Hvar

Hvar is a lively island with an active nightlife, favoured by the “rich and famous.” But there is more to Hvar on a Croatian vacation than that. It is the 4th largest Croatian island with a high ratio of sunshine. The colourful port is usually filled with large sailboats and the hillsides are covered with pine forests, vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields. Hvar is often called “The Island of Lavender.” In fact, the main export is lavender oil.

Hvar Town is surrounded by 13th Century walls inside of which are several beautiful Gothic palaces and pedestrian streets. Towering over the town is a medieval castle illuminated at night. You can enjoy the livelier aspects of Hvar certainly, but you can also explore the sights as well as swim at one of the numerous beaches on a Croatia vacation package. Hvar is also one of the two most famous winemaking regions in Croatia, well-known for both red and white wines. As a destination, Hvar has a reputation for being Croatia’s party town. You can explore the island with its pine forests, vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards, and lavender fields. In Hvar Town, the medieval streets and buildings of this walled old town can be easily explored on foot. St. Stephan's Cathedral is situated in the main square where you can also find the imposing 16th Century Arsenal, once used by the Venetian military. It now houses a modern art gallery. Up on a hill overlooking Hvar Town is the 16th  Century Fortica, a Spanish Fortress. The climb to the top is well worth it for panoramic views of not only Hvar but also nearby islands. Stari Grad on Hvar is the oldest town in Croatia. The Biankini Palace here is home to the town museum where you can see Greek coins, ceramics, and stonework.