Where to Stay In Hvar (Everything You Need to Know)

Hvar is both an island and a town of the same name on the island, but whichever you decide to stay in, you're guaranteed a fabulous time. Located in the Adriatic Sea, just off Croatia's Dalmatian coast, Hvar is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its vibrant nightlife and laid-back atmosphere.

Here you'll find culture, history, beautiful buildings, and unparalleled beaches, with some hotels even offering proximity to a secluded bay and bars where a mix of locals and visitors can relax and enjoy a tasty tipple.

Although Hvar is still cheaper than the UK or US for a holiday, for example, it can be a little pricier than some of Croatia's other popular destinations, especially if you choose to stay at one of the 5-star hotels in Hvar, so bear this in mind if you decide to visit this Croatian island. You might want to search for a Hvar hostel to avoid breaking the bank.

If you're searching for unique places to stay in Hvar or wondering where to stay in Hvar town, I will answer all your questions with my in-depth guide to neighborhoods and hotels to stay on Hvar island.

The Best Areas to Stay in Hvar

It's impossible to recommend just one ‘best' part of Hvar to stay in since the island promises so many opportunities for fun and relaxation, but I can certainly pick a few favorites.

Hvar Town is the obvious place to stay for first-timers and those wanting to make the most of Hvar's legendary nightlife, but you risk missing some of Hvar island's more hidden gems if you only stay in this area. Hvar Town is also where all island-hopping day tours stop.

Hvar's most family-friendly area is Milna, while history buffs and culture vultures will love the infinitely interesting Stari Grad. Both Zavala and Vrboska offer the opportunity to escape the crowds you see in Hvar Town in peak season

Zastražišće and Gdinj are where you'll find the best representation of authentic local Hvar life and culture.

If you're in the market for a beach holiday, head to Jelsa, home to some of Hvar's most stunning coast and the perfect location for sun, sea, and sand. Ultimately, where you decide to stay in Hvar will depend in part on what you plan on doing when you arrive.

To find out where the best place to stay in Hvar for your preferences, read on. There are plenty of luxury Hvar hotels, apartments, and BnBs available on the island, and, thanks to its natural beauty and awe-inspiring landscape, there are even opportunities for camping in Hvar.

1. Where to stay in Hvar for the first time and best nightlife: Hvar Town

Nestled in a gorgeous cove, it's no exaggeration to say Hvar Town is truly one of the most beautiful destinations I've ever seen, with blue waters, a gentle sea breeze, and narrow winding streets full of history and life in the form of buzzy bars and restaurants serving up local cuisine. You'll also find some of the best Hvar hotels here.

While it is worth noting that this charming town naturally attracts tens of thousands of tourists in high season, it still retains a sense of authenticity, especially due to its distinct lack of modern buildings and its striking historical architecture and sites.

It does definitely attract crowds looking for buzzing nightlife, so if that's not your thing, you might prefer to stay in a quieter area of Hvar Island. If you're wondering where to stay in Hvar for nightlife though, the island's main town is the answer.

Best area for:

• Groups of friends

• Nightlife lovers

• First-time tourists

• People with limited time to explore Hvar Island

Things to do & see in Hvar Town

• Stroll around the town center

• Visit Hvar Fort

• Sign up for a walking tour around the old town

• Enjoy Hvar Town's famous nightlife

• See the Franciscan Monastery

Best hotels to stay in Hvar Town

($$$) Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel

This luxury hotel located in Hvar's famous Hvar Town offers well-equipped rooms with queen-size beds as well as panoramic views from the rooftop terrace and a brand new outdoor swimming pool.

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($$) Heritage Hotel Park Hvar

Everything seems to have been thought of in this welcoming 4-star hotel, which is one of the best hotels in Hvar, right from the beautiful decoration of each room to the gorgeous outdoor garden and terrace areas, allowing you to slip into relaxation from the moment you arrive.

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($) Historic Center Hvar Town

This modern apartment complex boasts clean and comfortable units with air conditioning, free WiFi, and fully-equipped kitchens.

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2. Where to Stay in Hvar for Families: Milna

Situated just a few miles from Hvar town is Milna, a more peaceful town on the south coast offering several peaceful beaches and coves. Here you'll find a food market as well as plenty of authentic restaurants serving up traditional regional fare.

If you're interested in water sports or simply hiring a boat to explore the local area, there are opportunities to do so, but it's also a great destination if you simply want to sit back, relax, and enjoy a few days in the sunshine.

If you're wondering where to stay in Hvar with family away from the hustle and bustle, Milna is the answer.

