Cruise port Stari Grad (Hvar Island)
Info for port Stari Grad (Hvar Island) on 4 Jul 2026
Port information & tips for Stari Grad (Hvar Island)
Stari Grad is one of the oldest and most charming destinations on the Croatian Adriatic coast on the island of Hvar. The historic town impresses with its authentic atmosphere, narrow stone alleys, and the azure water of the deep-cut bay. Visitors can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Stari Grad Plain as well as the impressive Tvrdalj Castle of the poet Petar Hektorović, while enjoying the Mediterranean flair on Stephansplatz. Cruise ships dock at the Trajektna luka Stari Grad terminal, which is located about two kilometers from the historic city center and offers a convenient connection thanks to a picturesque waterfront promenade and regular shuttle services.
The port of Stari Grad on the picturesque island of Hvar is an important hub for travelers and cruise passengers, easily accessible thanks to well-organized ferry connections and transfers. Since it is an island port, the final leg of the journey always takes place by ferry from the mainland, usually via Split.
Airplane
The nearest international airport is Split (SPU) on the Croatian mainland, which is served by direct flights from numerous German, Austrian, and Swiss cities. From Split Airport, you can easily reach the Split ferry port, located about 25 kilometers away, by bus or taxi. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Arriving the day before is often advisable for international flights to ensure a relaxed connection to the ferry.
Auto
Travelers from the DACH region reach Split via well-developed highways, such as the A1 in Croatia. In Split, various guarded parking garages and open-air lots are available near the ferry port for short- and long-term parking if you wish to leave your car on the mainland. Alternatively, you can take the car ferry from Split to Stari Grad. On Hvar, public parking is available in Stari Grad and the surrounding villages. It is recommended to book ferry tickets for vehicles in advance, especially during the high season.
Ferry
The ferry connection from Split to Stari Grad is the central travel option to the island of Hvar. The largest ferry company, Jadrolinija, offers regular car ferries, and the crossing takes about two hours. The ferry port in Stari Grad is the town's main port and is well signposted. From there, depending on the location of your ship or accommodation, you can reach the embarkation areas or hotels comfortably on foot or with a short taxi transfer. It is advisable to book ferry tickets, especially for vehicles, online early to avoid waiting times and secure a spot.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your arrival at the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The port of Stari Grad on the picturesque island of Hvar is an important hub for travelers and cruise passengers, easily accessible thanks to well-organized ferry connections and transfers. Since it is an island port, the final leg of the journey always takes place by ferry from the mainland, usually via Split.
Airplane
The nearest international airport is Split (SPU) on the Croatian mainland, which is served by direct flights from numerous German, Austrian, and Swiss cities. From Split Airport, you can easily reach the Split ferry port, located about 25 kilometers away, by bus or taxi. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Arriving the day before is often advisable for international flights to ensure a relaxed connection to the ferry.
Auto
Travelers from the DACH region reach Split via well-developed highways, such as the A1 in Croatia. In Split, various guarded parking garages and open-air lots are available near the ferry port for short- and long-term parking if you wish to leave your car on the mainland. Alternatively, you can take the car ferry from Split to Stari Grad. On Hvar, public parking is available in Stari Grad and the surrounding villages. It is recommended to book ferry tickets for vehicles in advance, especially during the high season.
Ferry
The ferry connection from Split to Stari Grad is the central travel option to the island of Hvar. The largest ferry company, Jadrolinija, offers regular car ferries, and the crossing takes about two hours. The ferry port in Stari Grad is the town's main port and is well signposted. From there, depending on the location of your ship or accommodation, you can reach the embarkation areas or hotels comfortably on foot or with a short taxi transfer. It is advisable to book ferry tickets, especially for vehicles, online early to avoid waiting times and secure a spot.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your arrival at the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The port of Stari Grad is picturesquely situated in a deep bay and, thanks to its location, allows you for a relaxed start directly into the island life of Hvar.
On Foot
A well-maintained and flat coastal path leads from the ferry terminal directly into the historic center of Stari Grad. The walk along the coast takes about 20 minutes and also offers you wonderful views of the crystal-clear water.
Water Taxi
Small local boats commute regularly between the terminal and the city promenade, the so-called Riva. This convenient connection takes you in a few minutes directly into the heart of the old town and simultaneously allows for a beautiful view of the coastline.
Local Buses
Directly at the port exit, you will find stops for the island buses that connect Stari Grad with other places such as Hvar Town. The departure times are synchronized with the arrivals and offer an uncomplicated way to explore the surroundings of the island.
To optimally experience the history-steeped atmosphere of Stari Grad, a relaxed walk through the historic core and the adjacent natural monuments of Croatia's oldest town is recommended.
Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović & Riva
The fortified Renaissance castle with its idyllic fishpond forms the cultural heart of the town, and the Riva waterfront promenade directly in front of it, with its charming cafés, is the perfect place to linger by the glittering water.
Stari Grad Plain (Ager)
This UNESCO World Heritage site impresses with its agricultural parceling, which has remained almost unchanged since antiquity, and offers ideal paths for strolls through olive groves and vineyards right on the edge of town.
Lanterna Beach
The picturesque swimming spots of Lanterna are just a short walk away along the bay and, thanks to their crystal-clear water and shade-providing pine forests, offer a perfect opportunity for a refreshing break by the sea.
Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović
The impressive Tvrdalj of the poet Petar Hektorović is located right at the end of the deep harbor basin and is easily reachable from the pier in just a few minutes on foot. This fortified Renaissance residence fascinates with an idyllic fish pond full of mullet as well as a lush garden and offers a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere thanks to its shaded arcades. The surrounding alleys of the historic old town also invite you to linger in charming cafés and perfectly reflect the authentic flair of one of the oldest cities in Europe. It is best to visit the Tvrdalj in the morning to enjoy the tranquility of the place to the fullest, and afterwards, plan a leisurely stroll along the palm-lined Riva so that you can return to the ship on time and stress-free.
The way back to the port of Stari Grad is very comfortable and can be planned reliably thanks to the excellent infrastructure and short distances. You have various options to return to your ship on time from the historic old town or the beaches.
Taxi
Taxis can be found directly at the central taxi rank opposite the Dolac bus station as well as at the Trajektna luka ferry terminal. The drivers are familiar with the ships' berthing times and, thanks to the short driving distance of about two kilometers, will bring you directly and comfortably back to the pier within a few minutes.
Local Buses
Regular bus connections operated by the company Čazmatrans commute between the old town and the harbor basin. The stop is located on the edge of the center near the Studenac supermarket and is also well signposted, so you can easily use this inexpensive service for a punctual return to your berth.
On Foot
A picturesque and paved footpath leads you along the waterfront promenade Obala hrvatskih branitelja directly from the city center to the port. This level path offers you the wonderful opportunity to walk around the bay of Stari Grad in about 25 minutes and enjoy the Mediterranean landscape in peace.
In port on 04 Jul 2026
