How to Spend 48 Hours on Hvar: A Locally Loved Itinerary

Hvar has a reputation. Sun-soaked, glamourous, legendary nightlife, and iconic yachts dotting the harbour. But if you only skim the surface, you miss the parts that make this island truly special.

With two full days, you can experience both sides of Hvar. Yes, the lively waterfront and famous beach bars, but also the quiet inland roads, the deep history, and those secret coves that only the locals know.

First Things First: How To Get Around

To really explore Hvar, we recommend renting a car, scooter, or quad. The two most popular destinations, Hvar Town and Stari Grad, are on opposite sides of the island, so you’ll want travel to be convenient. If you want to add some serious style points to your island adventure, try cruising in a vintage VW Beetle with the top down. We did it—and it’s something we’ll never forget. Here’s where we booked ours: link.

Hiring a local guide is also a game-changer. The island is full of stories. Illyrian tribes, Venetian palaces, lavender fields, and abandoned villages. A local can bring them to life in a way no guidebook ever could. Not sure who to book? Ask in our Facebook Group where past travellers love to shout out their favourite guides.

What Not To Miss

It wouldn’t be a trip to Hvar without a few classics—Hvar Town, the Spanish Fortress, Und Pakleni Islands are beloved for a reason. But don’t stop there.

Some of the best moments happen off the beaten path:

• The sleepy inland villages where time slows down

• The cliffside roads above Stari Grad Bay, with views over to Brač Island

• Tiny coves you can only reach by boat, where the the sea meets the shade of the pine trees

Speaking of boats…

Why You MUST Experience The Sea

Hvar is a sailing paradise. Some of the best spots—like Red Rocks, Carpe Diem Beach, Und Ždrilca Bay—are only reachable by sea. Booking a private boat trip is hands down the best way to experience them.

Exploring by private tour lets you skip the crowds and follow your own rhythm. Want to stop for a swim in a cove with no one else in sight? Done. Fancy a seafood lunch at a seaside konoba where the chef greets you at the dock? Easy.

It’s not just a scenic bonus. Its an essential part of the Hvar experience. 

Anchor Croatia can help you plan a custom boat day tailored to your group. Whether you’re looking for something relaxed and local or a day full of island hopping and iconic views, we’ve got you covered.

Your 48-Hour Itinerary

Day 1: Sea Views & STONE Streets

Morning & Afternoon

Start strong with a private boat tour through the Hvar archipelago. Swim in hidden coves, cruise past Red Rocks, snorkel in the Blue Lagoon, and stop at the Pakleni Islands for lunch.

Evening

Ask your skipper to drop you in Milna, a peaceful harbour village just 10 minutes from Hvar Town. Book a table at Moli Onte, one of our favourite spots for dinner. Sit on the terrace, order the daily catch, and watch the boats sway in the bay.

After dinner, stroll the stone alleys of Milna before heading into Hvar Town for the evening. Wander through the stone streets lit up by the glowing sunset, grab a drink with a view, and if you’re up for it, check out live jazz at Central Park Club.

Day 2: CULTURE AND COUNTRYSIDE

Morgen

Kick off the day with breakfast and a coffee. Try Kava37 for your specialty caffeine fix or Fig for a breakfast burrito that lives up to the hype.

Mid-Morning to Afternoon

Time for your guided island tour. You can choose your style. History buff, lavender lover, or gastronomy enthusiast. A good guide will tailor the day to your interests and likely include stops like:

• The Spanish Fortress, with views stretching across the Pakleni Islands

• Inland vineyards and olive groves

• A good lunch at a restaurant well-loved by locals

• A scenic drive to Stari Grad, the island’s oldest settlement

In Stari Grad, walk along the old stone promenade, explore narrow lanes lined with art studios and handmade souvenir shops, and stop by historic sites like:

• Petar Hektorović’s Tvrdalj, a poet’s 16th-century stone palace with a fishpond at its centre.

• Dominican Monastery, home to rare manuscripts and a peaceful cloister.

Abendessen

End your day with dinner at Kod Barba Luke—a local gem tucked into a historic family house built in the 1600s. The terrace has views of the harbour, the menu features fresh Adriatic dishes, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Final Tips Before You Go

• Avoid peak heat and crowds by starting your day early, especially in summer.

• Book ahead for dinners and boat trips in July and August.

• Don’t overpack your schedule—Hvar rewards those who slow down.

• Don’t expect the crazy party island that Hvar once was. In 2024 Hvar introduced strict late night noise restrictions. Respect the local life by having fun responsibly. 

Let us help you plan

Need help arranging a boat trip, accommodation, or a local guide? Our team at Anchor Croatia has firsthand experience and island connections that can make your trip seamless. Get in touch at sail@anchorcroatia.com, or join our Facebook-Gruppe for real-time advice from travellers who’ve been there.

Hvar is one of Croatia’s most popular destinations, known world wide for its stunning beaches, old town and gastronomy scene for a reason. And if you do it right, 48 hours is more than enough to fall in love.