Hvar Town is the beating heart of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. You'll find centuries-old Venetian architecture with a cosmopolitan energy that’s felt from its vibrant harbor to the white-stone piazza overlooking the Adriatic. Hvar Town is also deeply rooted in tradition, with olive groves and vineyards stretching to the hillsides, lavender-scented markets in summer, and a slow-paced Mediterranean charm lingering just beyond the main square.
Overview:
Distance from Split: About 23 nautical miles
Duration of the tour: 10 to 11-hour full-day tour
Best time of year: May–September, with July–August offering bustling cafés, open-air events, and Hvar’s legendary nightlife
Meeting/drop-off point: Split, Trogir, or Podstrana
Key attractions: The Spanish Fortress, St Stephen's Square, Palm-lined Riva, chic bars
Most popular tour: From Split: Full Day Tour to Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon & 5 Islands
What to expect on Hvar Island tour?
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Relaxing afternoon in Hvar Town
Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Hvar Town, rich in history and local Croatian culture. Easily accessible from Split or Trogir, it's an ideal stop on a full-day tour where you can stroll is historic streets, visit vibrant cafés, and get stunning seaside views.
Blue Cave visit on the 5 Island tour
Located on Bisevo Island, Blue Cave is a highlight of the 5 Island tour. This tour also includes stops at Vis Island to see the iconic Mamma Mia filming spots. You can swim and snorkel in crystal-clear Adriatic waters before ending your adventure in lively Hvar Town.
A stroll along Venetian architecture
Take a peaceful walk through Hvar Town’s historic center, surrounded by fortified Venetian walls from the 13th century. The town’s expansive stone piazza which is also the largest in Dalmatia, is bordered by elegant palaces and buildings featuring classic Venetian arcades, loggias, and balustrades.
Things to know before booking your Hvar Island Tours
The full-day tours that start from Split or Trogir typically begin at 7 am and return by early evening, around 5 or 6 pm.
The tours are conducted using modern speedboats, providing shaded seating for comfort. However, space is limited, so it’s advisable to avoid carrying large luggage or bags.
For a more personalized experience, you can opt for a private tour, which is capped at 10 guests. This option offers greater flexibility and is ideal for small groups or couples seeking a more curated experience with onboard facilities.
Entry to the Blue Cave is regulated, and visits inside last about 10–15 minutes. Swimming inside the cave is not permitted to protect its delicate ecosystem, and access is only possible via a narrow entrance with a small boat.
Tickets for the Blue Cave are not included in the tour price; they cost between €12 and €24 per person depending on the season, so it’s recommended to carry cash in euros to pay on site.
Since these tours are especially popular during the peak summer months from June to August, it’s highly advisable to book in advance to secure your spot.
Experience Croatia’s famed Blue Cave on a private tour limited to just 10 guests. With a flexible itinerary and personalized touches, it’s the ultimate way to explore from Split or Trogir.
Highlights of Hvar Island
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Spanish Fortress
The 16th-century Spanish Fortress (Fortica) towers above Hvar Town, built to protect against invasions. It features thick stone walls, bastions, and barracks, and gives you panoramic views of the town and surrounding islands, alongside historical exhibits inside.
Main Square
Hvar’s Main Square is the largest stone piazza in Dalmatia, bordered by historic palaces and public buildings with Venetian architectural details. It serves as the social and cultural heart of the town, often bustling with cafés, markets, and events.
Palm-lined Riva
The palm-lined Riva is Hvar’s vibrant harbor promenade. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and yachts, it’s a scenic place to stroll, relax, and enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea and the lively waterfront atmosphere.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, built between the 15th and 18th centuries, showcases Renaissance architecture and a striking bell tower. Inside, it houses valuable altars and paintings, reflecting the town’s Venetian artistic heritage.
Hvar Island map
Stops along the way
Getting to Hvar Island
Tips for visiting Hvar Island
Best time to visit Hvar Island
Season: The prime season runs from May through September, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine perfect for island hopping and beach days.
Shoulder months (May, June & September): Enjoy warm seas, pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and more affordable prices.
Peak summer (July & August): Expect lively beach clubs, bustling nightlife, crowded streets, and higher prices. Book accommodations and tours well in advance.
