Hvar is often referred to as the lovliest Dalmatian island and perhaps because it is the sunniest place in Croatia may have something to do with this. To add to Hvar's beauty there is an abundance of wild flowers such as lavender, rosemary and heather whose perfume adds something special to the island's atmosphere. Hvar Town is a small, charming harbour town set against a backdrop of steep hills with plenty of interesting Mediaeval buildings. Important sights in the town include the Renaissance Cathedral of St Stephen's, the Gothic Arsenal and the Venetian fortress at the top of the hill within whose walls the islanders fled for sanctuary during the invasion of the Turks in 1571. The view from the fortress offers a truly magical Mediterranean sunset.

Other places of interst on Hvar worth a visit include "Hell's Islands" (Pakleni Otoci) which has the best sandy beaches; Stari Grad, once the island's capital, also has many fine historic buildings and a picturesque harbour. Hvar hosts a summer long festival of the arts with contributions from professinal actors and musicians as well as many a fine performance from a host of local amateurs. Hvar Town is also famous for attracting the rich and famous to its harbour bars and restaurants.

Hvar can be chosen as a destination for a relaxing holiday in its own right and is also very popular as the island to include on a fly-drive holiday of Croatia. The latter is attributed to both its fame and its ease of travel connections to integrate it into a fly-drive itinerary. As well as enjoying the atmosphere of Hvar Town we recommend you consider a drive to the quiet southern shores of the island to visit the deserted coves and beaches.

The Palace hotel is the oldest hotel in Hvar, the hotel is located overlooking the harbour and is close ideally situated for exploring Hvar town. The hotel offers breathtaking views of the bay and the Paklleski islands.