/Bluetooth, board games, new cot + linen, highchair, smoke alarm

Tips | Built over four levels with an open staircase in the living room

BOOK | CHIC STONE HOUSE NEAR THE SEAFRONT

TOWN HOUSE ROSARIO | MID-RANGE

A rustic stone villa behind a wrought-iron gate, with vaulted wood-beam ceilings, plush furnishings, and pops of green — Town House Rosario is, quite simply, our dream Mediterranean home.

It's been recently and lovingly renovated in a stylish, traditional fashion, with no detail left unfinished, right down to the fully-stacked bookcase. It sleeps two in a queen bedroom, with a cosy living room, a fully-equipped kitchen, and - the pièce de résistance - an in-house spa (bonus: every guest receives 20% off treatments).

Travelling as a group? There are more private rooms you can book alongside it, so you can take the whole property and share its facilities together.

THE DETAILS

Where | Stari Grad

Cost | ££ / $$

Sleeps | 2 (one bedroom)

Amenities | Fully-equipped kitchen, A/C, smart TV, WiFi, free private parking, shared terrace + in-house spa (20% guest discount)

Tips | Ask about the additional private rooms if you'd like the whole property for a group.

BOOK | TOWN HOUSE ROSARIO

HOLIDAY HOME DOBRENKA

A quaint stone home in the heart of Stari Grad, the Holiday Home Dobrenka is an absolute gem. Full of rustic details, plenty of greenery, and the most gorgeous enclosed courtyard imaginable, you’ll be hard-pressed to actually find the desire to leave and explore the island.

Blending old and new perfectly, it’s a real taste of traditional Dalmatian life: the charming stone arches and staircase transport you back in time, especially at sunset, when the whole place turns pink and magical, while the interior is all about simple, modern and comfortable. The outdoor dining area is made for long, balmy summer evenings over a crisp wine and a fresh-cooked seafood dinner.

The house sleeps up to four in two bedrooms, with the delights of Stari Grad's old town right on your doorstep and the bus stop about a 10-minute walk away.

THE DETAILS

Where | Stari Grad (old town)

Cost | ££ / $$

Sleeps | Up to 4 (2 bedrooms: 1 main + 1 double day bed)

Amenities | Enclosed courtyard, outdoor dining, historic details, simple modern interior, full kitchen, BBQ

Tips | The bathroom is external (across the courtyard and down some stairs)

BOOK | HOLIDAY HOME DOBRENKA


HERITAGE STONE HOUSE RETREAT | BUDGET

Occupying the ground floor of a historic family home in the quiet Molo Selo (small village) area, the Heritage Stone House Retreat is one of the best-value stays in this guide (and among the most popular on the island!).

Centuries-old exposed stone and beams give it historic character, while recent renovations have made it all about modern comfort: a bright, open kitchen, queen bedroom (plus sofa bed to sleep four total) - and a lush, shaded front porch with traditional Dalmatian BBQ made for slow breakfasts and long grilled seafood dinners.

There’s also free parking, it’s pet and family-friendly, and barely three minutes from the shops, five from the Riva, and the bus stop connecting to Hvar town and the ferry terminal.

THE DETAILS

Where | Stari Grad

Cost | £ / $

Sleep | 2-4 (1 bedroom)

Amenities | Full kitchen (dishwasher), front porch with Dalmatian BBQ, WiFi, Smart TV, A/C, free parking (reserve ahead), pet-friendly, cot & highchair available

Tips | Parking's free but limited; reserve ahead.

BOOK | HERITAGE STONE HOUSE RETREAT


THE BEST AIRBNBS IN VRBOSKA, JELSA, AND THE QUIETER NORTH

Two of Hvar's most peaceful towns sit barely ten minutes apart on the northern coast: Vrboska is the island's smallest, a cute fishing village with ancient roots and some of Hvar's most unique Airbnbs, from glamping tents to wellness villas. Just down the coast, Jelsa is pretty and pine-fringed, wrapped around a crystal-clear bay, with great wineries and lovely beaches nearby (plus a popular nudist beach, if that's your thing).

You'll find Hvar's best-value Airbnbs here, and we've grouped them together on this slower, quieter side of the island. Just know you'll need a car here: public transport is thin, and half the fun is exploring the beaches, wineries and villages at your own pace.

READ MORE | How to visit pretty Vrboska

PLAGE CACHÉE GLAMPING - VRBOSKA | LUXURY

Hidden in a towering pine forest on the edge of a crystal-clear bay, just 10 minutes from Vrboska, the four handcrafted glamping tents of Plage Cachée offer one of Hvar's most unique and luxurious stays.

Each tent is fully equipped with private bathroom, beautifully bohemian interiors, and a private deck overlooking the sea (hello morning swims!). There’s also a communal kitchen (and kitchen garden) stocked with everything you could need, though your hosts are happy to take care of whatever you need too.

