Stari Grad plain is the best preserved Greek cadastre in the Mediterranean. It was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008. Don't miss to visit it while on the island!
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Stari Grad Plain Hvar

4.5
·91 reviews·Stari Grad, Croatia

A living UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient Greek agricultural plain has preserved its original layout for over 2400 years.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Mild weather, blooming nature

CrowdLow
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Stari Grad plain is the best preserved Greek cadastre in the Mediterranean. It was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008. Don't miss to visit it while on the island!

Stari Grad Plain Hvar

Best Time

Spring mornings

Mild weather, blooming nature

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A living UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient Greek agricultural plain has preserved its original layout for over 2400 years.

4.5
(91 reviews)

"A landscape full of history… beautiful vibes here… and the ancient town picturesque and a cosy atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚲 E-bike Adventure

Rent an e-bike for an easy exploration of the vast Stari Grad Plain. Many paths are accessible and scenic.

☀️ Beat the Summer Heat

If visiting in high summer, explore early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense heat.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Hora/Ager

The Ancient Hora/Ager

Stari Grad Plain

Walk or bike through this 2400-year-old agricultural landscape, a UNESCO site with original Greek divisions.

Purkin Kuk Hill Viewpoint

Purkin Kuk Hill Viewpoint

Stari Grad Plain

Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the UNESCO-protected plain from this scenic vantage point.

Vineyards and Local Produce

Vineyards and Local Produce

Stari Grad Plain

Discover vineyards, olive groves, and rosemary fields, with opportunities for wine tasting and sampling local products.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Ancient Landscape

The Stari Grad Plain is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a living testament to ancient Greek agricultural practices. Explore its original stone walls and fertile fields, still cultivated today. Consider visiting outside peak summer for a more comfortable experience, as temperatures can soar.

Best Ways to Explore

E-biking is a popular and enjoyable way to traverse the plain, especially during warmer months. Walking tours are also a great option. Renting a scooter offers another way to cover more ground and discover hidden gems within this historic landscape.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Mild weather, blooming nature
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Harvest season, pleasant climate
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of the best adventures in Europe is this road trip through the Balkans 🚙 We spent 2 weeks exploring this beautiful region, below is the breakdown of our itinerary👇 Split ➡️ Dubrovnik - 3.5 hrs Dubrovnik ➡️ Kotor - 2 hrs Kotor ➡️ Mostar - 3 hrs Mostar ➡️ Split - 2.5 hrs 📌 SAVE for your next visit to Europe & follow for more road trip inspiration 😍 #roadtripeurope #europeroadtrip #europeroadtrip...
@geniapuma
16.8K likes • 542K views

🚲 E-bike Adventure

Rent an e-bike for an easy exploration of the vast Stari Grad Plain. Many paths are accessible and scenic. Instagram+1

☀️ Beat the Summer Heat

If visiting in high summer, explore early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense heat. Reddit

The best things to do in Hvar, Croatia 🌴🤍 9 of the best things to do on the beautiful Croatian island of Hvar - ✨explore Hvar town with its beautiful old town & harbour 🌊 visit the Pakleni islands 🧡 discover Stari Grad - one of the oldest towns in Europe 🏝️ relax on Dubovika beach 🍽️ eat delicious local food at one of the island’s konobas ☕️ drink great coffee at coffee snob or kvar37 💜 explore t...
@cosinessandadventures
13.6K likes • 546.1K views
Time for some fun facts! Hvar has 6 UNESCO heritages, including 5 intangible ones and Stari Grad Plain, dating back to 384 BC. If your timing is right, you can experience all six at the same time. Sounds pretty unique, right? 🤯 Poje proudly sits amidst the Stari Grad Plain, with some plaques awarded from time to time, but let's face it - everything is pretty much done today as it was back then. ....
poje.hvar
34 likes • 904 views

🍷 Wine Tasting Delights

Many winemakers have vineyards here. Enjoy wine tasting and learn about local varietals. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walking Routes

The plain is perfect for walking. Discover quiet roads and enjoy the historical agricultural landscape. Reddit

the UNESCO-protected Stari Grad plain (hora/ager) as seen from Purkin kuk hill 🥰 #SecretHvar #Hvar #StariGrad #Dalmatia #CentralDalmatia #Croatia #hiking #offroad #adventure #Unesco #Unescoheritage #wine #winetasting #vineyards
secrethvar
43 likes • 712 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚲 E-bike Adventure

Rent an e-bike for an easy exploration of the vast Stari Grad Plain. Many paths are accessible and scenic. Instagram+1

☀️ Beat the Summer Heat

If visiting in high summer, explore early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense heat. Reddit

🍷 Wine Tasting Delights

Many winemakers have vineyards here. Enjoy wine tasting and learn about local varietals. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walking Routes

The plain is perfect for walking. Discover quiet roads and enjoy the historical agricultural landscape. Reddit

🎶 Sunset Concerts

Check for special events like sunset concerts held within the plain for a unique cultural experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(91 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Stari Grad Plain's incredible historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site, praising its well-preserved ancient Greek agricultural landscape. Many highlight e-biking as a fantastic way to explore, enjoying the scenic beauty and local produce. Some note that maintenance could be improved, and visiting outside peak summer is recommended for comfort.