Best area for:

• Solo travelers seeking peace and quiet

• Families

• Foodies

Things to see & do

• Relax at one of Milna's beaches

• Visit the stone houses of Malo Grablje on a walking tour

• Go donkey riding

• Try the seafood at one of Milna's many restaurants

Best hotels to stay in Milna

($$$) Hotel B&B Chamberlain

Just a stone's throw from Milna's beautiful beaches lies this lovely Hvar hotel that boasts luxury features, such as air conditioning and furnished balconies, while still being reasonably affordable for most travelers.

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($$) Apartments Maslina

If you're looking for stylish, clean, and luxurious Hvar accommodation, you'll love these self-catered apartments that are just a short walk away from the beach and boast a sea view.

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($) Apartments Dragica

Located in Milna facing the sea and within walking distance of a stunning beach, this 3-star Hvar accommodation features air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a beautiful garden to relax in.

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3. Where to stay in Hvar for history buffs & culture: Stari Grad (Old Town)

For history lovers, Croatia is a destination with a rich tapestry of historical tales to tell and Stari Grad is definitely the island's go-to place for such tales. This Old Town is often overlooked in favor of Hvar town's nightlife and swanky hotels, but this hidden gem is a must-visit if you're interested in Dalmatian culture.

The town is home to a port and promenade, which offers a great location to take a stroll, while some of the town's winding streets date back as far as 300 BC.

While you're here, be sure to check out the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which still has an Ancient Greek field division system intact.

Best area for:

• History lovers

• Travelers looking for a peaceful getaway

Things to do & see

• Visit the Stari Grad plain

• Stroll along the promenade

• Climb up Glavica Hill

• See St. Stephen's Church

Best hotels to stay in Stari Grad

($$$) B&B Heritage Villa Apolon

This quirky pink building is home to one of the most welcoming hotels in Hvar island, a B&B with air conditioning, well-equipped rooms, and a beautiful outdoor garden and terrace area.

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($$) Hvar Placeshotel

Arguably the best boutique hotel in Hvar, this gorgeous luxury accommodation is set right at the beach promenade and surrounded by pine trees, promising guests gorgeous rooms, a tasty buffet breakfast, and a large outdoor pool.

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($) Apartments Marković

This self-catering accommodation, located just 8 minutes from the nearest beach, is one of the best places to stay in Hvar for beautiful views and outdoor space, with a gorgeous terrace for guests to enjoy during their stay.

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4. Where to Stay in Hvar for Beaches: Jelsa

Located on a bay on the North Coast of the island lies the lovely town of Jelsa, a beautiful hidden gem full of beaches with turquoise sea and one of the many cool places to stay in Hvar.

If you're looking for boutique hotels with a beachfront location so you can spend your days enjoying the sun, sea, secluded coves, and relaxation, there's simply nowhere better to stay on this beautiful island.

Best area for:

• Beach lovers

• Small groups

• Wine connoisseurs

Things to do & see

• Visit the Jelsa wine fair, which typically takes place annually in August

• Enjoy a day at the beach

• People-watch in Jelsa's main square

Best hotels in Jelsa

($$$) Villa Vista Hvar

Offering air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, Villa Vista Hvar is a 4-star apartment with a buffet breakfast, garden, and even a BBQ which is perfect for the summer months.

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($$) B&B Aurora

Situated less than a mile from the popular Fontana Beach and a similar distance from Mina Beach, this stylish accommodation offers private parking, a 24-hour front desk for all your queries, and access to a lush garden.

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($) Guest House Jelsa

Featuring WiFi throughout the property, this pet-friendly guest house is a stylish, clean, and affordable stay for people in search of a beach getaway.

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5. Where to stay in Hvar without the crowds: Vrboska

While Hvar Town is undoubtedly beautiful, it's not exactly the quietest place to stay, with its throngs of tourists and vibrant nightlife.

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle, head to the small village of Vbroska, a quiet, hidden bay on the northern coast of Hvar island. Here, you can expect to find a picturesque harbor, an ancient fortress, and a cutesy canal, the reason why this region is known as ‘Little Venice'.

Best area for:

• Families

• Couples

• Travelers looking to stay off the beaten path

• Senior travelers

Things to do & see

• Stroll along Jelsa's canal

• Enjoy the slow pace of life in Jelsa's streets

• Visit St Mary's Fortress Church

Best hotels to stay in Vrboska

($$$) Labranda Senses Resort

Located in a secluded forest just 20 meters from the Adriatic Sea, this beautiful hotel is perfect for travelers who like a bit of luxury.

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($$) Guest House Marinna

Offering sea views, this contemporary guest house is cozy and welcoming, with an on-site restaurant, free private parking, and free WiFi throughout.

