The Best of Hvar Small Group with Wine Tasting and Local meal

Exploring Hvar with the Best of Hvar Small Group Tour: A Deep Dive

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s famed island of Hvar, you’ll want to ensure you see the best spots while enjoying authentic local flavors. The Best of Hvar Small Group Tour combines scenic drives, historical sights, wine tasting, and traditional cuisine into a manageable 6.5-hour experience. With a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour promises a personalized touch, guided by knowledgeable hosts who excel at sharing local insights.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with authentic culinary experiences. The inclusion of wine tasting at a top vineyard and a traditional Dalmatian dinner adds real flavor to what might otherwise be a typical sightseeing day. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves quite a bit of driving — if you’re not a fan of long road trips, this might not be your ideal pick. Still, for those craving a thorough, culturally rich overview of Hvar, this tour hits the mark beautifully.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see multiple facets of Hvar in one day — from historical sites and charming towns to scenic lavender fields and vineyards — all wrapped up with great food and wine. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided tours with a personal touch and are eager to indulge in local flavors.

Key Points

• Personalized Small Group: Max 12 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Historical & Scenic Highlights: Includes St Nicholas Hill, Tvrdalj fortress, and Vrbovska.
• Authentic Tasting & Cuisine: Wine tasting at a renowned vineyard plus a Dalmatian 3-course dinner.
• Beautiful Natural Settings: Lavender fields (seasonal), olive groves, and protected UNESCO areas.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off from Hvar or Stari Grad ferry port included.
• Seasonal and Flexible: Lavender fields are June-July; meal options cater to vegetarians, meat-lovers, and seafood fans.

An In-Depth Look at the Hvar Small Group Tour

Starting Out: From Hvar to the Heights of St Nicholas Hill

The tour kicks off at 11:00 am with a convenient pickup from Hvar’s bus stop at Dolac, or your hotel if accessible. From there, you’re driven up to St Nicholas Hill, home to the French Fortress built by Napoleonic troops. This site offers panoramic views of Hvar town, the Spanish Fortress, and even the neighboring Pakleni and Vis islands. It’s a fantastic spot to snap photos and get a sense of the island’s strategic importance over centuries.

Reviewers consistently mention the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. Angel_T, who gave a perfect 5-star rating, highlighted Urska’s professionalism and ease, noting how she comfortably navigated the scenic routes while sharing interesting tidbits about the fortress and the surrounding landscape. This personal touch turns what could be just a quick stop into an engaging storytelling session.

Driving Through Hvar’s Green Heart & Lavender Fields

Next, the journey takes you through the lush inland of Hvar, with a notable stop in Brusje, where seasonal lavender fields bloom (mainly June to July). If you’re visiting during this window, you’ll love the chance to walk through fragrant purple rows that add a touch of Provence to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. For those not visiting during the lavender season, the drive itself offers lush views of Hvar’s rolling hills and vineyards.

From there, the tour continues along old paved roads leading you to the port town of Stari Grad, formerly known as Pharos or Pharia. This UNESCO-listed site is famous for its ancient architecture and charming harbor. We loved the way the guide pointed out the narrow stone streets and the fortress Tvrdalj, which once belonged to the poet Petar Hektorovi. This fortress features an original fish pond, a quirky and peaceful reminder of Hvar’s maritime history.

Stari Grad & Vrbovska: Historic Charm & Picturesque Bridges

Walking along the Riva promenade in Stari Grad, you’ll get a feel for local life and stop for a coffee. The town’s slow pace and historic buildings make it a perfect spot to soak in the ambiance. The fortress and the old town are compact but packed with character.

The tour then makes its way to Vrbovska, known for its stone bridges that span narrow canals — earning it the nickname “Little Venice.” This small, charming town offers another layer of authentic Hvar, with a fortress dedicated to St. Mary of Mercy providing a wonderful photo backdrop. Reviewers mention the town’s unique bridges and winding canals as a highlight, adding to the tour’s visual appeal.

Wine Tasting at a Top Vineyard

No Croatian tour is complete without sampling local wines, and this one delivers with a visit to either Tomi or Cari vineyards, both highly regarded. Guests often praise the wine tasting experience, noting the quality of the wines and the warmth of the hosts. It’s a relaxed, educational stop where you can learn about the island’s wine culture while enjoying tastings of local varieties.

A Truly Authentic Dalmatian Meal

The tour culminates in a traditional Dalmatian feast — served either in Malo Grablje, an abandoned eco-village, or an olive grove konoba, depending on availability. The meal is a showcase of regional flavors:

• Appetizer: Local cheese, smoked ham, and marinated fish, all drizzled with island extra virgin olive oil.
• Main Course: Peka — a classic Dalmatian dish where lamb or veal is slow-cooked under an iron bell with hot coals. Octopus is available on request, catering to seafood lovers.
• Dessert: A simple but delicious traditional treat with almonds.

The meal includes local wine, water, and grappa, giving you a true taste of Dalmatian hospitality. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food and the authenticity of the experience, emphasizing how well it complements the day’s sightseeing.

Practical Details & Value

The entire experience lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including pickup and drop-off. The price of around $335.70 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the inclusions — transportation, guided commentary, wine tastings, and a full traditional meal — it offers solid value.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the flexible meal options (vegetarian, meat, or octopus) cater to diverse dietary needs. The tour’s seasonality means lavender fields are a bonus if your visit coincides, making it an ideal choice for spring and early summer travelers.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, culturally immersive day on Hvar without the hassle of planning multiple activities. The combination of historical sights, scenic drive, wine tasting, and authentic cuisine offers a balanced taste of island life.

It’s perfect for those who appreciate good storytelling, scenic beauty, and local flavors, and are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing that includes some driving. The small group setting adds a friendly, relaxed vibe, making it ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to connect.

However, if you prefer a more active, outdoor adventure or are on a tight schedule, this might feel a bit laid-back or lengthy. Still, for a well-rounded introduction to Hvar’s highlights, this tour hits most of the right notes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from your Hvar hotel, bus station, or Stari Grad ferry port is included, making logistics hassle-free.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts about 6 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and meals, providing a full day of exploration.

Can I choose different meal options?
Yes, vegetarian, meat, or octopus options are available — just let the provider know at the time of booking.

Are wine tastings included?
Absolutely. You’ll visit a top vineyard, either Tomi or Cari, for tastings of local wines.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the minimum drinking age is 18. The focus on history, scenery, and food makes it broadly appealing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes for walking and some sun protection are recommended. The tour involves outdoor stops and scenic viewpoints.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour has a small maximum group size, so booking early is advised.

In essence, this Best of Hvar small group tour offers a well-rounded, engaging day filled with history, stunning scenery, delectable wines, and genuine local flavors. For travelers eager to experience Hvar beyond the typical postcard sights, it’s an authentic, enjoyable choice that balances cultural insights with leisurely indulgence.