Stari Grad Old Town
Step back in time in Stari Grad Old Town, Croatia's oldest town, a UNESCO gem with ancient Greek roots and timeless charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Stari Grad Old Town
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Stari Grad Old Town, Croatia's oldest town, a UNESCO gem with ancient Greek roots and timeless charm.
"A truly magical place, like stepping into a living history book!"
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring the entire Stari Grad Old Town.
🚌 Bus to Other Towns
Use the local bus for easy travel between Stari Grad, Hvar Town, and Jelsa. Check timetables in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tvrdalj Castle
Center of Stari Grad
Petar Hektorović's fortified villa, a unique Renaissance masterpiece with a fascinating fishpond.
Stari Grad Plain
Surrounding Stari Grad
Ancient Greek agricultural landscape, a UNESCO site with stone walls and olive groves dating back millennia.
Dominican Monastery
Stari Grad waterfront
A serene complex housing a museum with valuable art and artifacts, offering a glimpse into local history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Stari Grad's Charm
Getting to Stari Grad
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Getting from Hvar town to Stari Grad or vice versa, also few guides for first time visitors
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring the entire Stari Grad Old Town.
🚌 Bus to Other Towns
Use the local bus for easy travel between Stari Grad, Hvar Town, and Jelsa. Check timetables in advance.
A back alley somewhere in Stari Grad, Croatia
Hvar and where to stay
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon in summer to avoid the midday sun and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)
Wander through the narrow alleys; that's where the real magic of Stari Grad Old Town unfolds.
Itinerary Recommendations - Hvar Croatia
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring the entire Stari Grad Old Town.
🚌 Bus to Other Towns
Use the local bus for easy travel between Stari Grad, Hvar Town, and Jelsa. Check timetables in advance.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon in summer to avoid the midday sun and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)
Wander through the narrow alleys; that's where the real magic of Stari Grad Old Town unfolds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Stari Grad Old Town for its authentic charm, historical depth, and peaceful atmosphere, especially compared to busier Hvar Town. The well-preserved ancient Greek layout and the beauty of the Stari Grad Plain are major highlights. Some find it quieter than expected, which can be a positive or negative depending on preference.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by bus. The Cazmatrans bus service connects Hvar Town to Stari Grad. You can find the latest timetable online. The journey is scenic and takes about 30-40 minutes.
Yes, ferries from Split dock at the Stari Grad port. From the port, it's a short walk or a quick bus ride into the heart of the old town.
Driving directly into the old town is restricted due to its historic nature. Parking is available on the outskirts, and it's best to explore the old town on foot.
Buses are efficient for inter-town travel on Hvar. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. Renting a scooter or car offers more flexibility for exploring the island.
The Stari Grad ferry port is conveniently located very close to the old town. You can easily walk into the historic center within minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Stari Grad Old Town itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander its streets and squares.
Some specific attractions like Tvrdalj Castle and the Dominican Monastery may have small entrance fees for their museums or specific exhibits.
Opening hours for Tvrdalj Castle can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official local tourism website or inquire upon arrival for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, guided tours of Stari Grad Old Town and the Stari Grad Plain can often be booked in advance through local tour operators or online platforms.
While not always advertised, sometimes local guides offer informal free walking tours. It's worth asking at the local tourist information center.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charming narrow alleys, the waterfront promenade, Tvrdalj Castle's courtyard, and the ancient stone walls of the Stari Grad Plain. Golden hour offers magical light.
Drone usage is often restricted in historic town centers and UNESCO sites to preserve the atmosphere and for safety. Always check local regulations before flying.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and crowds.
Photography policies vary. Generally, photos without flash are allowed in public areas, but check signage or ask staff before taking pictures inside museums or churches.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for street scenes and architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive Stari Grad Plain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more active adventure, renting bikes to explore the Stari Grad Plain is a fantastic option. The flat terrain and ancient stone walls provide an engaging backdrop for a family bike ride. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and plan for breaks in shaded areas, especially during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Don't hesitate to join a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history and culture, or simply wander through the charming alleys, stopping at local cafes for a coffee or a glass of wine. The Dominican Monastery offers a quiet space for reflection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Stari Grad Plain
To truly appreciate the plain, consider renting a bicycle or joining a guided tour. Cycling allows you to meander through the ancient stone walls and discover hidden corners at your own pace. Many tours also include wine or olive oil tastings, offering a delicious way to connect with the land's heritage. The sheer scale and preservation of this agricultural landscape are awe-inspiring, offering a unique glimpse into human history and its enduring relationship with the environment.
When exploring the plain, remember it's an active agricultural area. Be respectful of the land and any crops you encounter. The best times to visit are during the cooler parts of the day, especially in spring and autumn, when the light is beautiful and the temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities.
A Glimpse into History: Tvrdalj Castle
Visitors can explore the castle's courtyard, admire the architectural details, and learn about Hektorović's life and work. The fishpond, though no longer stocked, remains a central feature, evoking the atmosphere of the poet's time. The inscriptions carved into the stone walls, often featuring moralistic sayings, add another layer of historical and philosophical depth to the experience.
Tvrdalj Castle offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of the old town. It's a place where history, literature, and architecture converge, providing a fascinating insight into the life of a prominent Croatian Renaissance figure. Allow ample time to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the unique design of this historic residence.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit