3 days in Hvar with town walks, islands and Stari Grad
Use three days to see both sides of the island's pace: Hvar's harbor and hillside lanes, the short boat crossings to the Pakleni islands, and the quieter streets around Stari Grad. This route puts the longer land outing between two days based near the water. Check the Stari Grad bus connections first, then move the island outing if the weather makes another day better for boats.
At a glance
- Where to stay
- Dolac and the bus station makes a practical base for this route, with the main square nearby and easier access to your Stari Grad departure. Ask about luggage access and the walk from the harbor.
- Book ahead
- Catamaran or car ferry from Split, Dinner at the better restaurants, Peka, if you want it
- Other lengths
- 2 days 4 days
Day 1: Groda in the morning, the shore after lunch
- Morning
- Walk through the main square before climbing the lanes of Groda toward Spanjola fortress. Give the climb its own morning slot so you can pause on the steps and spend time looking across the harbor.
- Afternoon
- Descend for lunch and check whether the old theater is open. Afterwards, walk west along the water toward Majerovica, choosing a nearby swimming spot rather than traveling across the island on your first day.
- Evening
- Return along the same waterfront, allowing time to change before dinner. Spend the later evening in the lanes behind the square, where a short loop lets you explore without another uphill commitment.
- Dinner
- Try Konoba Menego and ask about the day's dishes. Order a local vegetable dish or a fish dish if available.
Day 2: Stari Grad streets and a short plain walk
- Morning
- Take a checked bus connection or arrange a car journey to Stari Grad. Start beside the harbor, then walk inland through the stone lanes to Tvrdalj. Check the official opening information before planning an interior visit.
- Afternoon
- After lunch, choose a short out-and-back walk on the Stari Grad Plain. Turn around while you still have time for the return connection, rather than committing to an unfamiliar loop between the field walls.
- Evening
- Return to Hvar town and keep the evening close to your accommodation. If you still want a walk, follow the harbor edge instead of adding another sightseeing stop after the bus journey.
- Dinner
- Choose a konoba in Stari Grad for lunch and order grilled fish or vegetables. Back in Hvar, keep dinner simple with pasta.
Day 3: Pakleni swimming and the monastery waterfront
- Morning
- Take a water taxi to one Pakleni landing after confirming the return arrangement. Choose your cove according to walking access and sea conditions, and keep enough water for the whole outing.
- Afternoon
- Return with time to visit the Franciscan monastery if its museum is open. This gives the afternoon a clear stopping point and avoids depending on a late boat for a timed interior visit.
- Evening
- Walk a little farther along the east waterfront, then head back to the harbor for dinner. Check your onward sailing and pack before going out if you leave the following morning.
- Dinner
- Order grilled squid or a vegetable risotto at a waterfront restaurant, depending on the menu. Reserve a table if you want a particular dinner time.
Tips for 3 days in Hvar
- Check both Stari Grad bus journeys before leaving Hvar, since a suitable outward departure does not guarantee a convenient return.
- Keep your plain walk short unless you have a map, adequate water and a clear transport plan.
- If you want peka after the Stari Grad day, arrange it beforehand and leave room for a slow dinner.
3 days in Hvar with town walks, islands and Stari Grad
What does the third day add?
It adds Stari Grad and a manageable walk on its agricultural plain. You can see a different harbor town without giving up either the fortress morning or the Pakleni swimming outing.
Do I need to hire a car for Stari Grad?
A car is optional if the buses suit your plans. Check the current outward and return services before leaving, and arrange another option if the gaps would make the day impractical.
Can I combine Stari Grad with Jelsa?
You can, but this plan leaves the afternoon for the plain. Adding Jelsa means reducing that walk and checking another transport connection or using a car.
When should I arrange peka?
Arrange it a day ahead and confirm the meal time with the restaurant. The slow preparation makes it a poor choice for an unplanned stop immediately before a bus or boat.