Where is hvar croatia

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Hvar is an island located in the Adriatic Sea off the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles) southwest of Split. It is part of Split-Dalmatia County and has a population of around 11,000 residents, with the main town of Hvar being a UNESCO-protected site dating back to the 13th century.

Key Facts

Hvar is approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles) southwest of Split, Croatia
The island has a population of around 11,000 residents as of 2021
Hvar Town's historic center has been under UNESCO protection since 2008
The island receives over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, one of the highest in Europe
Hvar has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with Greek colonization beginning around 385 BC

Overview

Hvar is a stunning Croatian island situated in the Adriatic Sea, forming part of the Central Dalmatian archipelago. Located approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles) southwest of Split, it is the fourth largest island in Croatia with a total area of 297.4 square kilometers. The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of Neolithic settlements dating back over 6,000 years. Its strategic position along important maritime routes has made it a coveted territory throughout history.

The island's recorded history begins with Greek colonization around 385 BC when settlers from the island of Paros established the settlement of Pharos (modern-day Stari Grad). This makes Stari Grad one of the oldest towns in Europe. Over centuries, Hvar came under Roman, Venetian, Austrian, and Yugoslav rule before becoming part of modern Croatia. Today, Hvar is renowned for its natural beauty, historic architecture, and vibrant tourism industry that attracts visitors from around the world.

How It Works

Understanding Hvar's geography, accessibility, and infrastructure helps visitors plan their trip effectively.

Geographical Location: Hvar is positioned at coordinates 43°08′N 16°44′E in the Adriatic Sea, part of Split-Dalmatia County. The island measures approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles) in length, with a width ranging from 4 to 10.5 kilometers. Its highest point is Sveti Nikola peak at 628 meters (2,060 feet) above sea level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago.
Transportation Access: The island is accessible primarily by ferry from Split, with multiple daily crossings operated by Jadrolinija and other companies. The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours depending on the vessel type. Hvar also has catamaran connections to Dubrovnik, Korčula, and other Dalmatian islands, with the main ports being Hvar Town and Stari Grad. During peak season, additional fast ferries reduce travel time to just 50 minutes from Split.
Climate and Weather: Hvar enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, dry summers. The island receives over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, making it one of the sunniest spots in Europe. Average summer temperatures range from 24-30°C (75-86°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F). This favorable climate supports the island's famous lavender fields, olive groves, and vineyards.
Administrative Structure: The island is divided into four municipalities: Hvar (population approximately 4,100), Stari Grad (2,800), Jelsa (3,600), and Sućuraj (500). Hvar Town serves as the administrative and cultural center, while Stari Grad is the oldest settlement. Each municipality maintains its own distinct character, from the bustling nightlife of Hvar Town to the tranquil agricultural landscapes of Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Hvar Town	Stari Grad
Historical Significance	13th century Venetian architecture, UNESCO-protected historic center since 2008	Founded 384 BC by Greeks, UNESCO World Heritage Stari Grad Plain agricultural landscape
Tourism Focus	Luxury tourism, nightlife, yachting with over 100 restaurants and bars	Cultural tourism, quiet family vacations, agricultural tourism with wine and olive oil production
Population Density	Approximately 4,100 residents with high seasonal variation	Approximately 2,800 residents with more stable year-round population
Accommodation Options	5-star hotels, luxury villas, boutique hotels (average €150-€300/night peak season)	Family-run guesthouses, apartments, agritourism (average €80-€150/night peak season)
Transportation Hub	Main ferry and catamaran port with connections to Split, Dubrovnik, and Italy	Secondary port with car ferry connections to Split and neighboring islands

Why It Matters

Economic Impact: Tourism is the primary economic driver, contributing over 80% of the island's GDP. During peak season, Hvar welcomes up to 20,000 daily visitors, supporting approximately 3,000 tourism-related jobs. The island's reputation as a luxury destination attracts high-spending tourists, with yachting tourism alone generating millions in revenue annually.
Cultural Preservation: Hvar maintains significant cultural heritage, including the 13th-century Hvar Cathedral, the 17th-century Arsenal building, and Europe's oldest public theater established in 1612. The island hosts traditional events like the Hvar Summer Festival and the Lavender Festival, preserving Dalmatian customs and attracting cultural tourists year-round.
Environmental Significance: The island's diverse ecosystems include Mediterranean maquis, pine forests, and marine protected areas. Hvar's commitment to sustainable tourism includes restrictions on new construction in historic areas and initiatives to protect marine life. The island's agricultural traditions, particularly lavender cultivation and wine production, maintain traditional landscapes while supporting local economies.

Looking forward, Hvar faces the challenge of balancing tourism development with environmental and cultural preservation. The island's authorities are implementing sustainable tourism strategies to manage visitor numbers, protect natural resources, and maintain quality of life for residents. As climate change affects Mediterranean regions, Hvar's adaptation measures will serve as a model for other island destinations. With careful planning, Hvar can continue to thrive as both a premier tourist destination and a preserved historical treasure for generations to come.