I think it’s safe to say that if you’re traveling through Croatia and have already ticked off the best things to do in Dubrovnik, then adding a 2–3 day trip to Hvar needs to be next on the list.
This beautiful Croatian island is known for its lively Old Town, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful harbor towns. In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay, whether you’re here to party, explore the history, or unwind and relax by the sea.
My top hotel picks are the Maslina Resort for its waterfront location and the White Rabbit Hostel for its low-budget dorms and delicious breakfast!
The Best Areas to Stay In Hvar (Neighborhood Guide)
Below are the four recommended areas to base your stay in Hvar.
- Hvar Old Town - If you want to stay somewhere with fantastic restaurants and great nightlife, Hvar Old Town is the best place!
- Stari Grad - If you're a history buff, then staying at Stari Grad, the oldest town in Hvar is a must!
- Vrboska - Is relaxation your top priority? Then Vrboska is the best place to stay. Surrounded by hills, forests, and wonderful beaches, it doesn't get more relaxing than Vrboska.
- Jelsa - If you're a nature lover, then Jelsa is the best place for you to stay as it's home to an array of hiking trails and jaw-dropping beaches.
Hvar Old Town: Best Place For Nightlife and Restaurants
If you're visiting Hvar for the nightlife and amazing restaurants, then Hvar Old Town is the best place for you. From 5-star resorts to budget hostels, The Old Town has some of the best options for accommodation in Hvar.
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Hotel Moeesy | $$$$$ |
 | Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel | $$$ |
 | White Rabbit Hostel | $$ |
1. Hotel Moeesy
- Area: Old Town
- Best for: Luxury travelers wanting beach access, pools, and a central location
This 5-star hotel has quickly become one of the most beautiful places to stay in the Town of Hvar. The hotel is situated 30 meters from the beach and features two outdoor pools, a spa and wellness center, a bar, and a restaurant.
All of the air-conditioned rooms boast free wifi and a private bathroom. Certain rooms also have pool views.
Guests can spend their days by the pool, getting a massage, or wandering the streets of Hvar Town.
Book: Hotel Moeesy
2. Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel
- Area: Old Town
- Best for: Couples seeking sea views & spa treatments
This beautiful hotel features panoramic views from the rooftop terrace, a rooftop swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves Mediterranean specialties.
All of the hotel rooms feature air conditioning, free wifi, a flat-screen TV, and glass-boxed bathrooms. The penthouse suites also offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and Hvar Town.
Guests can spend their time relaxing by the pool, enjoying a cocktail at the bar, or rejuvenating at the spa.
Book: Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel
3. White Rabbit Hostel
- Area: Old Town
- Best for: Budget travellers looking for a social place to stay
If you're on a budget but still want to stay in the town of Hvar for the vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, then White Rabbit Hostel is one of the best places to stay in Hvar, Croatia.
Located only five meters from the heart of Hvar Old Town, the White Rabbit Hostel features air conditioning, free wifi, shared bathrooms, and bright and spacious shared rooms.
Being in such a central location within walking distance to everything, staying at White Rabbit Hostel is fantastic for the Hvar nightlife, amazing restaurants, and beautiful sights.
If you aren't sure what to do while staying in Hvar Old Town, the staff at the hostel are there to help you organize any excursions, activities, or boat trips.
Book: White Rabbit Hostel
Tip: If you have some spare change I highly suggest ordering a pizza from KOGO which is a short walk from the hostel. Even better split the costs between hostel friends as this was some of the best pizzas I had on Hvar!
Stari Grad - Best Area for Exploring History and Culture
While the entire island of Hvar is filled with rich history and culture, the best place to stay and be at the center of it is Stari Grad. As the oldest town on the Croatian island, you can expect to seek out many historical sites.
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Maslina Resort | $$$$ |
 | Places | $$$ |
 | Anchor Apartments | $$$ |
4. Maslina Resort
- Area: Stari Grad
- Best for: Couples wanting a luxury wellness retreat, great for a romantic getaway
If you want to experience world-class service while staying on Hvar, one of the best places to visit in Croatia, then you must stay at Maslina Resort.
This 5-star hotel features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free wifi, a 24-hour front desk, and free bikes. The on-site restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine throughout the day, including vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free meals.
