Vrboska Guide

A stone bridge, a quiet inlet and Hvar's greener, slower side

42 selected

Vrboska Guide42 spotsHvar, HR

Last updated: Sep 25, 2026

Curated by Shlau

Explore by category

Browse hotels, restaurants, and more in this guide

Vrboska sits on the north coast of Hvar, an island off the coast of Croatia, tucked into a deep, narrow bay surrounded by pine forest, vineyards and olive groves. Walk to the middle of its old stone bridge and you'll understand why people call it pretty: fishing boats bob on the narrow inlet below, stone houses lean toward the water on both sides, and the pines close in behind them.

What makes Vrboska feel different is how far it sits from the bustle of Hvar Town. There's no strip of bars competing for your attention here, just quays where boats are tied up for the night and locals who nod as you pass. Evenings are slow: you'll find yourself lingering by the water long after dinner, watching the light change over the inlet.

Just outside the village, the Soline peninsula hides some of the nicest pebble and shingle beaches on this side of Hvar. Head for beach Jagodna if you want clear water and a view worth lingering over, or Žukova Beach in the quiet Rudina area for a calmer stretch of pebbles backed by pine shade. Pack a picnic and plan to stay the whole afternoon, since neither spot rushes you along.

When you want another dip, Plaža "Mina" offers calm water and open sea views that are easy to enjoy for hours, while Plaža Ivan Dolac rewards the extra trip with some of the clearest water around Hvar. Once you've had enough salt on your skin, it's time to turn inland.

Vrboska lies on the north-eastern edge of the UNESCO-protected Stari Grad Plain, and beyond the last houses you'll find vineyards and old stone walls stretching toward the hills. For a bigger day out, follow the two-hour hike from the village of Dol up to the summit of Sv Nikola, where the view stretches to Korčula, Lastovo, the Pelješac peninsula and, on a clear day, the coast of Italy. Start early if you're doing this in summer, before the heat sets in.

Back in the village, check what's on at Vrboska Otok Hvar, which runs art exhibitions, children's workshops and free tours through the season. For a base, B&B Heritage Villa Apolon puts you inside a historic villa with real local character, while Hotel Hvar sits right in Vrboska with its own coastal views. However you plan your days, Vrboska rewards the kind of traveler happy to slow down.

Fishermen, Fortress Churches and a Titian in Vrboska

Vrboska grew from a 15th-century fishing harbour into a village whose churches, fields and even its own name still carry traces of raids, faith and farming. Vrboska was founded in the 15th century as a fishing harbour, back when these waters were quieter than they look today. Its name may come from the Latin verboscam, meaning forested, a fitting nod to the pine woods that still wrap around the bay. Peace didn't last: Venetian troops attacked the settlement in 1510, and Turkish forces returned in 1571. Four years later, in 1575, the Church of St. Mary was fortified into a church-fortress, the only structure of its kind anywhere in the Croatian archipelago. Walk around the outside first, before you step in, and you can still read the defensive walls in the stonework. The parish church of St. Lovrinac, the village's patron saint, was built in that same year of 1571 and restored again in the 17th century; inside hang paintings attributed to Venetian masters including Titian and Bassano. Older still is the church of St. Peter, built before the 14th century between the boundaries of Pitve and Vrbanj and first mentioned in a document from 1331, making it one of the oldest religious buildings on the whole island. Vrboska is also part of the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has barely changed since Greek colonists began cultivating it back in the 4th century BCE, and an ancient Villa Rustica still stands in the immediate vicinity. Combine the two on one cool morning, on foot or by bike, and you'll cover centuries of history before lunch.

