3 Days in Hvar, Croatia: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Hvar in Croatia has gained a reputation as a playground for the rich and stylish. Often compared to its louder and less elegant distant cousin, Ibiza, Hvar also boasts a glamour and vibrant summer scene. The island mainly attracts luxury travellers, yacht owners, and celebrities, albeit it being affordable compared to Côte d’Azur or Monaco. If you’re into crystal-clear waters, chic beach clubs, and gorgeous waterfront restaurants, then this is the perfect place for you. Personally, it’s my own version of heaven on earth.

Hvar nails that balance between Mediterranean charm and European-style party scene with its upscale, aspirational vibe that makes it one of the best destinations out there if you’re after beauty and a bit of buzz. I spent five days on the island, but honestly, I feel three days is the sweet spot. Just enough to soak up Hvar’s beauty, its beaches, and the buzzing energy without feeling rushed. You can of course extend this to get more of a relaxed vacation like I did.

Here’s how to spend three days of your next summer on the island:

Day 1: Hvar Town

Morning:

Coffee and pastry time at any chosen café in Pjaca Square. Literally anywhere. The square is filled with spots that serve coffee and other drinks you might prefer. It’s perfect for people-watching and soaking in the Venetian architecture. This sets the perfect tone for the start of your holiday.

I would then spend some time walking through the historic streets, peeking into boutiques and grabbing some souvenirs all the while snapping some photos of the charming pastel buildings dotted around the town.

Afternoon:

Hike up to Fortica Fortress for the most insane panoramic views over Hvar Town and the Adriatic. It’s a short, scenic climb and the perfect spot for Instagram-worthy shots. When I did this, I went during golden hour. The view was immaculate, the photos did not do it any justice.

For lunch, head over to Luviji Rooftop Restaurant which is a local favourite. It’s a perfect lunch spot that’s perched above Hvar’s terracotta rooftops. A personal recommendation would be their cuttlefish risotto and Pašticada, a melt-in-your-mouth beef dish with gnocchi.

Evening:

If you’re staying at a hotel with a pool like I did at Amfora, this is the perfect time to go for a quick dip. Then, grab your best outfit and enjoy roof top drinks at The Top Bar. I had their mojito and Aperol spritz and they were so, so good. Cocktails in hand, sunset on the horizon, and Hvar Town twinkling below? Honestly, I didn’t want the night to end.

Just right underneath the rooftop bar, is a restaurant called Val Marina where I personally recommend having your first Dalmatian dinner. Oh. My. God. Personally, this was my favourite restaurant amongst all I’ve tried. The surf n’ turf was my go-to because I couldn’t not have the best of both worlds in Croatia. Food was immaculate, service was impeccable (Look for Marco!), and the harbour views were mental.

Day 2: Beach and Island Vibes

Morning:

Your trip to Hvar isn’t complete until you’ve seen its waters. Take a taxi boat (or rent a private yacht if you’re willing to splurge) to Pakleni Islands, a short ride from Hvar Town. Here, you can explore coves like Palmizana for crystal-clear water and the Blue Cave located in the island of Biševo, famous for its magical blue glowing light.

Afternoon:

Now, for lunch, trust me when I say you’re going to want to have it at Bacchus Palmizana on Palmizana. It’s nestled in a tranquil olive grove on the scenic St. Clement Island. Order the catch of the day or the steak fillet in green sauce whilst oggling at the breathtaking views of the marina.

Head back to your boat and sail to Red Rocks. They are vertically separated red limestone rocks dropping into the sea, with a cave, pebble beach, and cliff jumping spot. I spent a lot of my time here just swimming, to be honest.

Evening:

Back in Hvar Town, you are presumably knackered. I’m not going to lie, by the time I made it back to my hotel, a power nap was calling my name. After a much need snooze fest, it’s time for dinner. Walk over to Black Pepper, a cosy-chic restaurant that serves artsy Mediterranean dishes. Try their truffle gnocchi or grilled octopus.

Finally, it’s time for some night life. Start the night with drinks at Hula Hula Beach Bar, a waterfront hangout bar. Then, if you’re feeling fancy, hop over to Carpe Diem Beach Club where there are DJs playing all night.

Day 3: Culture and History

Morning:

On your last day, I urge you to take it a little slower. Make your way to Stari Grad, one of Europe’s oldest towns. This is the same town where Jeff Bezos and his wife were spotted dining at the well-known restaurant Kod barba Luke! They definitely spent their Summer 2025 right by choosing Hvar as their destination.

Treat yourself to some wine tasting and pop over to Lacman Family Winery where you can sip on wine whilst taking in a phenomenal view. It’s a unique winery because it specialises in natural wine which I’ve never had before.

Afternoon:

If you’re craving an authentic experience, Terra Arhaica in Vrisnik is your time machine. It’s an immersive experience set in a 150-year-old Dalmatian home where you’ll be greeted by the hosts in period attire. You’ll witness how the Croatians lived back then and see just how rich the island’s heritage is. The highlight of my tour here was grinding wheat in an old mill but that’s just me! Luckily, they also serve traditional food that they would have back then like cheese, local prosciutto, marinated anchovies, zucchinis, and freshly baked bread drizzled with olive oil. That was lunch sorted for me.

Before the afternoon ends, do a quick stop to Mikletovi, a honey tasting and lavender shop run by the loveliest local family.

Evening:

Finally, return to Hvar Town for your farewell dinner. Dalmatino is where I would have my last Dalmatian meal. It’s basically a Hvar institution. It’s centrally located and easy to pop in for the most indulgent carpaccio followed by their fillet mignon with black truffles.

Take a final sunset stroll along the harbour and get a good night sleep, ready for your journey back home.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

• The best time to go is May to early September for sunny weather.
• Walking in Hvar Town is easy but for other parts of the island, rent a scooter or use taxis.
• Small establishments and souvenir shops/markets only accept cash.

Rachel

Rachel is an intrepid world traveller, lifestyle connoisseuse, and the resident beauty advisor at Girls Who Travel. A true ocean lover with a soft spot for flowers, films, and storytelling, she also has a growing collection of medium-sized tattoos. When she’s not immersed in her next adventure, Rachel shares stories from her travels along with practical tips and insights to help other women make the most of their journeys.