Hvar is an island, so every trip begins with a boat. The good news is that the connections are frequent and simple in the warm months, and the island is small enough that you can reach most places without much stress. The more demanding part is understanding which port to choose and how to move once you arrive. This guide covers the main options.
From Split: two kinds of boat
The most common route to Hvar starts at Split, on the mainland. A fast passenger catamaran runs from Split to Hvar Town, usually taking around an hour, and it is the quickest way to reach the harbour if you travel without a car. A car ferry runs from Split to Stari Grad on the north coast, taking roughly two hours, and it carries vehicles as well as foot passengers. Which one you choose depends on your base. If you are staying in Hvar Town, the catamaran lands you at the harbour, a short walk from most hotels. If you are staying in Stari Grad, Jelsa or elsewhere, the ferry is the natural choice. Both services are run by the national and private operators, and schedules change by season, with many more departures in summer than in winter.
From other mainland ports
A shorter car ferry connects the mainland port of Drvenik to Sucuraj at the eastern end of the island, which suits drivers arriving from the south, such as from the Makarska Riviera. From Sucuraj a long road runs the length of the island to Jelsa, Stari Grad and Hvar Town, so allow at least an hour and a half. Seasonal catamarans also link Hvar to other Dalmatian islands, such as Korcula and Brac, and to Dubrovnik in the summer months. Check timetables carefully, because these services are limited outside the main season.
Booking and timing
In July and August, vehicle spaces on the car ferry fill early, and queues form at the port, so reserve a place in advance when it is possible and arrive well ahead of departure. Foot passengers can usually buy tickets at the port or online. Catamaran tickets are also easier to secure in advance in high season. In winter, schedules thin out and weather can cause cancellations, particularly in strong wind, so leave a buffer before flights and appointments.
Arriving at Split airport
Many visitors fly into Split and continue by boat. The airport is some distance from the ferry terminal, so allow time for a taxi, bus or transfer. Private water taxis and speedboat transfers run directly from the airport area to Hvar in summer, which is fast but expensive. For most travelers, a taxi or bus to the Split port and a catamaran is the sensible route.
Getting around the island
Hvar has a modest bus network connecting Hvar Town, Stari Grad, Jelsa and some villages, with timetables that fit the ferries and fewer services in winter. Taxis are plentiful in the towns but expensive for long runs. Water taxis connect Hvar Town with the Pakleni Islands and beaches. Many visitors rent a scooter, a bicycle or an e-bike for flexibility, and a car is useful for exploring the south coast villages and vineyards, though roads are winding and parking in Hvar Town is limited. Guided tours by minibus, tuk tuk, quad or bike solve the problem of access to the interior without driving.
Tips
Carry some cash for buses, taxis and small purchases. Check the weather forecast before a ferry crossing, particularly for strong wind. Keep your luggage light, because the lanes in Hvar Town are stepped. Ask your accommodation about arrival help, and confirm where the taxi rank or bus stop is. If you travel with a car, book parking in advance in Hvar Town, or leave the vehicle at Stari Grad and use buses and taxis.
Leaving
Plan to be at the port with time in hand, and allow extra time for a flight connection. Late-evening departures may be limited, so check the last boat of the day.
Accessibility
The harbour front in Hvar Town is flat, but many lanes are stepped, and some hotels have no lifts. Ferries and catamarans are generally accessible with assistance, so inform the operator in advance if you use a wheelchair or have limited mobility. Taxis can reach most hotels, and some lodging offers luggage help. Choose accommodation with level access if stairs are a concern, and ask about the route from the port.
Ticket checks
Keep your ticket and identification handy for boarding, and confirm the departure port, because Split has several ferry terminals. Arrive early in summer, when queues build quickly.