This is the kind of airbnb you come to switch your brain (and phone) off completely, and let your days be shaped by sunrise swims, golden sunsets, and slowing down to savour life’s small, meaningful moments.


THE DETAILS

Where | Basina (Near Vrboska)

Cost | £££

Sleeps | 2 per tent

Amenities | Private bathroom, private sea-facing deck, communal kitchen + garden, WiFi, parking

Tips | You will need a car as it's tucked away from town (that's the charm).

BOOK | PLAGE CACHÉE



VILLA VERBOSCANA - VRBOSKA | LUXURY

Your very own personal wellness retreat awaits: a stone villa three minutes from Vrboska’s main square, with a well-appointed private gym, outdoor pool for those hot summer afternoons, huge sauna and a hot tub to stargaze in as you feel your troubles float away.

Modern, spacious, and full of one-of-a-kind touches for the perfect stay, Villa Verboscana is great for families or groups of friends enjoying a summer getaway. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms (each with AC, ensuite and balcony); downstairs there's a full kitchen, and breezy dining and living room.

By day, soak up that famous Hvar sunshine on the terrace set with sun loungers. In the evenings, grill up some fresh produce on the BBQ and enjoy a long, balmy evening with loved ones. And when you’re ready to explore beyond the villa walls, it’s just 3-minutes walk to Vrboska’s main square.


THE DETAILS

Where | Vrboska

Cost | £££

Sleeps | 6 (3 ensuite bedrooms)

Amenities | Private outdoor pool, outdoor hot tub, private gym, Finnish sauna, huge BBQ terrace, full kitchen, 3 balconies, 2 parking spots

Tips | Each bedroom has its own ensuite and balcony. Free parking also available onsite

BOOK | VILLA VERBOSCANA



MINA BEACH BY THE SEA – JELSA | MID-RANGE

An excellent option for families seeking a beach base, the two-bedroom Mina Beach By the Sea apartment is mere steps from Mina beach, one of Hvar’s rare sandy beaches - which we’re sure any fellow parents and their littles will appreciate!

This modern, stylish stay has two large bedrooms; master with double bed and sofa, a second with single bed and sofa bed, plus there’s a workspace if needed, full kitchen, and - also rarely - a warm welcome for pets.

Conveniently, host Boris also owns Mina Beach Restaurant next door, a lovely seaside restaurant with stunning views and even better food (try the fish stew) and handcrafted cocktails.


THE DETAILS

Where | Jelsa

Cost | ££ / $$

Sleeps | Up to 5 (2 bedrooms)

Amenities | Beach access, full kitchen, washing machine, workspace, free parking, pets allowed

Tips | Head next door to Mina Beach Restaurant for an excellent Dalmatian feed!

BOOK | MINA BEACH BY THE SEA




HOUSE TIA - VRBOSKA | MID-RANGE

The 2-bedroom stone House Tia in the heart of Vrboska is an absolute gem: rustic and traditional from the outside, it’s a modern, comfortable stay on the inside.

A great option for a family or group of friends, with 2-bedrooms plus a living room sofa bed (accommodating five total), a fully-equipped kitchen with coffee machine, and a washing machine.

There’s free parking on site, a supermarket just a couple of minutes walk away, and plenty of beautiful beaches are just a stone’s throw away.



THE DETAILS

Where | Vrboska

Cost | ££ / $$

Sleeps | Up to 5

Amenities | Fully-equipped kitchen, coffee machine, washing machine, A/C, front courtyard, onsite parking

Tips | Close to the harbour, konobas and supermarket; a car helps for exploring the rest of the island.

BOOK | HOUSE TIA




STUDIO VARTAL, JELSA | BUDGET

A brilliant-value Jelsa base for two, Studio Vartal is the perfect airbnb for a simple, slow few days in Hvar’s north.

Your hosts, Benko and his family, are exactly the sort of people you cross your fingers for when booking an Airbnb: warm, generous, and always happy to point out their favourite konobas or beaches. Better yet, they make their own wine, olive oil and grappa, and are more than happy to let you sample both, or take some home.

The studio itself is cosy but thoughtfully equipped, with a comfy bed, a compact kitchen and lovely interiors. The clincher? The west-facing terrace, perfect for mornings with coffee in the sun or lingering post sunset beneath a sky full of stars.

Jelsa’s harbour, restaurants and beaches are just a five-minute leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

THE DETAILS

Where | Jelsa

Cost | £ / $

Sleeps | 2

Amenities | Well-equipped kitchen, comfortable bedroom, west-facing sea-view terrace, A/C, WiFi

Tips | Don’t miss the homemade wine, grappa and olive oil!

BOOK | STUDIO VARTAL

HVAR AIRBNBS | FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DO I NEED TO BOOK IN ADVANCE?