Guests can spend their days at the pool, cycling around the area, or unwind in the sauna. The area is popular for snorkeling, so be sure to head to the beach to check out the stunning marine life. You might even plan a day trip to witness the incredible Blue Cave.
Book: Maslina Resort
5. Places
- Area: Stari Grad
- Best for: Small groups or couples looking to relax in paradise, which is pet friendly
Located right on the beach promenade 50 meters from the sea, Hvar Placeshotel is one of the best places to stay in Stari Grad for the best access to the beach.
Surrounded by pine trees, this stunning hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court, a bar, and a restaurant. It even has its own Teepee tents to relax in for those who enjoy reading in the shade.
Each morning, guests can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast before starting their day. Some of the best things to do at the hotel include relaxing by the pool or exploring the surrounding area. The hotel provides bike, scooter, and boat rentals for your convenience.
Also, if you wish to visit the nearby island of Brač for a day trip, it can be arranged on-site. Alternatively, you can explore the impressive Stari Grad Plain UNESCO site by bike.
Book: Places
- Area: Stari Grad
- Best for: Families and small groups looking for an apartment-style stay
Anchor Apartments is a hidden gem in the heart of Stari Grad. Just a short stroll from the promenade and local beaches, these well-equipped apartments offer a cozy retreat after a day of exploring. It's a great option if youre traveling as a small group or family as it offers spacious rooms and living areas.
Whether you're sipping coffee on the balcony or wandering through the charming old town, Anchor Apartments provides the perfect base for your Hvar adventure for families and small groups!
Book: Anchor Apartments
Vrboska - Great Place to Relax in Nature
If you're looking to enjoy a relaxing holiday in Hvar, Vrboska is the best place for you to stay. Surrounded by forests, olive groves, and some tranquil beaches, Vrboska is also in close proximity to Jelsa and Stari Grad in case you want to explore other towns, too!
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Plage Cachée - Glamping | $$$ |
 | Villa Madalena | $$ |
 | Labranda Senses Resort | $$ |
7. Plage Cachée - Glamping
- Area: Vrboska
- Best for: Couples and nature lovers looking for a peaceful glamping stay
What could be more relaxing than glamping near the sea? Plage Cachée is one of the most unique places to stay in Hvar.
This accommodation features free wifi, a garden, BBQ facilities, and free parking.
All of the tents come with a terrace boasting sea views, a kitchen, and a private bathroom. Surrounded by beautiful pine forests and trails, hiking is one of the best things to do while staying at the accommodation.
Popular attractions to check out near the accommodation include Zečevo Island Beach and St. Stephen's Cathedral.
Book: Plage Cachée
8. Villa Madalena
- Area: Vrboska
- Best for: Families or friends wanting a stylish apartment with beach and town access
If you're looking for a quaint place to stay with your family or a group of friends, Villa Madalena is it!
This luxury 4-star apartment is located near Stari Grad's main town and features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a balcony boasting stunning views.
Being situated in such a great location, the apartment is just a short walk from beautiful beaches and local restaurants.
With Hvar being constantly rated as one of the best places to visit in Croatia, it's easy to see why Stari Grad is one of the best areas to stay, and Villa Madalena is no exception!
Book: Villa Madalena
9. Labranda Senses Resort
- Area: Vrboska
- Best for: Resort-style stay for couples with beachfront access and plenty of on-site activities
This stunning eco-friendly resort boasts a beachfront location, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court, a sauna, a gym, and an on-site restaurant.
All of the 182 guest rooms feature air conditioning, free wifi, flat-screen TVs, a private bathroom, and spacious balconies that boast incredible views.
Being in such a fantastic location by the sea, some of the popular activities to enjoy at the hotel include scuba diving, snorkeling, and motor boating. Other activities around the hotel include mini golf, basketball, archery, and more!
Book: Labranda Senses Resort
Jelsa - The Best Place to Stay for Nature Lovers
Located on the north of the island, Jesla is fantastic for nature lovers as it is filled with hiking trails and stunning beaches, including Beach Sveti Luka and Beach Mina.
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Apartments Casa di Giorgio | $$$ |
 | B&B Aurora | $$ |
 | Cova House | $$ |
10. Apartments Casa di Giorgio
- Area: Jelsa
- Best for: Couples or small families looking for quiet apartments near top beaches
Still wondering where to stay in Hvar? Located in the town of Jelsa and Fontana Beach reachable within less than 1 km, Apartments Casa di Giorgio features free wifi, a garden, and free private parking.
