HVARCROATIA

LOCAL CUISINE SHOPPING

Explore the fertile coastal plains and hillsides of Hvar, the charming town on the island of the same name.

Once a central stop on Adriatic sailing routes, the town was formerly known as Pharos, the Greek word for lighthouse. Today, Hvar is known for its wine, liqueur, cherished lace production and fields of lavender and fruit orchards.

The town square is one of Croatia’s most welcoming, an entrance to picturesque lanes full of Dalmatian history. Palaces, fortresses and monasteries dot the landscape near shops and cafes.

Step ashore to see why Hvar is considered one of the world’s most beautiful islands.

Hvar’s cuisine has a warming Mediterranean flavor. Local herbs and spices, like rosemary, sage, bay leaf, oregano, marjoram and nutmeg, elevate meals from simple peasant cooking traditions to deeply satisfying nourishment.

The island’s meals are provincial, though. Stews are a daily staple. Try a traditional goulash or fiš-paprikaš, a spicy fish stew.

The regional specialty is pašticada, meat pierced and stuffed with garlic, cloves, carrots and bacon, then marinated in vinegar overnight before a half-day roasting with onions, prunes, tomatoes and prošek, a sweet wine.

Croatia has plenty of breweries. Try Velebitsko pivo, a dark beer, or Osječko, beer from the oldest brewery in the nation.

Shopping in Hvar takes on a romantic glow — the island is known for lace and lavender.

Benedictine nuns craft gorgeous lacework from agave leaves harvested and processed to create a thin, white thread. These delicate home linens and accessories

are unique to Hvar and are a wonderful result of patient, historic artisanship.

Lavender wafts through oils, perfumes and unguents. These delightful remembrances often come in decorative glass bottles that are just as pretty as the scent they hold. Buy the herb in fresh or dried bunches, too.

Discover the history and peaceful beauty of Hvar.

CURRENCY Croatia uses the kuna.

Some major banks exchange money at ATMs.

Tip 10-15% extra if a large group dines.

Always tip waiters in cash.

PLACES OF INTEREST TOP 3 LAND DISCOVERIES

1. PJACA Relish this public square’s lively atmosphere with historic buildings and cafes.

2. CATHEDRAL OF ST. STEPHEN Reflect within this Baroque and Romanesque cathedral built in the 1600s.

3. ARSENAL See the historic, waterfront theatre from the 1500s, one of Europe’s oldest.

4. LOGGIA Gaze at the water and old clock tower of the former Venetian Governor’s Palace.

5. FRANCISCAN MONASTERY Explore the grounds, gardens, art and manuscripts at this 15th century retreat.

6. ŠPANJOLA FORTRESS Overlook the city, harbor and Pakleni Islands from this Middle Ages citadel.

beyond city center

PETAR HEKTOROVIC PALACE Tour the incredible palace of a Croatian aristrocrat, playwright and poet.

DOMINICAN MONASTERY View the historic religious and secular artifacts at this austere monastery.

Experience the history of Starigrad and Vrisnik. Visit the Dominican Monastery in Starigrad before wandering independently. In Vrisnik, meet a friendly host serving dried figs, cheeses and wines before the Španjola Fortress and a view of the Pakleni Islands.

Experience the backroads of Hvar. Boasting a beautiful climate and lush subtropical vegetation, this guided tour includes old villages and authentic Dalmatian charm. Climb hills, enjoy panoramas and descend through olive groves and vineyards.

Get up close with this quaint island town. Walk through buildings and sites from the 12th to 18th centuries, including the Renaissance Cathedral with bell tower, the Arsenal and Franciscan Monastery, home to paintings, manuscripts and lace craftwork.

HVAR ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS

HVAR OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE

HVAR WALKING TOUR

Visit the Land Discoveries

Desk on Deck 4 to reserve

these and other exciting

experiences.

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This information has been compiled for the convenience of our guests and is intended solely for that purpose. While we work to ensure that the information contained herein is correct, we cannot accept responsibility for any changes that may have taken place since printing. ©2014 Azamara Club Cruises. Ships’ Registry: Malta.

HVARCROATIA