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How to get around Hvar without renting a car.

Published June 2026
How to get around Hvar without renting a car

Do You Need a Rental Car on Hvar? Probably Not.

Many visitors book a rental car before arriving on Hvar, assuming it's the only way to explore the island. In reality, most travellers don't need one.

The island's main towns are connected by local buses, private transfers provide door to door transport at any time of day, and water taxis make it easy to reach beaches and the Pakleni Islands. For most holidays, travelling without a car is simpler, more relaxing and often more affordable.

Getting Around Hvar by Bus

Local buses connect Hvar Town, Stari Grad, Jelsa, Vrboska and several other villages across the island. During the day they're a good option for straightforward journeys between the main towns, especially after ferry arrivals.

However, bus services become limited in the evening, operate less frequently on Sundays and don't reach private villas, remote beaches or many destinations on Hvar's south coast.

If you're arriving late at night or leaving early in the morning, buses usually aren't the most practical choice.

Private Transfers and Taxis on Hvar

For most visitors, private transfers are the easiest way to travel around the island.

Your driver collects you directly from your accommodation, ferry port or catamaran terminal and takes you straight to your destination. There's no searching for parking, changing buses or carrying luggage through town. Prices are fixed in advance, so there are no meters or unexpected charges.

Private transfers are especially useful for:

  • ferry and catamaran arrivals
  • beach and beach club transfers
  • dinner reservations and evening outings
  • winery visits and island tours
  • early morning or late night journeys when buses aren't running

Water Taxis and Boat Transfers

If you're planning to visit the Pakleni Islands or secluded beaches along the coast, boats are often the best way to travel.

Water taxis operate regularly from Hvar Town, and combining a private road transfer with a boat trip allows you to explore much of the island without ever renting a car.

When Renting a Car Isn't Worth It

A rental car makes sense if you plan to drive around the island every day. For many visitors, though, it creates more hassle than convenience.

Parking in Hvar Town is extremely limited during the summer, roads to the south coast are narrow and winding, and many drivers find the Pitve Tunnel intimidating. Once you add parking fees, fuel and the time spent driving, renting a car often ends up costing more than booking a few well planned transfers.

Most of our guests only need a handful of journeys during their stay: one from the ferry to their accommodation, one or two day trips, an evening out and a return transfer to the port. For many travellers, that's easier and more economical than renting a car for an entire holiday.

Plan Your Transport Before You Arrive

Tell us where you're staying, when you're arriving and what you'd like to see on Hvar. We'll help you plan the transfers you actually need, so you can enjoy the island without worrying about driving, parking or renting a car.

Make it happen

We'll plan the
whole day.

Boat, table, timing and the drive there and back — all handled.