St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar
Grand Baroque cathedral with a prominent bell tower, a central landmark on Hvar's main square.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Potentially no entrance fee
St. Stephen's Cathedral Hvar
Best Time
Potentially no entrance fee
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Grand Baroque cathedral with a prominent bell tower, a central landmark on Hvar's main square.
"The imposing building commands the view at the end of the main square, a testament to Hvar's history."
📸 No Photos Inside!
Strict no-photography policy inside. Respect the rules or risk being reprimanded.
💰 Entrance Fee Check
An entrance fee (around 2 Euros) may apply. Check for mass times for potential fee-free entry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baroque Architecture
Exterior
Admire the grand Baroque facade and the impressive 17th-century bell tower dominating Hvar's main square.
Bell Tower Views
Bell Tower
Climb the historic bell tower for panoramic views of Hvar town and the Pakleni Islands.
Interior Grandeur
Interior
Experience the solemn beauty of the cathedral's interior, a place of worship and historical significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits & Entrance Fees
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 No Photos Inside!
Strict no-photography policy inside. Respect the rules or risk being reprimanded.
💰 Entrance Fee Check
An entrance fee (around 2 Euros) may apply. Check for mass times for potential fee-free entry.
🔔 Bell Tower Climb
Climb the bell tower for stunning views of Hvar town.
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible on Hvar's main square, perfect for a quick visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 No Photos Inside!
Strict no-photography policy inside. Respect the rules or risk being reprimanded.
💰 Entrance Fee Check
An entrance fee (around 2 Euros) may apply. Check for mass times for potential fee-free entry.
🔔 Bell Tower Climb
Climb the bell tower for stunning views of Hvar town.
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible on Hvar's main square, perfect for a quick visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Stephen's Cathedral is a visually striking landmark on Hvar's main square, praised for its grand Baroque exterior and bell tower views. However, some visitors are put off by the entrance fee and a strict no-photography policy inside, leading to mixed feelings about its overall value as a tourist attraction.
"In the heart of Hvar, on the main square, this imposing building commands the view at the end. I was disappointed that photos were forbidden. I understand during a Mass it is disrespectful to take pictures, but entering as a tourist, I like to take pix to show friends, especially other Christians, what churches in different countries are like. Other reviews mention paying an entrance fee but we paid nothing on a Sunday evening (7pm) in September."
David L
"Mass times are hard to come by on the web. As of September 2025
Sundays
Cathedral 10:00 and 19:30
Benedictine Convent 07:00
Franciscan Monastery 11:00"
Andrew T
"I gave it only one star because I think that a church should not have an entrance fee in order for you to go in it. I think it is ridiculous to think that you need to pay in able for you to pray on the church. I do admit that the inside of the church was really beautiful and although I do not have any proof of it because there was a sign on the entrance saying that taking of photos and videos inside of the church was forbidden because they claim that it was a holy place but for me it was less holy because I think it is wrong to have an entrance fee on any chuch. I paid for the entrance fee and on my way out, I also donated money. By the way, the reason I have one picture of a section of the inside of the church is I saw another lady tourist taking pictures and no one was reprimanding her so I took a picture of the real reason why people go to the church, it is because of Him, the sole reason why we go to churches. I think He is disappointed with the idea of entrance fees before you can enter the church even if the entrance fee was only 2 Euros. Not to brag but just ro make a point, I donated more than 2 Euros to this church on my way out. That is because I believe that there is no one bigger than Jesus and you can bet that He loves you yeah4x."
jon zapanta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Stephen's Cathedral is located right on the main square (Trg Sv. Stjepana) in the heart of Hvar Town. It's easily walkable from most accommodations in Hvar Town and is a central landmark you can't miss.
Parking in Hvar Town can be challenging. It's best to park in designated public parking areas outside the immediate town center and walk. The cathedral itself is in a pedestrianized area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance fee is often required for tourists, typically around 2 Euros or 10 HKN. However, some visitors report no fee during mass times, especially on Sunday evenings.
Opening hours can vary, especially around mass times. It's advisable to check locally or look for posted signs. Mass times on Sundays are usually around 10:00 AM and 7:30 PM.
No, photography and videography are strictly forbidden inside the cathedral. This is considered a holy place, and visitors are asked to respect this rule.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find Baroque architecture and a solemn atmosphere. While some find it beautiful, others feel there isn't much to see beyond the general church interior, especially if you're not deeply interested in Christian history.
Climbing the bell tower offers fantastic panoramic views of Hvar town, the harbor, and the surrounding islands. Many visitors find this to be a highlight of their visit.
A quick visit to see the exterior and interior (if open and you pay the fee) might take 15-30 minutes. Climbing the bell tower will add more time, depending on queues and how long you spend enjoying the view.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photos are taken from Hvar's main square, capturing the entire facade and the bell tower. The harbor area also offers great vantage points. Remember, no photos are allowed inside.
Drone usage is generally restricted in populated areas and historical sites in Croatia. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone near the cathedral or Hvar Town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Religious Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Many visitors are drawn to the cathedral's imposing presence on the main square, making it a focal point of Hvar Town. The blend of historical layers within its structure tells a story of the island's past. For those interested in religious history and architecture, it's a significant site, though some find the interior less visually stimulating than its exterior grandeur.
Navigating the Visit: Fees and Etiquette
Equally important is the strict no-photography policy inside. This rule is enforced to maintain the sanctity of the place. While some tourists might discreetly take photos, it's generally discouraged and can lead to being asked to leave. Attending a mass is an alternative way to experience the cathedral's interior respectfully, and it may bypass the entrance fee.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit