Hvar Old Town occupies a sheltered harbor on the southern coast of Hvar Island, one of the sunniest spots in all of Croatia, boasting an average of 2,724 hours of sunshine per year. The town’s history stretches back over two millennia, and its compact historic center is a harmonious blend of Venetian Renaissance architecture, marble-paved streets, and a palm-lined waterfront promenade where luxury yachts bob alongside traditional wooden fishing boats. The central St. Stephen’s Square, one of the largest piazzas in Dalmatia, is anchored by a 16th-century cathedral whose bell tower rises above the terracotta rooftops, while the surrounding lanes hide wine bars, lavender shops, and artisan studios.

Above the town, the Spanish Fortress of Fortica offers panoramic views that sweep across the harbor, the Pakleni Islands scattered offshore like green stepping stones, and the open Adriatic beyond. The climb up is steep but rewarded by one of the most spectacular vistas on the Croatian coast. Hvar has earned a reputation as a glamorous party destination, but beyond the waterfront cocktail bars, the island reveals quieter pleasures: fields of wild lavender that perfume the interior in June, abandoned stone villages reclaimed by nature, and secluded swimming coves accessible by boat or hiking trail on the Pakleni archipelago.

Pro tip: Rent a small boat for the day and explore the Pakleni Islands at your own pace. Palmizana on St. Clement Island has an excellent restaurant set among a botanical garden, and you can find empty pebble beaches on the smaller islands just a short putt away. No boating license is required in Croatia for boats under a certain engine power.