Pillar 04 · Logistics
Getting Here, Without the Friction
Ferries, car hire, transfers — the unglamorous decisions that make or break an island week, solved in one place.
Ferries
The Split–Hvar Crossings
Four routes serve the island. Pick by port: Hvar Town for the scene, Stari Grad if you're bringing a car.
| Route | Type | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Split → Hvar Town Books out first in July–August | Fast catamaran (passenger only) | 55–65 min |
| Split → Stari Grad The route for rental cars & campers | Car ferry | 2 hours |
| Drvenik → Sućuraj Handy from Dubrovnik direction | Car ferry (east end) | 35 min |
| Dubrovnik → Hvar Town Summer only, limited sailings | Seasonal catamaran | 3–3.5 hours |
Ferry Crossings
Live SchedulesPowered by our ferry partner · free cancellation on most routes
Ferry Crossings
Live SchedulesPowered by our ferry partner · free cancellation on most routes
On the Island
Car Hire in Stari Grad
If your ferry lands at Stari Grad, collect a car at the port and you're twenty minutes from anywhere that matters. A small car is ideal — the island roads are narrow, and old-town parking is scarce. Book ahead in season; the port fleet is finite.
Compare Car Hire →
A Note on Timing
In July and August, treat the fast catamaran like a flight: book the moment your dates are fixed, and favour morning departures — afternoon sailings take the brunt of the maestral wind. Shoulder season (May–June, September–October) is Hvar at its best: warm sea, open restaurants, and ferries you can book the day before.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Split to Hvar?
The fast passenger catamaran from Split to Hvar Town takes 55–65 minutes and is the most popular route. If you need a car on the island, take the 2-hour car ferry from Split to Stari Grad instead — the passenger catamaran does not carry vehicles.
Should I land at Hvar Town or Stari Grad?
Land at Hvar Town if you're travelling without a car and want to be close to restaurants, the marina and nightlife. Land at Stari Grad if you're bringing a rental car — it's the only Split crossing that takes vehicles, and it puts you closer to the Stari Grad Plain.
Do I need a car on Hvar?
Not if you're basing in Hvar Town and mainly using boats and tours — everything central is walkable. A car becomes worthwhile if you want to explore the Stari Grad Plain, the lavender villages, or the beaches on the south coast at your own pace.
How far in advance should I book the ferry in summer?
For July and August sailings, book at least 2–3 weeks ahead, and choose a morning departure where possible — afternoon crossings run into the maestral wind and see more delays. Shoulder-season sailings (May, June, September, October) can usually be booked the day before.