Where is hvar

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Hvar is an island in the Adriatic Sea, located off the Dalmatian coast of Croatia. It is part of Split-Dalmatia County and lies approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles) southwest of Split, with a population of around 11,000 residents as of 2021. The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times and gained prominence under Venetian rule from the 13th to 18th centuries.

Key Facts

Hvar is located in the Adriatic Sea, Croatia, about 68 km (42 miles) southwest of Split
The island has an area of 299.66 square kilometers (115.70 square miles)
Population was approximately 11,000 as of the 2021 census
Hvar Town was founded in 385 BC by Ancient Greek colonists as Pharos
The island receives over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, one of the highest in Europe

Overview

Hvar is a Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, part of the Central Dalmatian archipelago. It lies off the Dalmatian coast, southwest of the city of Split in Split-Dalmatia County. The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of Neolithic settlements dating back to 3500-2500 BC. Its strategic location made it a valuable trading post throughout history.

Ancient Greek colonists from the island of Paros founded the settlement of Pharos (modern-day Stari Grad) in 385 BC, making it one of the oldest towns in Europe. The island came under Roman control in 219 BC and later became part of the Byzantine Empire. From the 13th to 18th centuries, Hvar was predominantly under Venetian rule, which significantly influenced its architecture and culture. Today, it is renowned as a premier tourist destination.

How It Works

Hvar functions as both a residential community and major tourist destination, with infrastructure supporting both year-round living and seasonal tourism.

Geographical Structure: Hvar has an elongated shape stretching approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles) in length, with a maximum width of 10.5 kilometers (6.5 miles). The island's total area is 299.66 square kilometers (115.70 square miles), making it the fourth largest Croatian island. Its highest point is Sveti Nikola at 628 meters (2,060 feet) above sea level.
Administrative Division: The island is divided into four municipalities: Hvar (with approximately 4,100 residents), Stari Grad (2,800 residents), Jelsa (3,600 residents), and Sućuraj (400 residents). Hvar Town serves as the administrative center and main port, handling ferry connections to Split, Drvenik, and neighboring islands.
Economic Foundation: Tourism dominates the economy, with over 1 million overnight stays recorded annually in pre-pandemic years. The island has more than 20,000 tourist beds across hotels, apartments, and private accommodations. Agriculture remains important, particularly lavender cultivation (producing about 7 tons annually) and wine production from indigenous grape varieties like Plavac Mali.
Transportation Network: Hvar is connected by regular catamaran services (45-90 minute trips to Split) and car ferries (2-2.5 hour crossings). The island has approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) of roads, with the main road running along its length. There are no airports on Hvar, but the nearest is in Split, 70 kilometers (43 miles) away by sea.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Hvar Island	Other Dalmatian Islands
Annual Sunshine Hours	2,800+ hours	Korčula: 2,700 hours; Brač: 2,600 hours
Tourist Overnight Stays (2019)	1.2 million	Brač: 1.1 million; Korčula: 900,000
Oldest Settlement	Stari Grad (founded 385 BC)	Korčula Town (Greek colony 6th century BC)
Lavender Production	7 tons annually	Limited production on other islands
Highest Point	Sveti Nikola (628 m/2,060 ft)	Brač: Vidova Gora (778 m/2,552 ft)

Why It Matters

Tourism Impact: Tourism contributes approximately 80% of Hvar's GDP, employing about 70% of the working population during peak season. The industry generates over €150 million annually, supporting local businesses and infrastructure development. This economic model has transformed Hvar from a primarily agricultural community to a luxury destination.
Cultural Preservation: Hvar maintains significant historical sites including Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008 encompassing 6 square kilometers of agricultural landscape. The island hosts Europe's oldest public theater, built in 1612, and numerous Venetian-era fortifications. These cultural assets attract heritage tourists alongside beach visitors.
Environmental Significance: The island's Mediterranean climate supports unique biodiversity with over 1,200 plant species, including 23 endemic varieties. Hvar's clear waters contain protected marine areas, and sustainable tourism initiatives aim to balance development with conservation. The island serves as a model for managing tourism pressure in fragile ecosystems.

Looking forward, Hvar faces the challenge of sustainable development as climate change and overtourism threaten its natural and cultural resources. The island is implementing measures like limiting daily visitor numbers during peak season and promoting off-season tourism. With careful management, Hvar can preserve its unique character while continuing to thrive as one of Europe's most desirable destinations, setting standards for island tourism worldwide.