Many small taverns and beach bars on Hvar still prefer cash, and entrance fees like the Blue Cave ticket can only be paid in euros cash. ATMs are mostly in Hvar Town, none on smaller islets.
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Snorkeling gear is sometimes provided on tours, but having your own ensures best fit and comfort.
Drinks are available but can be pricey. Consider a reusable water bottle or choose tours including refreshments.
If you are using water taxis from Hvar Town to nearby islands, confirm return times before heading out as service frequency drops outside peak season.
Renting a car or scooter is a good idea if you want to explore local hidden beaches and villages off the beaten path, especially inland areas unreachable by public transport.
Frequently asked questions about Hvar Island
Hvar lies off Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, between the islands of Brač and Korčula, easily accessible by ferry or speedboat from Split, Dubrovnik, or nearby islands.
The fastest way is by speedboat, taking about an hour from Split or 1.5 hours from Trogir. Ferries also operate daily, docking at Hvar Town or Stari Grad.
Hvar Town is known for its Venetian architecture, lively harbor, and attractions like the Spanish Fortress, 17th-century theatre, and seafront promenade lined with cafes and yachts.
Yes! Many Blue Cave and 5-island hopping tours end in Hvar Town, giving you time to explore its old streets, swim, or enjoy a seaside meal before heading back.
Absolutely. Hvar offers a mix of rocky coves and pebble beaches, with spots like Dubovica, Pokonji Dol, and the Pakleni Islands nearby for swimming and sunbathing.
Expect fresh seafood, olive oil, and local wines. Don’t miss gregada (fish stew), octopus salad, and a glass of Hvar Bogdanuša or Plavac Mali wine.
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes for exploring, and cash for small cafes or boat transfers.
Figuring out transportation to the islands can be tricky, so why not book a guided tour that showcases the best highlights of the Dalmatian Coast and the magnificent Blue Cave? You get to choose your starting point, whether it's Split or Trogir and you’ll be brought back to the chosen boarding point after a full day of exploration. Check out the tour options below.
If you are travelling solo or planning to stay on the island then you can take a ferry from Split to Hvar Town. There are catamarans running multiple times daily. The ferry ride takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Time: Approximately 1.5 hours by ferry + 10–15 minutes by water taxi
Cost: Ferry fares range from €8 to €25 one-way; water taxi costs €5–10
Best for: Travelers seeking flexibility
You can opt for a full-day private tour that includes a stop at Hvar Island and follows a 5-island route. This small-group experience lets you customize your itinerary if in case you wish to spend more time on Hvar and enjoy a more intimate, crowd-free adventure.
Time: 10-11 hours tour
Best for: Couples, small groups, families
If you are traveling with a vehicle, you can take a car ferry from Split to Stari Grad on Hvar Island. Alternatively, you can drive from Split to Drvenik and then take a shorter car ferry from Drvenik to Sućuraj on Hvar.
Time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes from Split to Stari Grad ferry port (plus driving) or 2.5 hours total via Drvenik–Sućuraj route
Cost: Around €40–45 for a car on the Split-Stari Grad ferry; about €3 for foot passengers on Drvenik-Sućuraj ferry
The stunning Blue Cave on Biševo Island, famous for its shimmering blue light is an absolute must-visit. You’ll spend 10-15 minutes inside the cave which is accessed only by small boat because of its narrow entrance.
Best known for: Electric-blue light caused by refracting sunlight
Included in: All tours
Vis Island
Vis Island is known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and charming fishing villages like Komiza.
Best known for: Filming of Mamma Mia 2 and historic military sights.
Included in: All tours
Budikovac Island (Blue Lagoon)
Explore the tranquil Blue Lagoon at Budikovac Island, with its turquoise waters, pebble beach, and excellent swimming spots. It’s the perfect place for relaxing and snorkeling.
Best known for: The turquoise waters of Blue Lagoon
Included in: All tours
Pakleni Islands
These islands with secluded coves, sandy beaches, and lively beach clubs are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring charming seaside villages.
Best known for: Pine-covered islets and secluded beaches
Included in: All tours
Palmižana Bay
Palmižana Bay is a picturesque coastal area filled with lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and a famous marina.
Best known for: Picturesque marina and excellent beach bars
Included in: All tours
Srebrna Beach
Srebrna Beach is another swimming stop on your tour. Unique silver-colored pebbles, shallow waters, and scenic surroundings make it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the tranquil coast.