Guests can have peace of mind knowing each apartment has a terrace, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom.
Both bicycle and car rental services are available at the property for guests' convenience.
There are plenty of gorgeous pebble beaches to visit in the area, including Bočić Beach and Mina Beach.
Tip: If you're looking for a less crowded beach head to Sandy Beach in the early morning for a pristine area to swim and relax. It's just 2km from the Casa di Giorgio.
11. B&B Aurora
- Area: Jesla
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want breakfast and a peaceful stay
If you're searching for accommodation right in the heart of Jelsa that is affordable, quiet, and boasts wonderful views, then you must book B&B Aurora.
Only a 16-minute walk from Mina Beach, B&B Aurora features free wifi, air conditioning, a garden, and a terrace with lovely views. The location overlooks incredible gardens and views over the surrounding mountains.
Each morning, guests can enjoy a delicious buffet or continental breakfast before heading out to explore the area. Uvala Prapatna is a short 15-minute drive and is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day.
Book: B&B Aurora
12. Cova House
- Area: Jesla
- Best for: Couples seeking a peaceful seaside retreat with stunning views
A newly added accommodation to my list is the Cova House. It offers a tranquil getaway right by the sea in Jelsa and boasts over 170 positive reviews. Guests can enjoy breathtaking sea views from their balconies, and the property is just a short walk from Mina Beach and the town center.
The location is convenient for exploring local restaurants and nearby attractions. With free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and an on-site restaurant, Cova House provides a comfortable stay for those looking to unwind by the Adriatic Sea.
Book: Cova House
My Hotel Selection Process
- Accommodation Criteria: I select hotels & resorts in Hvar based on current prices, location & proximity to main attractions like the Old Town and Stari Grad, as well as current reviews, ratings, and recommendations.
- My Experience: I've stayed in multiple hotels & hostels in Hvar. I've personally reviewed and read through hundreds of listings, comparing them all based on my criteria to select hotels offering the best value for money.
- Top Reviews: All hotels I've selected maintain exceptional ratings on booking sites such as Hotels.com, Expedia, & Booking.com. I check them regularly to make sure they meet high standards.
- Local Insights: My hotel & resort selections are based on online listings and word of mouth with recommendations from other travelers & local tour operators.
Read more about how I review & select hotels & accommodations.
I'm Olly, a full-time traveler since 2018. Each accommodation option in this guide is handpicked by me. Read my travel review ethics statement.
FAQ About Staying in Hvar
How to get to Hvar?
From Split: Ferries and catamarans run regularly. The catamaran is faster, taking about 1 hour to reach Hvar Town, while ferries, which can transport cars, take about 2 hours to Stari Grad on Hvar. From Dubrovnik: During the summer months, there is a direct ferry line from Dubrovnik to Hvar. The journey can take around 3.5 hours by catamaran.
How many days should I spend in Hvar?
Spending 2-3 days is recommended in Hvar to fully enjoy its historical sites, nightlife, and beautiful beaches. This gives you enough time to explore the main attractions without feeling rushed and time to relax at the beaches.
What is the best area to stay in Hvar for nightlife?
Hvar Old Town is the top choice for nightlife enthusiasts. It's filled with vibrant bars and restaurants open until late.
What are the top luxury hotels in Hvar?
The Maslina Resort in Stari Grad and the Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel in Hvar Old Town are among the top luxury options, offering exceptional facilities and stunning views.
What is the best way to get around Hvar?
Renting a scooter or a bicycle is a great way to explore Hvar. Many accommodations provide rental services, or you can find rental shops in the main towns. Alternatively, bring a comfortable pair of shoes and explore as much as you can on foot.
I hope that you've enjoyed this comprehensive accommodation guide to where to stay in Hvar, Croatia.
If you're looking for more adventure-filled fun experiences or places to stay in Croatia, check out our list below.
- Split Travel Guide - find the top highlights and some hidden gems from Split.
- Fun Things to do in Omiš - discover Omiš with its great beaches and beautiful canyons.
- Accommodation Guides: plan where to stay in Split or the best areas to stay in Dubrovnik
