Plan your trip to Stari Grad on Hvar island. Discover the best beaches, where to park, neighbourhood guides, and driving routes from Central Europe.
Main beach type
Pebble and concrete terraces with pine shade
Stari Grad appeals to travellers seeking a relaxed, historic base on Hvar island. As one of the oldest towns in Europe, it features a pedestrianised centre with stone streets, traditional restaurants, and a long harbour flanked by pine-shaded pebble beaches. The atmosphere is considerably quieter than Hvar Town, making it well-suited for families, couples, and those focusing on slow travel or exploring the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain.
The prime visiting window runs from May to September. July and August deliver the hottest weather and optimal swimming conditions, though they are also the busiest and most expensive months. June and September offer pleasant temperatures in the low to mid-20s, fewer crowds, and warm sea water, while still ensuring most local businesses remain open.
The atmospheric, car-free centre of the town. It features narrow cobblestone streets, traditional konobas, and ancient sites like Tvrdalj Castle.
A residential stretch along the northern side of the bay. It offers easy walking access to both the old town and the water.
A green, peaceful area on the southern edge of the harbour. Visitors stay here for the dense pine forest shade and sunset views over the Adriatic.
Tiny, rustic hamlets located a few kilometres outside the town. They provide complete tranquillity among olive groves and traditional stone houses.
By car: 860 km, 10-11 hours to Split via A8, A10, and A1. Requires Austrian and Slovenian vignettes, plus Croatian tolls, then a 2-hour ferry.
Other options: Flight to Split (SPU), then bus or taxi to port and ferry.
By car: 760 km, 8-9 hours to Split via A2, A9, and Croatian A1. Requires Austrian and Slovenian vignettes, plus Croatian tolls, then a 2-hour ferry.
Other options: Direct flight or Flixbus to Split, followed by the ferry.
By car: 750 km, 7-8 hours to Split via M7 and Croatian A4/A1. Requires Hungarian e-vignette and Croatian tolls, then a 2-hour ferry.
Other options: Direct sleeper train or flight to Split, then ferry.
By car: 470 km, 5-6 hours to Split via A1/A2 and Croatian A1. Requires Slovenian vignette and Croatian tolls, then a 2-hour ferry.
Other options: Bus or train to Split, followed by the car ferry.
By car: 1050 km, 11-13 hours to Split via Vienna or Linz. Requires Austrian, Slovenian, and Czech vignettes, Croatian tolls, then a 2-hour ferry.
Other options: Direct summer flight to Split (SPU), then ferry.
By car: 1050 km, 11-13 hours to Split via Slovakia and Hungary. Requires Slovak and Hungarian vignettes, Croatian tolls, then a 2-hour ferry.
Other options: Flight (LOT or Ryanair) to Split, followed by the ferry.
May marks the beginning of the tourist season, with mild weather and lower prices, though the sea is often too cold for swimming. June brings warmer sea temperatures reaching 22°C, manageable crowds, and fully operational restaurants and ferries. July and August are the peak months; expect sea temperatures around 25°C to 27°C, the highest accommodation prices, and busy beaches. September is a strong shoulder month, retaining warm seas and open facilities but with noticeably smaller crowds and reduced rates. From October to April, Stari Grad enters its off-season; the majority of hotels and restaurants close, sea temperatures drop below 18°C, and the town returns to a quiet, local pace.
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Stari Grad with Toddlers: 2027 Family Travel GuideStari Grad is worth visiting for its 2,400-year history and relaxed pace. It provides an authentic, quiet alternative to the bustling party scene of Hvar Town.
Allow two to three days to explore the town and relax on the local beaches. If you are using it as a base to explore the rest of Hvar island, a stay of five to seven days is ideal.
Lanterna is highly regarded for its natural pine shade and pebble shores. Bonj is the most accessible from the centre, while numerous rocky coves can be reached by a short walk.
A car is not necessary for staying within Stari Grad, as the town centre and nearby beaches are walkable. However, renting a car or scooter is recommended if you plan to visit the island's southern beaches or hidden villages.
The old town is a strict pedestrian zone, so visitors must park in designated municipal lots on the outskirts. The main public parking areas are located near the town entrances and the ferry port, requiring a daily fee during summer.
Yes, it is an excellent destination for families. The flat waterfront promenade, calm bay waters, and abundance of natural beach shade make it safe and comfortable for children.
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