Best known for: Silver-pebble shore, shallow and calm waters ideal for families
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Sightseeing Cruises
From Split: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Hvar and 5 Island Boat Tour
Skip the hassle with seamless round-trip boat transfers from Split and explore 5 stunning islands with optional Blue Cave entry.
Day out to the Blue Caves: Meet the guide at the Riva in Split, the main promenade in front of the Palace near the large parking lot, by the Brass Gate entrance to Diocletian’s Palace basement. Travel comfortably on a spacious, sun-covered speedboat.
Everything you get: Round-trip boat transfers with stops at Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Bisevo, and Hvar. Swim and snorkel in Stiniva Bay and Blue Lagoon, and enjoy a lunch stop at Palmižana Bay (meal not included).
Why choose this: With just 8 to 12 guests, this small-group tour offers a personal touch, allowing you to engage with your guide and fully relax while all transfers and arrangements are smoothly handled.
Upgrades: Choose the option with Blue Cave entry for added convenience.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
10 hr - 11 hr 30 min
Guided tour
Transfers available
Sightseeing Cruises
From Trogir: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Hvar and 5 Island Boat Tour
Skip the stress with smooth round-trip boat transfers from Trogir and explore the Blue Caves, Blue Lagoon, and 5 stunning Adriatic islands.
Day out to the Blue Caves: Depart from Trogir early morning and transfer to Split. Meet your skipper and group at the Gray Line office on Split’s Riva promenade, located next to the Brass Gate entrance to Diocletian’s Palace seafront. Travel comfortably on a spacious, sun-covered speedboat.
Everything you get: Round-trip boat transfers to Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Bisevo, and Hvar, with visits to the Mamma Mia filming spots Komiža, Stiniva Cove, and Srebrena Beach. Swim and snorkel in Stiniva Bay and the Blue Lagoon, and enjoy a lunch stop at Palmižana Bay (meal not included)
Why choose this: Limited to 8 to 12 guests, this intimate tour combines hassle-free logistics with a personal touch, allowing you to connect with your skipper while all transfers are seamlessly handled.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
10 hr
Guided tour
Transfers available
Sightseeing Cruises
#Private Boat Tour from Split/Trogir (Upto 10 people): Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Hvar
Skip long waits and overcrowded boats on a private full-day escape from Split or Trogir with exclusive access to iconic Mamma Mia filming spots.
Day out to the Blue Caves: Meet your expert English-speaking skipper at Trumbićeva obala in Split or Obala bana Berislavića in Trogir. Look for the sun-covered speedboat marked 'Providencia charter' and set off on a peaceful journey through crystal-clear waters.
Everything you get: Round-trip private boat transfers for 10 guests, stops at Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Biševo (Blue Cave), and Hvar, swimming and snorkeling opportunities in Stiniva Bay and Blue Lagoon, visits to Mamma Mia filming locations Komiža, Stiniva Cove, and Srebrena Beach, and lunch stop near Hvar (meal not included)
Why choose this: Tailored for private groups up to 10 guests, this tour guarantees a flexible, comfortable experience. Skip the crowds, soak up amazing views, and rest easy knowing all the details are taken care of.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
10 hr
Guided tour
Transfers available
Meals included
Skip the hassle with seamless round-trip boat transfers from Split and explore 5 stunning islands with optional Blue Cave entry.
Day out to the Blue Caves: Meet the guide at the Riva in Split, the main promenade in front of the Palace near the large parking lot, by the Brass Gate entrance to Diocletian’s Palace basement. Travel comfortably on a spacious, sun-covered speedboat.
Everything you get: Round-trip boat transfers with stops at Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Bisevo, and Hvar. Swim and snorkel in Stiniva Bay and Blue Lagoon, and enjoy a lunch stop at Palmižana Bay (meal not included).
Why choose this: With just 8 to 12 guests, this small-group tour offers a personal touch, allowing you to engage with your guide and fully relax while all transfers and arrangements are smoothly handled.
Upgrades: Choose the option with Blue Cave entry for added convenience.
