Planning a sailing trip? Compare yacht charters. Compare at Adriatic Yacht Guide →

Hvar Coastal Croatia · Island Guide

The Journal

Field Notes From the Island

Long-form guides and reviews, researched on foot and published as they're finished.

A quiet cove on Hvar's southern coast, a contrast to Split's city waterfront

logistics · Jul 28, 2026

Hvar vs Split: Which Should You Visit in 2026?

Hvar or Split for your Croatia trip — city vs island, nightlife vs quiet coves, and why most travellers should really do both.

The narrow old-town streets of Stari Grad, Hvar, best explored on foot

logistics · Jul 27, 2026

Do You Need a Car on Hvar? An Honest Answer

When a rental car is worth it on Hvar and when it isn't — by base, by trip length, and what to do instead if you'd rather not drive.

The old town of Stari Grad, gateway to the UNESCO-listed plain

culture · Jul 24, 2026

The Stari Grad Plain: Hvar's UNESCO Site, Explained

What the Stari Grad Plain actually is, why it's UNESCO-listed, how to visit by bike or on foot, and the best time of day to go.

A restored stone villa on the Stari Grad waterfront, Hvar

stays · Jul 22, 2026

Hvar Town vs Stari Grad: Where Should You Stay?

Hvar Town or Stari Grad for your base — nightlife vs quiet, harbor vs the UNESCO plain, and which one actually suits your trip.

Speedboat crossing the Pakleni Islands near Hvar at dusk

coastal · Jul 20, 2026

Is the Hvar Blue Cave Tour Worth It? A Straight Answer

What the Hvar Blue Cave tour actually includes, when to go for the best light, realistic prices, and whether it beats a Pakleni-only boat day.

Split to Hvar Ferry Guide: Routes, Times & Booking Tips

logistics · Jul 15, 2026

Split to Hvar Ferry Guide: Routes, Times & Booking Tips

Every way to cross from Split to Hvar — fast catamarans, car ferries, timings, and how to book before summer sailings sell out.

Dubovica Beach: How to Visit Hvar's Most Photographed Cove

coastal · Jul 10, 2026

Dubovica Beach: How to Visit Hvar's Most Photographed Cove

The walk down, when to arrive, where to swim, and how to see Dubovica the way it looked before the island got famous.

Heritage Villa Apolon Review: Stari Grad's Grande Dame

stays · Jul 5, 2026

Heritage Villa Apolon Review: Stari Grad's Grande Dame

We spent three nights at Heritage Villa Apolon on the Stari Grad waterfront. Here's who it suits, what it costs, and what to book.