"This is UNESCO World heritage protected site as one of the rare examples of intact agricultural landscape made by Greek colonists when they took this beautiful bay from local population and leaving to them rest of island apparently. I would like more investment (EU funds of course) but even like this is it perfect place for bike or walking tour. You can reach it from Stari Grad and it stretches almost to neighboring beautiful small towns of Jelsa and Vrboska. In spring you can find delicious asparagus here in great quantity. And try to avoid high summer as it can be really hot here if you are not near sea. Fifth star is missing as it should be maintained much better but this is place to see when visiting amazing island of Hvar as it is unique place indeed."

Tonko Lacmanovic

"A landscape full of history… beautiful vibes here… and the ancient town picturesque and a cosy atmosphere"

Friederike Hansen

"E-biking through this beautiful plain was one of my favorite activities in Stari Grad! If you visit in the summer, particularly a hot day, I'd recommend exploring the trails this way. We rented e-bikes from Hvar Life and it was just a short trip down some quiet roads to get to the landscape from there. There's many paths to explore, but if you get hungry Hora Hvar is nearby for you to enjoy some farm-to-table food."

Chantalle Todd

What People Like

UNESCO World Heritage site
Ancient Greek landscape
E-biking exploration

What People Dislike

Needs better maintenance
Can be very hot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Stari Grad Plain by taking a bus or taxi from Hvar Town to Stari Grad. Alternatively, renting a scooter or car allows for more flexibility in exploring the plain and surrounding areas. TikTok

While public transport connects Hvar Town to Stari Grad, direct access to the heart of the plain might require walking or cycling from the town. Buses run between Stari Grad and other nearby towns like Jelsa and Vrboska. Instagram

Yes, driving and cycling are excellent ways to explore the Stari Grad Plain. Many visitors opt for e-bikes or scooters to navigate the area comfortably. Instagram+1

E-biking is highly recommended for exploring the Stari Grad Plain due to its size and relatively flat terrain. Walking is also a great option for shorter distances. InstagramReddit

Yes, several tour operators offer guided bike tours or walking tours that incorporate the Stari Grad Plain, providing historical context and local insights. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Stari Grad Plain is an open agricultural landscape and does not require an entrance ticket. You can explore it freely. Instagram

While entry to the plain itself is free, there may be costs associated with renting bikes, scooters, or participating in guided tours or wine tastings. Reddit

The Stari Grad Plain is accessible at all times, as it is an active agricultural landscape. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

While there isn't a dedicated visitor center solely for the plain, the tourist information offices in Stari Grad can provide maps and guidance for exploring the area. Instagram

The Stari Grad Plain is part of the island of Hvar and can be visited as part of a day trip from Hvar Town, though it's best to allocate sufficient time to truly appreciate it. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The best way to experience its history is by walking or cycling through it, observing the ancient stone walls and the continuity of agriculture. Consider a guided tour for deeper historical context. Instagram+1

Activities include cycling, walking, wine tasting, visiting local farms, and enjoying the scenic landscapes. Some visitors also enjoy birdwatching. Instagram+2

While the plain is primarily agricultural, there are restaurants and konobas (traditional taverns) located in nearby towns like Stari Grad, Vrboska, and Jelsa, some offering farm-to-table experiences. Hora Hvar is a notable farm-to-table option. Reddit

Wear comfortable walking or cycling shoes, light clothing suitable for the weather, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen). Instagram

Absolutely! The plain offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset, with its unique landscape and ancient structures. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The town of Stari Grad itself offers numerous restaurants and konobas. Nearby Vrboska and Jelsa also have excellent dining options, many featuring fresh, local ingredients. InstagramReddit

Yes, Hora Hvar is a well-regarded farm-to-table restaurant located near the plain, offering a true taste of local produce. Reddit

Look for dishes featuring local produce like asparagus (in spring), fresh seafood, olive oil, and traditional Hvar wines. InstagramReddit

Some farms may offer direct sales, especially during harvest seasons. It's worth inquiring locally or at farm stands you encounter. Instagram