Inclusions
#
10 to 11-hour full-day tour to the Blue Caves
Round-trip boat transfers from Split to the islands of Vis and Bisevo
Expert English-speaking skipper and guide
Entry to Blue Caves (based on option selected, subject to seasonal prices)
Visit to 5 islands: Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Bisevo and Hvar
Swimming and snorkeling in Stiniva Bay and Blue Lagoon
Lunch stop off the boat at Palmižana Bay (meal not included)
Spacious, sun-covered speedboat ride
Small-group experience (8 to 12 guests)
Diving masks and safety gear
Fuel, handling charges, and insurance
Bottled water
Note: Blue Cave entry fees vary seasonally from €12 to €24 and must be paid in cash on site.
Exclusions
#
Hotel pick-up and drop-off services
Food and drinks
Gratuities (optional)
What to bring
Carry cash for the Blue Cave entrance fee, as card payments are generally not accepted.
Bring swimwear and water shoes if you plan to swim or snorkel at designated stops.
Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and drinking water to stay protected and hydrated.
A light jacket is recommended, as it can get breezy during the boat ride.
Accessibility
This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility.
It is also not recommended for pregnant travelers, individuals with back issues, or young children under 5 years old.
What’s not allowed
Swimming inside the Blue Cave is not permitted; however, swimming is allowed at nearby locations such as Stiniva Bay and Budikovac Blue Lagoon.
Flash photography is prohibited inside the cave to avoid disturbing marine life.
Additional information
The tour departs at 8am from Split’s Riva promenade; please arrive by 7:45am for check-in.
You can meet the team at the Brass Gate of Diocletian’s Palace (Booking Stand 16) or opt for pickup from Marulićeva 4.
Blue Cave entrance fees range from €12 to €24 depending on the season and must be paid in cash on-site.
The cave’s signature blue glow is most vivid around midday, making early departures ideal.
Tours are weather-dependent; in case of unfavorable sea conditions, delays, rescheduling, or full refunds may apply.
Boat transfers are included; if you are prone to seasickness, it’s advisable to take precautions as the ride can be choppy.
Please follow your guide’s instructions at all times to ensure safety and help preserve the cave’s delicate ecosystem.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Skip the stress with smooth round-trip boat transfers from Trogir and explore the Blue Caves, Blue Lagoon, and 5 stunning Adriatic islands.
Day out to the Blue Caves: Depart from Trogir early morning and transfer to Split. Meet your skipper and group at the Gray Line office on Split’s Riva promenade, located next to the Brass Gate entrance to Diocletian’s Palace seafront. Travel comfortably on a spacious, sun-covered speedboat.
Everything you get: Round-trip boat transfers to Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Bisevo, and Hvar, with visits to the Mamma Mia filming spots Komiža, Stiniva Cove, and Srebrena Beach. Swim and snorkel in Stiniva Bay and the Blue Lagoon, and enjoy a lunch stop at Palmižana Bay (meal not included)
Why choose this: Limited to 8 to 12 guests, this intimate tour combines hassle-free logistics with a personal touch, allowing you to connect with your skipper while all transfers are seamlessly handled.
Inclusions
#
10 to 11-hour full-day tour to the Blue Caves
Round-trip boat transfers from Trogir to the islands of Vis and Bisevo
Expert English-speaking skipper and guide
Visit to 5 islands: Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Bisevo and Hvar
Swimming and snorkeling in Stiniva Bay and Blue Lagoon
Lunch stop off the boat at Palmižana Bay (meal not included)
Spacious, sun-covered speedboat ride
Small-group experience (8 to 12 guests)
Diving masks and safety gear
Fuel, handling charges, and insurance
Bottled water
Note: Blue Cave entry fees vary seasonally from €12 to €24 and must be paid in cash on site.
Exclusions
#
Blue Caves entry fee
Hotel pick-up and drop-off services
Food and drinks
Gratuities (optional)
7am - Trogir
7:30am - Split
9am - 9:15am - Sightseeing of Blue Cave
10am - 11am - Visiting Komiža, free time for coffee
11:30am - 12pm - Swimming in Stiniva Cove
12:10pm - 12:15pm - Srebrena beach, passing by this amazing Mamma Mia filming location to take some photos
12:30pm - 1:45apm - Swimming and snorkeling on a beautiful beach on Budikovac island
2:00pm - 2:15pm - Panoramic view of Pakleni islands
2:30pm - 5pm - Town Hvar, free time for lunch and sightseeing
6:30pm - Return to Split
7pm - Return to Trogir
What to bring
Bring cash for the Blue Cave entrance fee, as card payments are typically not accepted.
