Hotels near Spanish Fortress (Fortica)

Topping every list of things to do in Hvar, the Spanish Fortress (Fortica or Tvrdava Spanjola in Croatian) is the cliffside fortification that hangs above Hvar Town's red-tiled rooftops. The original 13th-century structure was rebuilt in the 1550s after a Venetian arsenal explosion, with Spanish military engineers shaping much of what stands today, which is where the local nickname comes from.

Inside, you'll find a small archaeological collection with amphorae from Greek and Roman shipwrecks, a dungeon, and a cafe with the best view on the island. The terrace looks straight down onto the harbour, the cathedral bell tower, and the Pakleni archipelago across the channel. Entry costs around EUR 10 in 2026 and the walk up takes 15-20 minutes from the main square via stepped lanes signed 'Fortica'.

Pro Tip: Go up an hour before sunset, order a drink at the terrace cafe, and stay for the golden hour. Skip the midday climb; there's no shade on the steps and the queue at the gate stretches long after 11am in July and August.