Stari Grad, Hvar: All you have to know!
The harbor town Stari Grad is located in the west of Hvar island, and it is the 2nd largest city with about 1,900 inhabitants. This historic site was built in 384 BC. founded as Pharos and is therefore one of the oldest places in Croatia. On a city walk, you will discover some interesting sights, small museums and many pretty details. The whole ambience of the old town including the countless winding streets and the picturesque stone houses have an exceptional charm. In addition, the beaches in the area around Stari Grad provide plenty of holiday feeling. That’s why the “Old Town” Stari Grad is not only a great place to visit but also for many a popular holiday destination on Hvar.
In this travel guide, we show you the most beautiful attractions and things to do in Stari Grad, Hvar. Furthermore, we give you useful tips and recommendations about excursions, ferry, parking, and accommodations.
Good to know!
The romantic coastal town of Stari Grad is home to some of the best places for where to stay in Hvar. Highly recommended is the B&B Heritage Apolon directly at the harbor.
If you want to spend your vacation on Hvar Island, it is best to take the ferry from Split. The car ferry docks in Stari Grad and the trip takes about 2 hours.
The town of Stari Grad has already been nominated for “Best European Destination 2017” and the surrounding Stari Grad Plain has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2008.
Not only Stari Grad is worth seeing, but also the surrounding area is very attractive. Not far away are the picturesque fishing village of Vrboska and the pretty resort of Jelsa.
General information about Stari Grad
With a population of 1885, Stari Grad is the second-largest town on the island of Hvar, and its name means “Old Town”. It is the historical pearl of the island of Hvar and, therefore, for many one of the most worthwhile places to visit on the island. Founded in 384 B.C. by Greek colonists, this coastal gem boasts impressive architecture from various eras. Beautifully situated in a secluded bay, there are many attractions to discover in Stari Grad. Around every corner is a pretty little square, an interesting museum, a charming restaurant or a small church. The best way to enjoy this historic city center with all its cultural highlights is to simply drift through the small old Venetian alleys.
Another jewel of Stari Grad is the beautiful promenade along the waterfront. Take a stroll along the palm tree lined promenade with its beautiful Dalmatian stone houses and the relaxed atmosphere that creates a picture book setting. Furthermore, the town is also famous for the Stari Grad plain, the Starogradsko polje, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the oldest cultural plains in the world and can easily be explored by bicycle.
Things to do in Stari Grad, Hvar
When visiting Stari Grad, there are some really amazing things to discover! The picturesque old town and the charming harbor promenade are especially beautiful and can best be explored during a leisurely stroll. We have compiled the best attractions and the top things to do in Stari Grad, which you should not miss, at a glance.
Waterfront Promenade & Old Town
The main attraction of Stari Grad and the center of the town is the picturesque waterfront promenade and the old part of the town. Take a stroll past the boats bobbing in the water and along the beautiful Riva and enjoy the incredibly impressive ambience. The holiday flair is absolutely unique and invites you to enjoy. Compared to Hvar Town, there are fewer tourists in this harbor town and the overall flair is very authentic.
Tip: There are some enchanting accommodations along the waterfront promenade, such as the romantic B&B Heritage Apolon or the charming House at the Seafront.
Church of St. Stephen
A wonderful place to visit in the Old Town is the Church of St. Stephen, also known as Sv. Stjepan, whose freestanding bell tower rises high above the rooftops of Stari Grad. It was built between the 9th and 10th centuries and is dedicated to the patron saint of the coastal town. If you like, you can climb the tower and enjoy a magnificent view of the Old Town. The tower is open from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 12pm and from 5pm to 7pm. Also worth a visit is the square in front of the church.
Square Trg Skor
Probably the most picturesque square and one of the best places to visit in Stari Grad is Skor Square, also called Trg Skor. This baroque square has a lot of romantic flair and thrills with beautiful stone houses from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. One of the most beautiful attractions in the heart of Stari Grad, which should not be missed. During the summer months, there are also various cultural events taking place.
Tvrdalj Castle
The wonderful Tvrdalj Castle, built by the 16th century poet Petar Hektorovic, is a true must-see in Stari Grad. Built between 1520 and 1569, it is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the Old Town. It took the poet almost 50 years to build this small fortress, so there are many romantic nooks and crannies to discover inside. The centerpiece is the emerald-colored fishpond in the middle of the castle. The view from the terrace and a walk through the garden are also worthwhile.
White Cross & Stari Grad Plain
Another highlight of Stari Grad, as well as the island of Hvar is the White Cross and its lovely chapel. It is located on a hill near to the old town and can be reached via a short 30-minute hike (from the city center). From the top there is a breathtaking view of Stari Grad, the bay and the beautiful landscape that surrounds the harbor town. The plateau around Stari Grad, the Stari Grad Plain, was even added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage in 2008 and is therefore one of the main attractions of the region.
Tip: The ascent to the White Cross leads along a rather stony path and offers a wonderful view of the landscape. Sturdy footwear, sun protection and provisions are recommended.
Beaches around Stari Grad Hvar
Stari Grad Hvar is mainly known for its historic old town, but there are also swimming opportunities and beautiful beaches nearby. One of the most popular beaches in Stari Grad is Plaza Bonj, the city beach of Stari Grad, which consists partly of pebbles and partly of concrete slabs. Lanterna beach, a cove about 100 meters from Borik, is also a wonderful place for swimming and relaxing. There are also many breathtaking natural bays in the surrounding area. A highlight is Maslinica beach, about 8 kilometers from Stari Grad. This beach jewel is located near the village of Vrboska and is well worth a detour.
Tip: Stari Grad is a great starting point for visiting some beautiful bays by car. Here is a summary of the most amazing beaches in Hvar Island.
Things to do around Stari Grad Hvar
During a vacation in Stari Grad you can really experience a lot. There are also numerous places of interest to be discovered in the surrounding area.
Thus, the town is ideally suited as a starting point for island exploration tours. A main attraction is Hvar Town, which is also home to the Spanish fortress.
Interesting places in the area are the resort of Jelsa, and the picturesque harbor town of Vrboska. Of course, you should go on excursions to the beaches of Hvar Island.
Highly recommended tours are boat trips to the Blue Grotto to Vis or wine tours, where you can taste the traditional and delicious wines of the island.
Where to Stay in Stari Grad, Hvar
If you would like to spend the night in a typical Dalmatian port town, then we can only recommend that you stay in an apartment or in a hotel in Stari Grad. There are some great small hotels and apartments waiting for you in the picturesque streets of the city center. Here are the best tips for where to stay in Stari Grad… It’s worth a look!
- Magnificent Heritage Hotel: The B&B Heritage Villa Apolon scores with its fantastic location on the Stari Grad promenade, wonderful ambience and good breakfast.
- Beautiful Resort with pool: The Valamar Amicor Green Resort is a great choice for a vacation in Stari Grad. Guests love the beautiful grounds, pool and great rooms.
- Apartment in the Old Town: The Apartment Primorac is a beautiful apartment in a typical stone house in the narrow streets of the Old Town of Stari Grad.
- Studios on the Promenade: The House at the seafront is an insider tip in Stari Grad. It offers tasteful studio apartments right on the picturesque promenade.
Find the best accommodation in Stari Grad:
More about Hvar Island:
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Where to Stay in Hvar: A Complete Guide
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15 Unique Things to do on Hvar Island
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Vrboska, Hvar: Travel Guide & Best Beaches
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Jelsa, Hvar: Travel Guide & Best Beaches
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Top 12 Most Amazing Beaches of Hvar Island
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