Seafood by the Canal and Wine from Vrboska's Vineyards

Vrboska eats from the sea first, so fresh fish and seafood dominate the menus at its waterside konobas, followed by good coffee and a glass of local wine. In the early 20th century the village ran a sardine factory alongside a wooden boat-building industry, and that sea-first habit never really left the table. Konoba Vrisnik carries the tradition today, serving fresh seafood and local specialities in a warm, unpretentious room right in the heart of the village. A short walk finds you more options: Restoran Ruzmarin draws locals as much as visitors with its seafood and local dishes, while Bonaca Vrboska keeps things simple and central under a name that borrows the village's own. GARDELIN Restoran Luka is a good pick for an evening of regional flavours, and Trica Gardelin sets its seafood and vegetable dishes on a terrace with a proper sea view. Ask for a terrace table there if you're eating around sunset. Inland a short stretch, Vina Tomić is worth building an afternoon around. Winemaker Andro Tomić continues a 150-year family tradition, working native Hvar grape varieties with organic farming methods, and the tasting programme runs in a genuinely atmospheric cellar. Plan a tasting for late afternoon, then walk down toward the water for dinner. Coffee culture fills the gaps between meals. Start the day at Kojo for freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries, swing by Corni Petar for a snack, or settle into Caffe bar Tranquilo when you want a slow morning or an unhurried afternoon. Caffe bar Pjaca is made for watching village life go by, and CAFFE BAR DALMATINO is where you end up for a drink with friends once the sun goes down.

Getting to Vrboska: Ferry from Split, Then Bus, Taxi or Car

Vrboska is easiest to reach by taking a boat from Split to Hvar and then continuing by bus, taxi or car across the island to the village's inlet. The ferry port of Split is the main gateway to the island, with Jadrolinija catamarans and ferries sailing across to Hvar Town and Stari Grad. Neither service sails straight into Vrboska's own inlet, so decide in advance which of the two towns you'll land in, since that choice sets the shape of your onward ride to Vrboska. It wasn't always this way. In the early 20th century Vrboska had its own regular boat connections with Split and with the neighbouring island of Brač, a direct link the village doesn't have today, which makes the modern two-step journey feel a little roundabout by comparison. From either port town, regular buses run between Hvar Town, Stari Grad and Vrboska, so public transport covers the last leg easily without much planning. If you land in Hvar Town late in the day or loaded down with bags, Taxi Hvar Center runs rides straight through to Vrboska instead, which is worth booking ahead in high season. Driving works well too. Vrboska sits within the Jelsa Council region, and from Jelsa you follow the main island road before turning onto a side road that leads through Vitarnja and into the village. Watch for signs to Vitarnja once you leave the main road, since that's the turn you want, and give yourself a little extra time if you're new to the route.

Bikes, Boats and Scooters: Getting Around Vrboska

Vrboska is small enough to cross on foot, while bikes, scooters, boats and cars from local rental firms carry you out to the coves and across the flat plain. The village centres on its canal, where fishing boats come and go all day, and following the water from the bridge is really all the navigation you need on foot. Even staying outside the centre works without a car: Senses Resort sits in a pine-ringed cove and is only a 15-minute walk from the middle of Vrboska. The flat terrain of the surrounding Stari Grad Plain makes cycling an easy, pleasant way to cover more ground. hvar life rents bikes and builds tours for riders of every level, from first-timers to serious cyclists. Ride out through the vineyards in the morning and plan to be back by the water before the midday heat sets in. For something with a motor, KGM Rent A Car Quad Scooter Boat Bicycle Buggy Sup has been a family business in Vrboska since 1992, renting cars, scooters, quads, bicycles and boats with both new and budget-friendly options on offer. If you arrive through Stari Grad instead, Park scooter there lets you pick up a scooter and ride straight over to Vrboska. For the coves you can't reach by road, go by water. Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike rents out boats alongside its cars, scooters and bikes, and a day on one is the easiest way to hop between hidden beaches. Book a boat for a full day if hidden coves are what you're after.

