Plan a CruiseHvar Cruise Port Guide
Cruise ships tender ashore directly into the heart of Hvar Town. This picturesque island is rapidly gaining popularity among an international crowd, known for its pleasant Mediterranean climate and rich natural beauty. Hvar is characterized by its abundant vegetation, including palms, aloes, pine trees, laurel, rosemary, and lavender, as well as numerous secluded coves. It's an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine, historical charm, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Getting Around from the Port
Upon tendering, you will disembark right into the center of Hvar Town. The town is best explored on foot, as most streets are pedestrian-only. Key attractions are within easy walking distance. A scenic seaside promenade, featuring small rocky beaches and a selection of tasteful bars and cafes, stretches from either end of the harbor, perfect for a leisurely stroll and people-watching.
Attractions and Activities
With 8-10 hours in port, you can comfortably explore Hvar Town and consider a short excursion.
- Explore Hvar Town (On Foot): The tender will drop you directly into the town center. Spend time wandering through the historic streets, marveling at the seven-century-old walls and towering fortifications. Visit the City Loggia, St. Stephen's Cathedral with its Renaissance bell tower (situated on the Piazza, considered one of Dalmatia's most beautiful), the historic Arsenal, the Town's Theatre (dating back to 1612), and the Franciscan Monastery.
- Ferry to Pakleni Islands: For more activity and a change of scenery, take a short ferry ride to the nearby Pakleni Islands. These islands are famous for their beautiful bays and are particularly known for nude sunbathing spots. Ferries depart regularly from Hvar's main harbor.
- Day Trip to Stari Grad: Consider a taxi or local bus for a trip to Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe. Here, you can visit Tvrdalj, the fortified palace of local aristocrat and writer Petar Hektorović, complete with a fishpond. Other historical sites include an early Christian baptistry beside the 12th-century medieval church of St. John, remains of a "villa rustica," the Renaissance church of St. Rok (1569), and the Dominican monastery (founded in 1482). Note: Specific travel times and costs are not provided in the reference, but local transport options are available.
- Visit Vrboska: Another option for a short excursion is the charming village of Vrboska, sometimes called "Little Venice." Explore its Renaissance and Baroque buildings, picturesque small bridges, and the fortified Church of St. Mary. Note: Specific travel times and costs are not provided in the reference.
Dining & Shopping
Along the harbor, you'll find a selection of tasteful bars and cafes perfect for relaxing and people-watching. Hvar is well-known for its unique local sweets. Be sure to try Hvar cakes, especially the traditional pepper cakes from Stari Grad, which historically included saffron, honey, and coriander. Other local specialties include "kroštule," "škanjate," "fritule," and "cvit" (a dry cake flavored with anise).
Shops in tourist areas generally operate seven days a week. Most stores and department stores are open from 8 AM to 8 PM without breaks. Banks and post offices typically open from 7 AM to 7 PM, with post offices extending hours until 9 PM during the tourist season, including Saturdays.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, and ATMs are available throughout Hvar Town.