Hvar-ly Ever After: Exploring one of Croatia's Magical Islands

Are you dreaming of a vacation spot that combines natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant nightlife? Probably not, because you have kids but let me take a quick minute to introduce Hvar to you.

Hvar, Croatia, a stunning island located in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its crystal clear waters, lush greenery, and charming old town, Hvar has become a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Hike through scenic trails, soaking up the sun on pebbled beaches, exploring ancient ruins, or complaining about the noise of the clubs next door, Hvar has something to offer for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Hvar so special and provide some tips for planning your own trip to this enchanting island.

Hvar, Croatia is known as a chic and happening party town, but as parents of two young children, we were not sure if visiting Hvar with kids was a good idea. We were staying in the nearby town of Jelsa, and decided to Hvar a go at a day trip (see what I did there?)

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How to get to Hvar

So, you’re planning a trip to Hvar Island, and you’re wondering how to get there from Split, the closest international airport.

No worries, it’s a common route, and we’ve got you covered!

First, you’ll need to catch the airport shuttle bus into Split, which will drop you off at the bus station/ferry port.

To get from Split airport to the city centre, where the ferry port is located, you have the option to take the public bus No. 37 which leaves from Split airport from Monday to Sundays between 04:00 and 23:45, with a one-way ticket costing €2.23.

From there, you can purchase your ferry tickets at the offices of the two main ferry services, Krilo and Jadrolinija, or book them online. Booking online is quick and easy, and saves time if you’re traveling from one island to another.

However, if you’re flying into Split, it may be worth buying your tickets from the office in case your flight is delayed. In peak season, the ferries run regularly, so you can grab a coffee whilst you wait for the next one.

The ferry journey takes around an hour, and the cost is approximately £13 per person. Children under 3 travel for free. Prices are accurate at the time of writing (March 2023).

Click here for the ferry timetables and prices
Click here to book online with either Krilo and Jadrolinija

Here are five fun things to do in Hvar with kids:

The Hvar Fortress The Hvar Fortress is a must-visit attraction in Hvar, and it’s a great place to take kids. It requires walking up a series of steps from Old Town, but the effort is worth it. Unfortunately we decided that the entrance price would blow our daily budget so opted to explore the surrounding grounds. Our kids loved exploring and playing with the cannons, and the views of Hvar Town and the harbour are breathtaking.

Hvar Town is a picturesque and charming place to explore with kids. There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants, and the streets are pedestrian-friendly. Our kids enjoyed running around and playing in the town square. There is an amazing ice cream shop by the harbour with mile long queues but well worth it if you have the patience.

Take a walk along the promenade and check out a few of the local beaches. The water is beautifully clear but in September, absolutely freezing, not that it stopped our trawl kids from jumping in.

Hvar’s Oceanfront Promenade Hvar’s Oceanfront Promenade is a scenic and relaxing place to take a stroll with kids. The promenade offers beautiful views of the sea, and there are plenty of benches to rest and take in the scenery. Our kids enjoyed playing on the beach and watching the boats go by.

Hvar’s old town is a true gem. It’s like stepping into a time machine and going back a few centuries. The narrow streets are made of smooth, white stones that have been polished by thousands of feet over the years. The buildings are a mix of styles, from elegant Venetian palaces to charming stone houses with red-tiled roofs. As you wander through the maze of streets, you’ll come across hidden courtyards, quiet churches, and quaint little shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to lavender oil. It’s the perfect place to get lost for a few hours and soak up the laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere.

What do we wish we had known before our trip to Hvar?

Are you planning on taking a dip in the beautiful waters of Croatia? Don’t forget to pack your water shoes! Yes, that’s right, but before you cringe at the thought, let us explain why they are a must-have item for any beach day in Croatia.

Firstly, the beaches in Croatia are not your typical sandy paradise. Instead, you’ll find pebbly shores and rocky cliffs that require a bit of extra foot protection. Trust us, the last thing you want is to step on a sharp rock or sea urchin and have your relaxing day turn into a painful one.

Secondly, the water shoes will help you get a better grip on slippery rocks while you’re exploring the beautiful coastline. Plus, they will also make you look like a pro swimmer, or at the very least, a practical beachgoer.

You will have a hard time resisting the temptation to jump into the waters of Croatia, so, embrace the water shoes and pack them in your beach bag

Hvar is not just a party town; it is also a great place to visit with kids. There are plenty of fun and family-friendly activities to do, and the scenery is stunning. So, if you’re planning a family vacation to Croatia, be sure to include Hvar on your itinerary!