While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find scenic spots to enjoy a packed lunch. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the ancient landscape. The golden hour light beautifully highlights the stone walls and fields. Instagram

Look for the ancient stone walls, the patchwork of vineyards and olive groves, and panoramic views from elevated points like Purkin Kuk hill. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in protected areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone over the Stari Grad Plain. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details like vineyards or distant villages. Instagram

Photographing local farmers at work (respectfully), traditional stone houses, and the vibrant colors of the vineyards during harvest season can offer unique cultural insights. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Stari Grad Plain offers a unique educational experience for families. E-biking is a fun and engaging way for older children to explore the landscape, while younger ones might enjoy shorter walks or a scenic drive. The open spaces provide room to roam, and the historical aspect can spark curiosity about ancient civilizations. Instagram+1

Consider packing picnic lunches to enjoy amidst the fields, making it a relaxed and budget-friendly outing. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the sheer novelty of cycling through ancient farmlands can be an adventure in itself. Ensure children have appropriate sun protection and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Instagram

🚴‍♀️ Active Travelers & Cyclists

For active travelers, the Stari Grad Plain is a cyclist's paradise. The relatively flat terrain and network of quiet roads make it ideal for road cycling and e-biking. You can easily spend half a day or more exploring the various paths, discovering charming hamlets, and enjoying the scenic beauty. Instagram+1

Many visitors combine cycling the plain with exploring the nearby coastal towns of Vrboska and Jelsa. For those seeking more challenging routes, there are hilly paths leading to viewpoints like Purkin Kuk. Remember to check your bike's condition and carry a repair kit for longer excursions. Instagram+1

🍷 Wine & Food Enthusiasts

The Stari Grad Plain is a must-visit for anyone interested in Croatian wine and local gastronomy. The region is home to numerous vineyards, offering fantastic opportunities for wine tasting and learning about indigenous grape varietals. InstagramReddit

Beyond wine, explore the local olive oil production and sample other regional specialties. Dining at farm-to-table restaurants like Hora Hvar provides an authentic taste of the plain's bounty. Visiting during harvest season can offer a unique glimpse into the agricultural life of the island. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ancient Greek Legacy

The Stari Grad Plain is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves the ancient Greek system of land division, known as the 'chora' or 'ager'. This agricultural landscape was established by Greek colonists from Paros in the 4th century BCE. The plain is characterized by its original stone walls (dry stone walls) that meticulously divide the land into geometric plots, a system that has been in continuous use for over 2400 years. This incredible preservation makes it one of the best-preserved ancient agricultural landscapes in the Mediterranean. Instagram+1

Visitors can still see the original layout of the fields, which were primarily used for cultivating olives and grapes. The continuity of this agricultural practice is a testament to the enduring legacy of the ancient Greeks. Exploring the plain allows you to step back in time and witness a landscape shaped by millennia of human endeavor. It's a living museum, offering a unique glimpse into ancient land management and its lasting impact. InstagramReddit

Exploring the Plain: E-bikes and Beyond

The most popular and recommended way to explore the Stari Grad Plain is by e-bike. The terrain is relatively flat, and e-bikes make it easy to cover the vast area without getting overly fatigued, especially during warmer months. Many rental shops in Stari Grad offer e-bikes, often with guided routes or suggestions for exploration. Instagram+1

Beyond e-biking, walking is another excellent way to immerse yourself in the plain's tranquility. For those seeking a bit more freedom and speed, renting a scooter is also a viable option. The plain is crisscrossed by quiet roads and paths, making it a joy to navigate. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, especially if you plan an extended exploration. InstagramReddit

Some visitors also enjoy guided tours, which can provide valuable historical context and point out hidden gems. These tours often combine cycling with stops at local wineries or points of interest, offering a comprehensive experience of the plain and its surroundings. Instagram

Local Flavors: Wine, Oil, and More

The Stari Grad Plain is not only historically significant but also a fertile region producing high-quality local products. Vineyards are abundant, and many local winemakers cultivate grapes here, producing excellent Hvar wines. Visitors have the opportunity to visit wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy wine tastings. InstagramReddit

Beyond wine, the plain is also known for its olive groves, yielding delicious olive oil. You might also encounter fields of rosemary and other aromatic herbs, contributing to the region's distinct scents and flavors. Instagram In spring, wild asparagus is a sought-after delicacy found in the plain. Reddit

For a true taste of the land, consider dining at farm-to-table restaurants like Hora Hvar, which source ingredients directly from the surrounding fields. This offers an authentic culinary experience, connecting you directly to the agricultural heritage of the Stari Grad Plain. Reddit

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