Money Matters in Vrboska: Prices, Fees and Remote Work

Vrboska isn't an expensive stop by Hvar standards, but it helps to know what boats, rentals and medical visits cost before you arrive and what your options are if you want to work while you're there. Use a one-way catamaran between Split and Hvar as your price benchmark: it costs €25, or around US$27, and gives you a sense of what island travel runs to more generally. Prices around Vrboska tend to sit in a similar, reasonable range. Renting a vehicle rarely brings surprises here. Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike takes bookings with no deposit required, while KGM Rent A Car Quad Scooter Boat Bicycle Buggy Sup offers both new and budget-friendly vehicles. Compare the two before committing to a week-long rental. If you need a doctor, consultation fees apply at the general practice in Jelsa. Emergency care is free for visitors from countries that signed the Health Care Convention, while visitors from other countries may be charged at the current Croatian tariff. Check your travel insurance before you go, just in case. Thinking about staying longer and working from here? Croatia introduced a Digital Nomads' visa in 2021, with the first one issued on 26 January that year, opening the door to longer stays for remote workers who fall in love with the pace of island life.

When to Go to Vrboska and What to Know Before You Arrive

Vrboska is at its best in spring and autumn, when Hvar is calmer and cheaper than the peak summer months, and the island backs that up with some of the sunniest weather in Croatia. A few formalities and the health services in nearby Jelsa are worth knowing before you land. Aim for spring or autumn if quiet coves matter more to you than a lively crowd. How warm does it get in Vrboska? Hvar has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, with July averaging around 24.9°C and January around 8.3°C. Will it rain during my stay? Yearly rainfall on Hvar runs between 500 and 750 mm, falling mostly in winter, while summers stay largely dry. A light layer is enough for cooler evenings in winter or early spring. Do I need to register my stay or get a visa? You're required to register your stay and pay the visitor's tax using a valid passport or EU identity card; ask your host if you're unsure how this works. Many visitors can stay in Croatia for up to three months without a visa, though longer stays call for an application to the police in Hvar. What if I need a doctor or an ambulance? The emergency health centre in Jelsa, sharing a building with the general practice at the western edge of town in the Pelinje area, runs 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Call 112 for EU standard emergency services, or 194 for an ambulance from a Croatian phone. Where do I find a pharmacy or parking near the health centre? The Jelsa Pharmacy sits on the main street leading into Jelsa, opposite the entrance to the main car park. Parking at the Health Centre itself is free, with the top level kept for A&E and the lower level for general use.

FAQ

1 / 9

What is covered in the Vrboska guide?

Discover Vrboska, a quiet fishing village on Hvar with a stone bridge, pine-backed coves, historic churches and a family winery to explore and plan around. It includes 42 recommendations across 6 hotels, 5 cafes, 5 restaurants, 2 beaches, 4 places, 1 taxis, 4 car rentals, 3 camping spots, 2 bike rentals, 10 creator picks.

2 / 9

How many places are in the Vrboska guide?

The Vrboska guide lists 42 places: 6 hotels, 5 cafes, 5 restaurants, 2 beaches, 4 places, 1 taxis, 4 car rentals, 3 camping spots, 2 bike rentals, 10 creator picks.

3 / 9

Where is Vrboska?

Vrboska is in Hvar, HR (43.1817, 16.6712).

4 / 9

How do you get to Vrboska?

5 / 9

What should you eat in Vrboska?

6 / 9

Are there beaches in Vrboska?

Yes — this guide lists 2 beach spots for Vrboska.

7 / 9

Is there camping in Vrboska?

This guide lists 3 camping options with maps and short notes.

8 / 9

Can you rent a bike in Vrboska?

This guide lists 2 bike rental options.

9 / 9

What are recommended hotels in Vrboska?

Highlighted hotels in the Vrboska guide: B&B Heritage Villa Apolon (4.7/5, 139 reviews); Hvar Places Hotel by Valamar (4.6/5, 2677 reviews); Senses Resort (4.3/5, 1784 reviews).