Yes, especially in peak season. At the height of summer, Hvar Town sees up to 20,000 visitors a day, and as you can imagine: the best Airbnbs get snapped up fast.

If you're travelling late June to August, book as far ahead as you can for the best availability and price.

WHEN’S THE BEST (AND CHEAPEST) TIME TO VISIT?

Shoulder season, hands down: April to early June, or September to October. The weather's still lovely and the island's lively, but the summer crowds and heat haven't arrived - and you’ll find it's far kinder on your wallet.

We've visited in April - early June and paid around two-thirds of peak Airbnb prices, with even bigger savings on food and activities. Trust us: by the start of June, the price of just about everything triples overnight - even paying for our humble daily ice cream from one day to the next was quite the shock!

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND ON HVAR?

In an ideal world this is a ‘weeks’ answer, not ‘days’. But, in real terms: at least three to five nights.

It might sound like a lot if you're island-hopping, but Hvar's one of the most beautiful islands in the Med, with far more to do than you can fit into just 1-2 nights. We spent six weeks there and it still didn’t feel like enough!

HVAR TOWN OR STARI GRAD?

We generally recommend Hvar Town for a first visit, maximising time and walkability, and access to ferries, day trips, etc. That said, we will always have a soft spot for our favourite, Stari Grad, for its sense of history, quiet, and some of the best rustic stone houses and lanes on the island.

Luckily, they’re only 20-minutes apart by taxi/bus, so no matter which you choose to sleep in, you can still enjoy the best of both during the day.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY ON HVAR WITHOUT A CAR?

For most: Hvar Town. It’s the capital, most day trips depart from here, there’s the highest concentration of konobas, beaches, and things to do on the island, so for a car-free central location with everything on your doorstep it is unbeatable.

The other towns, particularly Stari Grad and the north are accessible via the island bus, daily catamarans, or some via the ferry - though it will take a little more adventure to get you to your final destination, and with less flexibility to get around once you’re there.

The quieter north, and more remote south and east really do need a rental car.

WHICH AREA IS BEST FOR BEACHES?

We’ve got a comprehensive guide to the best beaches on Hvar here, but in short: Hvar town for the best range of swimming spots within a quick walking distance (Pokonji Dol, Mekićevica and the coves past Hula Hula Bar some notable options). Though plenty of perfect little bays exist all over the island!

IS HVAR STILL A PARTY ISLAND?

Much less than it used to be, which is a welcome relief. Since 2024's noise regulations, the restrictions have been placed on the biggest and most disruptive beach clubs, and most bars now close around midnight. Also note the strict clothing guidelines that were enforced at the same time (outlined at the start of this blog).

WHY STAY IN AN AIRBNB?

Because really, it’s how Hvar has always done it: in days gone by, local hosts would wait to great the ferry, where they’d barter their rooms and prices with the travellers alighting. To this day, most of the island's accommodation remains authentic apartments and stone houses, not hotels - Airbnb and other booking platforms have really just shifted that same sharing economy online.

What’s more? They're great value (your own kitchen alone saves a fortune), often one-of-a-kind (like a 15th-century stone palace, or a glamping tent over the sea) and the local hosts are half the magic: ours shared tips, sorted our itineraries, and even sent us off with jars of homemade produce.

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KEEP PLANNING YOUR HVAR TRIP:

OUR GUIDES

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Honest take: if something goes wrong: a medical emergency, a missed ferry, a scooter accident on a Croatian coastal road, travel insurance is the difference between a stressful story and a catastrophic one.

After 10+ years of full-time travel, here's what we use:

WORLD NOMADS | Offers travel insurance for independent travellers and intrepid families. Their policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

GET A QUOTE | World Nomads

HVAR DAY TRIPS

We’ve got a guide to the best day trips on Hvar, but if you’re in a hurry, these are our must-dos:

BOOK | Find your perfect Hvar day trip here

READ | Our guide to the best day trips on Hvar

CAR RENTAL

A rental car is the most flexible way to get between the towns and explore the rest of the island at the same time.

These can either be hired direct on the island, or before you depart the mainland and taken over on the ferry. A small car runs from around €30 a day in shoulder season to €60–80+ in peak summer, depending on the vehicle, and is usually returned full tank.

Good news for 2026: the once-rough Dubovica–Sveta Nedjelja road on the south coast has just been paved, so reaching that side of the island no longer means a white-knuckle dirt track, or voiding your rental insurance.

BOOK | Search car rental on Hvar via Discover Cars

GETTING TO HVAR

Most people reach Hvar by ferry or catamaran from Split; a quick, scenic hop across the Adriatic.

Compare and book ferries, buses and transfers in one place on Bookaway.

READ | For routes, timetables and booking tips, read our full guide to how to get from Split to Hvar.


PLAN YOUR HVAR TRIP WITH THESE USEFUL GUIDES


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