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($) Guest House Lucijo

Situated just 200 meters from a stone-paved beach, this gorgeous guest house promises air-conditioned and affordable accommodation with fully-equipped kitchens and satellite TV.

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6. Where to stay in Hvar for couples & quietness: Zavala

Looking for the best place to stay in Hvar for couples? You'll simply adore Zavala.

This small harbor on Hvar's southern coast has very few residents, so you'll be able to enjoy a peaceful stay here away from the hustle and bustle of some of Hvar's better-known towns.

Its beautiful gravel beaches draw you in, but you'll stay for the authentic local atmosphere and the friendly residents. Oh, and the renowned local wine!

Best area for:

• Foodies

• Wine lovers

• Couples

Things to do & see

• Visit the beaches

• Try some locally-caught fish

• Visit one of the area's popular vineyards

• Go biking on one of the popular trails

Best hotels to stay in Zavala

($$$) Villa Veli Nova

Surrounded by some of Zavala's most famous vineyards, this beautiful accommodation is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful, tranquil stay, including stunning sea views.

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($$) Pansion Marjan

Facing the seafront, this pleasant 3-star accommodation offers air conditioning, tasty breakfast options, a concierge service, and a daily maid service.

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($) House Zaca

Offering well-lit, minimalist rooms, this affordable guest house offers a great location for proximity to beaches as well as local bars and restaurants.

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7. Where to stay in Hvar for local life inland: Zastražišće & Gdinj

If you're a traveler who likes getting off the beaten path and exploring the more authentic side of a destination, head to either of the inland towns Zastražišće or Gdinj.

With fewer tourists but a vibrant local atmosphere, these are the must-visit destinations for those looking to experience Hvar as a local would.

Best area for:

• Small families

• Travelers seeking authenticity

Things to do & see

• Visit St. Nicholas Church

• See the olive tree that's more than 2000 years old

• Take in the scent of the lavender fields

Best hotels to stay in Zastražišće & Gdinj

($$$) Casa M Hvar

This luxurious accommodation has a private pool, free parking, WiFi throughout, and a cozy outdoor fireplace for those cooler nights.

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($$) Robinson Medvidna Hvar Apartments

Featuring free WiFi and private parking, this stylish Hvar accommodation promises a good night's sleep and proximity to the sea.

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($) Hotel Timun

With a 24-hour front desk and guest laundry, Hotel Timun offers a comfortable stay in a stylish, contemporary room, with an on-site restaurant serving up local cuisine.

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Where to stay in Hvar – Frequently Asked Questions

✔️ Is staying on Hvar Island worth it?

There's something for nearly every type of traveler on Hvar Island, so it's well worth a visit. It's also a great jumping-off point to visit other parts of Croatia, such as Split. Hvar does offer a more laid-back vacation than other destinations, and there's less sightseeing than somewhere like Rome or Paris, but with unrivaled nightlife and beautiful sights to visit all over the island, you certainly won't be bored.

📆 How many days should I spend on Hvar Island?

With so many different areas to explore on the island, look at visiting for at least three days so you can make the most of your trip. A day trip or simple overnight stay is definitely possible if you're short on time and just want to get a taste of the island.

⭐ What’s the main area in Hvar? Is there an Old Town?

The main area on the island of Hvar is Hvar Town, which is an old town with a rich history, cobbled streets, plenty of nightlife, and lots to do. While this is the area that attracts the most tourists every year, it's certainly not the only part of the island worth visiting.

🚂 Do you need a car or can you walk around Hvar?

If you're just visiting Hvar Town or one of the other towns on this popular island, you'll be able to walk around the area on foot. If you're traveling from town to town, however, you'll benefit from hiring a rental car for the duration of your trip.

🏞️ Is Hvar Town or Stari Grad better?

Both of the towns are well worth visiting, but Hvar Town is better for nightlife and has a generally more buzzing atmosphere, while Stari Grad is peaceful and perfect for history buffs wanting to learn about the area.

❓Should I stay in Split or Hvar?

Both popular Croatian destinations should be on your travel bucket list, and they're within easy visiting distance of each other, so you can see both in a relatively short period.

Split is arguably a better place for history buffs and culture vultures, with plenty of old buildings and artifacts to explore. While staying in Split is beautiful, it's not quite as postcard-perfect as Hvar, which is known for its secluded beaches and nightlife. Hvar offers a more laid-back beach vacation experience, while Split offers a slightly more city break vibe.

Where to stay in Hvar – Final Words

Where you stay in Hvar exactly will depend on your preferences, but one thing's for sure, wherever you choose to stay on this awe-inspiring island, you're guaranteed a good time.

From the stunning beaches of Jelsa to the historical charm of Hvar Town, this breathtaking island is full of amazing neighborhoods and accommodations alike.