Kojo (4.9/5) — Kojo serves freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries in a cosy corner of Vrboska, rated 4.9/5.
Taxi Hvar Center (4.9/5) — Taxi Hvar Center runs from Hvar Town out to Vrboska, rated 4.9/5, and is a straightforward option after the ferry.
KGM Rent A Car Quad Scooter Boat Bicycle Buggy Sup (4.9/5) — This family-run rental business in Vrboska has offered cars, scooters, quads, bicycles and boats since 1992.
Park scooter (4.9/5) — Park scooter, based in Stari Grad and rated 4.9/5, is a handy pickup point before riding over to Vrboska.
Konoba Vrisnik (4.8/5) — This konoba in central Vrboska is known for fresh seafood and local specialities served in a warm, welcoming room.

Explore on the map

Tap a pin to highlight its place card

All

32 spots

Recommended places

Hotels

6 · 6 selected · View all Hotels

B&B Heritage Villa Apolon
4.7(139 reviews)
This bed and breakfast places you inside a historic villa in Vrboska, a good base for exploring the local culture nearby.
Open in Maps
Hvar Places Hotel by Valamar
4.6(2677 reviews)
Just steps from a pine-shaded pebble beach and a short stroll from historic Stari Grad, this hotel suits travelers who want sun and comfort together.
Open in Maps
Senses Resort
4.3(1784 reviews)
Aminess Senses Hvar Resort sits in a quiet cove near Vrboska, a stone's throw from a natural beach and about a 15-minute walk from the village centre.
Open in Maps
Arkada Hotel
4.1(1963 reviews)
Set in one of Hvar's calmest corners, Arkada Hotel is a short walk from the historic center of Stari Grad with spacious rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
Open in Maps
Hotel Hvar
4.1(1410 reviews)
This hotel in Vrboska offers comfortable rooms in a charming setting with coastal views close by.
Open in Maps
Resort Fontana
3.9(1106 reviews)
Fontana Resort pairs several accommodation options with a restaurant and pool bar that both look out over fine views.
Open in Maps

Cafes

5 · 5 selected · View all Cafes

Kojo
4.9(424 reviews)
Kojo serves freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries in a cosy corner of Vrboska, rated 4.9/5.
Open in Maps
Corni Petar
4.8(341 reviews)
Corni Petar offers coffee and tasty snacks from a cosy spot in the heart of Vrboska.
Open in Maps
Caffe bar Tranquilo
4.8(236 reviews)
True to its name, Caffe bar Tranquilo is a calm spot for a slow morning or a relaxed afternoon in Vrboska.
Open in Maps
Caffe bar Pjaca
4.8(166 reviews)
Caffe bar Pjaca sits in the heart of Vrboska, a good spot for drinks while you watch village life go by.
Open in Maps
CAFFE BAR DALMATINO
4.7(306 reviews)
CAFFE BAR DALMATINO offers a warm atmosphere and friendly service in central Vrboska, rated 4.7/5.
Open in Maps

Restaurants

5 · 5 selected · View all Restaurants

Konoba Vrisnik
4.8(1224 reviews)
This konoba in central Vrboska is known for fresh seafood and local specialities served in a warm, welcoming room.
Open in Maps
Trica Gardelin
4.8(1088 reviews)
Fresh seafood and vegetable dishes come together on Trica Gardelin's terrace, where the sea view is as much the draw as the food.
Open in Maps
GARDELIN Restoran Luka
4.8(733 reviews)
GARDELIN Restoran Luka focuses on fresh seafood and local cuisine, with warm service that makes for an easy evening out.
Open in Maps
Bonaca Vrboska
4.8(686 reviews)
Bonaca Vrboska serves fresh seafood and local flavours from a central spot, rated 4.8/5 by its guests.
Open in Maps
Restoran Ruzmarin
4.8(542 reviews)
Restoran Ruzmarin serves seafood and local dishes from a central spot that draws locals as much as visitors, rated 4.8/5.
Open in Maps

Beaches

2 · 2 selected · View all Beaches

Žukova Beach
4.7(326 reviews)
Žukova Beach, in the quiet Rudina area of Vrboska, is rated 4.7/5 for its tranquil, natural setting.
Open in Maps
beach Jagodna
4.7(316 reviews)
beach Jagodna, rated 4.7/5, is known for stunning views and crystal-clear water near Vrboska.
Open in Maps

