The Riva Hvar Yacht Harbour Hotel sits on the waterfront of Hvar Town, steps from the main square and the departure points for island boats, and that location defines the stay. You walk out of the lobby and you are on the harbour front, with the yacht moorings, the cafe terraces and the old town lanes directly in reach. It is the kind of hotel that suits travelers who want to be in the middle of the action: first-time visitors, couples on a short stay and friends who plan to spend evenings in town. The hotel is known for a contemporary look compared with the historic buildings around it, and many rooms and suites look over the harbour or the old town roofs. Expect a compact boutique feel rather than the sprawl of a beach resort, with service that revolves around the harbour and the town.
A harbour-front location brings clear advantages and some trade-offs. The advantages: you can walk to everything, including the cathedral square, the Arsenal, restaurants, bars and the fortress path. Boat tours to the Pakleni Islands leave from the quay nearby, and the water taxi to the beaches is a few steps away.
Sunrise and sunset over the harbour are at your door. The trade-offs: the waterfront can be lively late at night in July and August, with music from nearby venues and the buzz of the promenade. Light sleepers should ask for a room on a higher floor or away from the front, and use earplugs if needed.
Hvar Town is compact enough that you rarely need a car. Walking is the main way to get around, and the old streets are best on foot. If you arrive by catamaran or ferry, the port is within a short walk or a brief taxi ride, and baggage assistance can be arranged. Check the hotel's current services and whether breakfast is included, since policies change by season. Some harbour-front hotels have limited parking, so if you travel by car ask about arrangements in advance.
Who it suits
Couples, first-timers, solo travelers and groups of friends who want atmosphere. It is less ideal for families who need a pool on site, though the town's beaches and boat trips can fill that need. Book early for summer and for the shoulder months when the island is busy with sailing events.
In winter the harbour is quiet, many restaurants close and the hotel may have a reduced schedule, so confirm opening dates. Request a room with a harbour view if your budget allows, since the view of the boats is a defining feature of the stay.
Why stay here
- ✓Harbour-front location
- ✓Steps from the main square
- ✓Harbour and old town views
- ✓Boat departures nearby
- ✓Contemporary room design
- ✓Walk to restaurants and bars
- ✓Water taxi to the beaches
- ✓Luggage assistance on arrival
Good questions
Is the Riva hotel noisy at night?+
The harbour can be lively in summer, so ask for a higher floor or a room away from the front if you sleep lightly.
Do I need a car?+
No. Hvar Town is compact and walkable, and boats and taxis cover the rest.
Is it close to boat trips?+
Yes, island boats depart from the quay a short walk away.
