We admit, as parents of young children, we really don’t enjoy big crowds and heat. That’s why our suggestion is to head to the island with children in late spring and experience Hvar before the tourist season kicks into high gear. The end of May and June are perfect times to visit the island of Hvar with children. Keep in mind that you may need a car to explore all the locations, and you can rent bicycles or quads for slightly older kids on the island.
Why Spring Is Best Time To Visit Hvar With Kids?
In addition to the beautiful beaches, which you might not be ready to explore fully as the sea temperatures rarely reach above 18 degrees Celsius, this guide will take you through numerous activities you can do with children on the island and enjoy the scents of spring under the warm sun. The town of Hvar, the central hub of the island, exudes a special beauty during that time. The tranquility of narrow charming streets adorned with flowers, a town slowly awakening from its deep winter slumber, with the glistening sun reflecting on the wet stone streets. It’s not yet overcrowded with tourists, but it offers everything you can imagine for a memorable family vacation. Explore the historical landmarks on foot, starting from Cathedral of St. Stephen , then visit the Ljenikovac of Hanibal Lucić, and finish with a visit to the Hvar Fortress Španjola. Insider tip: If you have young children or a baby in a stroller, it’s recommended to visit the Fortica Fortress by car instead. From there, you can enjoy an unforgettable view of Hvar harbor, the islet of Galešnik, and the Pakleni Islands.
Tell the children the legend of the 2,700 sunny hours of the island of Hvar and take them to the monastery of the Benedictine nuns who handcraft lace from the delicate threads of agave fruits. A family bike ride is a perfect activity for this time, with temperatures reaching around 20 degrees Celsius and long, sunny days. Continue to the Stari Grad Plain, an ancient agricultural field, and embark on a historical adventure by biking through the heritage that will take you through truly unforgettable landscapes. During the pre-season period, not all agencies will be officially operating, but you can still reach out to them and arrange tours that interest you.
The island of Hvar is known for its gastronomic offerings. In the second half of May, almost all restaurants in the town of Hvar begin their operations, and you can indulge in various dishes prepared with fresh fish and seafood.. Be sure to try the traditional Hvar dish called “gregada” and also treat yourself to lavender ice cream. Children will especially enjoy the legend of the “Stari Grad paprenjak,” a special cookie that you can try in Stari Grad. Make sure to take a leisurely walk along the Fabrika promenade and indulge in the fantastic gelato at L’amore per il gelato ice cream parlor. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy a delicious treat. For those seeking exclusive pastries, there is the newly opened Dolce di Gariful in Hvar, or you can try the Hvar-flavored chocolates at the Gamulin chocolaterie.
Did you know that Vrboska was home to one of the largest salted fish factories in the former Europe? Or how in Hektorović’s Tvrdalj, fish still swim in the centuries-old fishpond located in the middle of the house? Visiting the museums in Hvar is a great idea to fill your day.
Be sure to visit the first children’s concept store opened in Jelsa or one of the many small art galleries in Stari Grad that create authentic island souvenirs and toys for children.
For more detailed information on visiting the island before the start of the season, I suggest delving deeper into the articles on the blog. We always strive to stay up-to-date, but if you have something to add, please feel free to contact us!