Places

4 · 4 selected · View all Places

Vrboska Otok Hvar
4.7(2991 reviews)
Vrboska Otok Hvar runs a season of local events, from art exhibitions to children's workshops and free tours.
Open in Maps
Vina Tomić
4.7(248 reviews)
Vina Tomić, in Vrboska, is known for smooth wines made from native Hvar grapes under winemaker Andro Tomić.
Open in Maps
Plaža Ivan Dolac
4.6(737 reviews)
Plaža Ivan Dolac, rated 4.6/5, is loved for its crystal-clear water and natural surroundings in the Vrboska area.
Open in Maps
Plaža "Mina"
4.6(249 reviews)
Plaža "Mina" offers a tranquil atmosphere and open sea views, rated 4.6/5, in the Vrboska area.
Open in Maps

Taxis

1 · 1 selected · View all Taxis

Taxi Hvar Center
4.9(114 reviews)
Taxi Hvar Center runs from Hvar Town out to Vrboska, rated 4.9/5, and is a straightforward option after the ferry.
Open in Maps

Car Rentals

4 · 4 selected · View all Car Rentals

KGM Rent A Car Quad Scooter Boat Bicycle Buggy Sup
4.9(162 reviews)
This family-run rental business in Vrboska has offered cars, scooters, quads, bicycles and boats since 1992.
Open in Maps
Park scooter
4.9(145 reviews)
Park scooter, based in Stari Grad and rated 4.9/5, is a handy pickup point before riding over to Vrboska.
Open in Maps
Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike
4.7(243 reviews)
Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike covers cars, scooters, bikes and boats, with no deposit required on bookings.
Open in Maps
hvar life
4.7(155 reviews)
hvar life rents bikes and runs tours suited to both first-time and experienced riders exploring around Vrboska.
Open in Maps

Camping

3 · 3 selected · View all Camping

camp Holiday
4.7(470 reviews)
Nestled in the heart of Hvar Island, near the charming town of Jelsa, Camp Holiday offers an ideal retreat for nature lovers. With beachfront tents and luxury glamping options, guests can enjoy breathtaking natural views alongside modern comforts.
Open in Maps
LILI- camp and apartments
4.5(307 reviews)
Camp Lili is a small family campsite located in a beautiful bay Jagodna on the south side of Hvar Island. Surrounded by pine trees and featuring two lovely pebble beaches, it’s an ideal spot for those who enjoy a calm and peaceful natural setting. If you're looking for a place to unwind and recharge, look no further!
Open in Maps
Kamp Grebišće
4.4(622 reviews)
Campsite Grebišće, established in 1979, is the first family-owned campsite on the island of Hvar. Surrounded by olive, pine, and citrus trees, it offers a serene holiday experience. With two distinct sandy beaches, guests can enjoy nature while relaxing in comfort with their families.
Open in Maps

Bike Rentals

2 · 2 selected · View all Bike Rentals

Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike
4.7(243 reviews)
Basetina Rent offers the best options for renting cars, scooters, bikes, and boats in Vrboska. It's the perfect experience for exploring the hidden beaches and stunning bays of Hvar Island. The booking process is incredibly simple and fast, with no deposit required.
Open in Maps
hvar life
4.7(155 reviews)
Bike rentals in Vrboska offer a fantastic way to explore Hvar Island. Hvar Life provides tours suitable for all cycling levels. Massimo and his team ensure you have plenty of opportunities to refill your water bottles, keeping you refreshed during your ride.
Open in Maps

