Stari Grad is one of those places in Croatia that doesn’t shout with loud attractions or a party vibe; instead, it captivates with its tranquility, history, and authentic Dalmatian atmosphere. Located on the island of Hvar, this town is considered one of the oldest in all of Croatia. Strolling through its stone alleyways, you can feel the spirit of ancient Mediterranean ports, where life moves at a noticeably slower pace than in popular resorts.
Unlike the town of Hvar, which attracts luxury yachts and vibrant nightlife, Stari Grad offers a more intimate, local character. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for a peaceful getaway, good food, and atmospheric walks along the Adriatic. Old stone houses and a small harbor create a unique landscape that is hard to confuse with anywhere else in Croatia.
It’s also a great base for exploring Hvar island. From here, you can easily reach both the beaches and the more famous towns while avoiding the biggest crowds. Stari Grad showcases a more authentic side of the Croatian coast.
Stari Grad – location and getting there
Stari Grad is located in the northern part of Hvar island, one of the most famous islands in the Adriatic. The town sits on a long, well-sheltered bay that has served as a natural harbor for centuries. Because of this, Stari Grad has been an important trade and transport hub since ancient times.
The easiest way to get here is by ferry from Split. The ferry ride to the port in Stari Grad usually takes about two hours and is a great attraction in itself, offering sweeping views of the Dalmatian coast and neighboring islands. You can drive your car right onto the ferry, which is a convenient solution if you plan to explore the entire island of Hvar.
Once on the island, you can get around by car, bus, or scooter. The roads are scenic, though quite narrow and winding in places. From Stari Grad, it’s an easy drive to Hvar town, Jelsa, or the numerous beaches scattered along the coast.
The town itself is best explored on foot. The historical center is compact, and most of the streets have a quintessential Mediterranean charm—they are narrow, paved in stone, and filled with small restaurants, shops, and cafes.
History of the town
The history of Stari Grad dates all the way back to the 4th century BC, when Greek settlers from the island of Paros founded the town of Pharos here. That is precisely why it is considered one of the oldest towns in Croatia. The Greeks recognized the huge potential of the bay and established a key trading hub.
To this day, one of the most significant traces of that era is the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a unique agricultural landscape first laid out by the ancient Greeks. Remarkably, this field system has survived virtually unchanged for over two thousand years.
Over the centuries, the town came under the influence of the Romans, Venetians, and Austro-Hungarians. Each period left its mark on the local architecture and culture. Stari Grad was one of the most important ports in the Adriatic for a long time, though nearby Hvar eventually gained greater prominence.
Despite many historical shifts, the town has preserved its peaceful character and avoided over-commercialization. As a result, a walk through the town center still lets you experience the genuine atmosphere of old Dalmatia.
The biggest surprise for me was learning—from an info board in one of the town’s side streets—about archaeological excavations that uncovered ancient mosaics. They haven’t been preserved on site, but you can view them in photos from the research.
The town today
Today, Stari Grad is a quiet resort and one of the most atmospheric spots on Hvar. It appeals to travelers seeking a more intimate vacation than the bustling town of Hvar. You won’t find massive clubs or high-end beach bars at every turn—instead, charming little konobas (traditional taverns), a peaceful marina, and a local feel await you.
The town’s greatest asset is its atmosphere. The waterfront promenade is ideal for evening strolls, while the old stone alleyways hide cozy restaurants serving local dishes and wines. In the harbor, fishing boats sit side by side with private yachts, painting a classic Mediterranean scene.
I arrived in Stari Grad aboard the More Sailing catamaran. Stari Grad was our overnight stop in the marina, but we still had plenty of time for both an evening and a morning walk around town. The marina provides restrooms and showers, though they are limited, so during peak hours in the summer season, you’ll likely have to wait a bit.
The surrounding area is home to numerous vineyards and olive groves. Wine and olive oil production still play an important role in the local economy, meaning restaurants offer plenty of regional products and traditional Dalmatian cuisine. I decided to try a dish called dalmatinska pašticada—beef slow-cooked in wine, vegetables, and dried fruit, served with small gnocchi-like dumplings that strongly resemble homemade Polish kopytka. The dish was delicious, though in my personal ranking, it came in just behind the squid I had the following day!
Stari Grad is also a fantastic destination for lovers of slow travel. You can simply wander around, watch daily local life unfold, and enjoy the Adriatic views without any rush. Keep in mind that my visit was in May; it’s very likely that the number of visitors increases significantly during peak season.
Is it worth visiting?
Definitely, yes. Stari Grad is one of the most authentic places on the Croatian coast. It delights with its rich history, serenity, and Mediterranean charm that is getting harder to find in the most popular resorts.
It’s a fantastic location for both a quick trip and a longer stay. You can escape the crowds, wander historical streets, sample local wines, and simply soak in the atmosphere of a Dalmatian island. Another major plus is its location—Stari Grad makes an excellent base camp for exploring all of Hvar.
The town will especially appeal to those who appreciate history, a relaxed pace of travel, and authentic experiences. It’s a place that doesn’t need flashy attractions to leave a lasting impression.
What’s nearby?
The area around Stari Grad offers plenty of interesting spots to explore. The most famous destination is, of course, the town of Hvar, renowned for its beautiful promenade, the fortress overlooking the harbor, and its vibrant nightlife. It’s well worth visiting, even if just for a day trip.
Jelsa is another charming spot—a peaceful town with an atmospheric center and lovely local restaurants. The region also features numerous beaches hidden in secluded coves, many of which can only be reached on foot or by boat.
For active travelers, there are cycling and hiking trails leading through the hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Island-hopping cruises around Hvar and day trips to the nearby Pakleni Islands are also popular options.
It’s also worth taking time to visit the aforementioned UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain. It is a extraordinary place not only historically, but also visually—demonstrating how agriculture operated in ancient times and how deeply history remains embedded in the daily lives of the islanders today.