Pack swimwear and water shoes if you plan to swim or snorkel during the stops.
Carry sunscreen, a hat, and drinking water to stay protected and hydrated.
A light jacket is recommended since it can get breezy out at sea.
What’s not allowed
Swimming inside the Blue Cave is not permitted; however, you can swim at nearby spots like Stiniva Bay and Budikovac’s Blue Lagoon.
Flash photography is prohibited inside the cave to avoid disturbing marine life.
Accessibility
This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility.
It is also not recommended for pregnant travelers, individuals with back conditions, or children under 5 years old.
Additional information
Blue Cave entry fees range from €12 to €24, depending on the season, and must be paid in cash on arrival.
The cave’s iconic blue glow is most visible around midday, so early departures are ideal.
Tours operate only in safe sea conditions; in case of unfavorable weather, cancellations or delays may occur with a full refund offered.
Boat transfers to and from the cave are included; if you are prone to seasickness, it’s best to take precautions as the ride can be rough.
Follow your guide’s instructions at all times to ensure safety and help preserve the cave’s delicate ecosystem.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Skip long waits and overcrowded boats on a private full-day escape from Split or Trogir with exclusive access to iconic Mamma Mia filming spots.
Day out to the Blue Caves: Meet your expert English-speaking skipper at Trumbićeva obala in Split or Obala bana Berislavića in Trogir. Look for the sun-covered speedboat marked 'Providencia charter' and set off on a peaceful journey through crystal-clear waters.
Everything you get: Round-trip private boat transfers for 10 guests, stops at Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Biševo (Blue Cave), and Hvar, swimming and snorkeling opportunities in Stiniva Bay and Blue Lagoon, visits to Mamma Mia filming locations Komiža, Stiniva Cove, and Srebrena Beach, and lunch stop near Hvar (meal not included)
Why choose this: Tailored for private groups up to 10 guests, this tour guarantees a flexible, comfortable experience. Skip the crowds, soak up amazing views, and rest easy knowing all the details are taken care of.
Inclusions
#
10 to 11-hour full-day private tour to the Blue Caves
Round-trip boat transfers from Split or Trogir (based on option selected)
Tailored for private groups of up to 10 guests
Expert English-speaking skipper and guide
Visit to Blue Caves (entry fee not included; to be paid on-site as per seasonal rates)
Visit to 5 islands: Vis, Budikovac, Pakleni, Bisevo and Hvar
Visit the iconic Mamma Mia filming sites: Komiža village, Stiniva Cove, and Srebrena Beach
Swimming and snorkeling in Stiniva Bay and Blue Lagoon
Lunch stop off the boat near Hvar (meal not included)
Spacious, sun-covered speedboat ride
Diving masks and safety gear
Fuel, handling charges, and insurance
Bottled water
Note: Blue Cave entry fees vary seasonally from €12 to €24 and must be paid in cash on-site
Exclusions
#
Blue Cave entry fee
Hotel pick-up and drop-off services
Food and drinks
Gratuities (optional)
What to bring
Carry cash for the Blue Cave entrance fee, as card payments are generally not accepted.
Pack swimwear and water shoes if you plan to swim or snorkel at designated stops.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and enough water to stay protected and hydrated throughout the day.
A light jacket is advisable, as it can get windy during the boat ride.
What’s not allowed
Swimming inside the Blue Cave is not permitted, though you can swim at nearby locations like Stiniva Bay and Budikovac’s Blue Lagoon.
Flash photography is not allowed inside the cave to avoid disturbing marine life.
Accessibility
This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility.
It is also not recommended for pregnant travelers, individuals with back issues, or children under 5 years old.
Additional information
Blue Cave entry fees vary between €12 and €24 depending on the season and must be paid in cash on-site.
Tours operate only under safe sea conditions; in case of bad weather, delays, rescheduling, or full refunds may apply.
Your skipper may adjust the route or timing to create a more personalized experience.
The cave’s signature blue glow is most vivid around midday, so early departures are recommended.
Boat transfers are included; if you are prone to seasickness, take precautions as the ride can be choppy.
Always follow your guide’s instructions to ensure safety and help protect the cave’s fragile ecosystem.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.