Creator picks

10 · 10 selected

Instagram
Discover Croatia's Coastal Paradise
3.1(15725 reviews)
Croatia's stunning beaches and historic towns are a must-visit for every traveler. Enjoy the refreshing waters of the Adriatic Sea and immerse yourself in vibrant local culture.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Night in Vrboska: A Sailing Adventure
0.6(2936 reviews)
Spending a night in Vrboska on a sailing boat offers an unforgettable experience for sea lovers. Enjoy the beauty of this charming town and embrace a life intertwined with the ocean.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Sailing Adventures in Croatia
0.5(2743 reviews)
Experience unforgettable moments sailing through Croatia's stunning islands. It's the perfect route for an adventure-filled vacation!
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Escape to Paradise: Celebrating Life and Friendship in Hvar
0.5(2708 reviews)
Hvar is the perfect destination to celebrate life and friendship after a challenging year. This resort offers a blend of relaxation and vibrant experiences.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Recharge in Beautiful Hvar
0.2(1213 reviews)
Hvar is the perfect getaway for travelers seeking sun-soaked beaches and relaxation. Recharge your spirit in this stunning destination.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Island Hopping Adventure in Croatia
0.1(694 reviews)
Experience the beauty of Croatia's islands while making new friends and unforgettable memories. This adventure is perfect for those seeking fun and exploration!
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Explore Europe: Island Adventures on a Scooter
0.1(495 reviews)
Rent a scooter on a beautiful island to uncover hidden gems away from the typical tourist spots. This adventure is perfect for travelers seeking unique experiences in Europe.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Windsurfing Lessons: For All Skill Levels!
0.1(464 reviews)
Learn windsurfing at Bota Windsurfing Center! It's the perfect opportunity for beginners and experienced surfers alike to enhance their skills.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Savor Life on the Adriatic Sea!
0.1(431 reviews)
Cruising the Adriatic offers a delightful blend of Mediterranean cuisine and vibrant coastal vibes. It's an unforgettable experience filled with sun, sea, and great company.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Vacation by the Sea with a Shiba
1.0(200 reviews)
Get ready for unforgettable moments by the sea with your Shiba. This vacation offers a delightful experience for both you and your furry friend.
Open on Instagram

Browse nearby destinations

Save these places to your list

Copy the spots you picked into your list — maps and notes included.

Vrboska Guide

Explore by category

Overview42 spots · guide notesOpen overview

Explore on the map

Recommended places

Hotels

B&B Heritage Villa Apolon

B&B Heritage Villa Apolon

Hvar Places Hotel by Valamar

Hvar Places Hotel by Valamar

Senses Resort

Senses Resort

Arkada Hotel

Arkada Hotel

Hotel Hvar

Hotel Hvar

Resort Fontana

Resort Fontana

Cafes

Kojo

Kojo

Corni Petar

Corni Petar

Caffe bar Tranquilo

Caffe bar Tranquilo

Caffe bar Pjaca

Caffe bar Pjaca

CAFFE BAR DALMATINO

CAFFE BAR DALMATINO

Restaurants

Konoba Vrisnik

Konoba Vrisnik

Trica Gardelin

Trica Gardelin

GARDELIN Restoran Luka

GARDELIN Restoran Luka

Bonaca Vrboska

Bonaca Vrboska

Restoran Ruzmarin

Restoran Ruzmarin

Beaches

Žukova Beach

Žukova Beach

beach Jagodna

beach Jagodna

Places

Vrboska Otok Hvar

Vrboska Otok Hvar

Vina Tomić

Vina Tomić

Plaža Ivan Dolac

Plaža Ivan Dolac

Plaža "Mina"

Plaža "Mina"

Taxis

Taxi Hvar Center

Taxi Hvar Center

Car Rentals

KGM Rent A Car Quad Scooter Boat Bicycle Buggy Sup

KGM Rent A Car Quad Scooter Boat Bicycle Buggy Sup

Park scooter

Park scooter

Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike

Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike

hvar life

hvar life

Camping

camp Holiday

camp Holiday

LILI- camp and apartments

LILI- camp and apartments

Kamp Grebišće

Kamp Grebišće

Bike Rentals

Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike

Basetina rent a Boat, Car, Scooter, Quad & Bike

hvar life

hvar life

Creator picks

Discover Croatia's Coastal Paradise