If you’re dreaming of a day immersed in Croatian charm, this Hvar island tour with wine and olive oil tasting might just be what you’re looking for. From scenic vistas to delicious flavors, it offers a well-rounded taste of what makes this island so special. And the best part? You don’t need to plan much—everything from transportation to tastings is organized for you.
What I love about this tour is how it combines breathtaking views with authentic local experiences. You’ll get to see parts of Hvar you might not stumble upon on your own, and the wine and olive oil tastings are genuinely enjoyable. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour runs about five hours, so if you’re not a big fan of long days, it might feel a bit lengthy. Still, if you’re into scenic drives, good wine, and a touch of history, this tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, immersive day.
This experience is particularly great for those who appreciate local flavors, want to see more of the island beyond the main town, and enjoy learning about traditional production methods. It’s also suitable if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys a mix of nature, history, and good drinks. Families with older kids might also find it engaging, especially if they’re interested in wine or history.
Key Points
- Stunning Views: Expect memorable vistas from the Napoleon fortress and other viewpoints.
- Authentic Experience: Visit traditional villages, lavender fields, and learn local history.
- Wine & Olive Oil: Taste a curated selection of wines and aromatized olive oils in an intimate setting.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Petar and Paula make the experience engaging without feeling rushed.
- Flexible & Comfortable: Includes pickup, drop-off, and air-conditioned transportation.
- Value for Money: At $141, it offers a comprehensive look at Hvar’s flavors, scenery, and culture.
Hvar is known for its stunning coastlines and charming villages, but seeing it by vehicle allows you to cover more ground comfortably. Your journey begins in Hvar town, a vibrant hub, before heading up to the Napoleon fortress. From this vantage point at 250 meters, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Hvar and the surrounding islands—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery.
Afterward, following the old road through lavender fields and quaint villages, you’ll get a real sense of the island’s traditional character. Lavender, in particular, is a fragrant highlight, and it’s a soft, rolling landscape that invites relaxation and admiration.
You can check availability for your dates here:Discovering Hvar’s Heritage and Scenery
The tour’s stopping points are carefully chosen. The St. Rokos Chapel, with its breathtaking view of the Stari Grad Plain (a UNESCO World Heritage site), offers a perfect spot for photos and a moment to appreciate the island’s agricultural history. It’s an area that’s been cultivated for centuries, and you can see the terraced fields that have remained largely unchanged.
The real highlight, however, is the visit to Dubokovi Winery in Jelsa. Here, you’re greeted by Mr. Ivo Dubokovi, an owner passionate about his craft. His winery produces only 15,000 to 20,000 bottles annually, making his wines sought after in Croatia and abroad. You’ll get to taste his “Medvid”, among other wines, in a cozy traditional Dalmatian “konoba.”
What sets Ivo apart is his willingness to experiment—his wines incorporate unique techniques and flavor profiles, which makes for an engaging tasting. His aromatic, flavored olive oils complement the wines perfectly, and many reviews point out how memorable the oils are—they’re great for bringing home or enjoying during your trip.
Planning more time in Hvar City? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Wine and Olive Oil Tasting Experience
The tasting session is an intimate affair in the winery’s cellar, where you’ll discover a variety of wines paired beautifully with flavored olive oils. Expect to try different types, including some you might not find elsewhere, like the orange wine some reviewers mentioned. The oils, flavored with herbs like rosemary, are perfect for dipping bread, and many reviewers found the flavors addictive.
The hosts and guides keep the mood friendly and informative, making the experience both educational and relaxed. One guest described the winery as “a cool space” and mentioned that the aromatized olive oils “follow you throughout your vacation,” highlighting how memorable the flavors are.
How the Tour Is Structured
The entire experience lasts about five hours, which is a nice chunk of time to enjoy without feeling rushed. The transportation is comfortable—an air-conditioned vehicle with a pick-up and drop-off service, ensuring you’re well taken care of from start to finish. The group sizes tend to be small or medium, fostering a friendly atmosphere where questions and conversations flow naturally.
Lunch isn’t included, so if you’re hungry, plan accordingly—there are plenty of options in Hvar town before or after your tour. The tour is priced at $141 per person, which many reviews suggest is good value given the scope of experiences packed into the day.
Authenticity and Review Highlights
Multiple travelers have raved about the knowledgeable guides like Petar, Luka, and others. Their insights into Hvar’s history, culture, and local production methods add a rich layer to the experience. One reviewer noted, “Peter was a great guide and the best way to learn the history of the island,” which speaks volumes about the quality of the guiding.
The views are consistently praised—whether from the fortress or the scenic spots along the route—and the blend of history, nature, and local flavor makes this tour stand out. Guests often mention that it’s a great way to see parts of the island they wouldn’t reach on their own.
This Hvar island tour with wine and olive oil tasting offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, learning, and tasting that appeals to a wide range of travelers. It’s especially well-suited if you love local flavors, enjoy scenic drives, and want to learn about the island’s heritage without strenuous activity. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides create an engaging atmosphere that helps you feel connected to the place.
If you’re after a relaxed yet immersive experience, this tour provides a snapshot of Hvar’s beauty, history, and flavors all in one go. The quality wines, aromatic oils, and stunning viewpoints make it a memorable part of any Croatian trip—one that you’ll likely revisit in your memories long after.
Conversely, if you prefer a more active or independent exploration style, this tour might feel a bit curated. Also, keep in mind the duration—about five hours—and plan your day accordingly, especially if you want to explore more independently afterward.
Hvar: Island tour with Wine and Olive Oil Tasting
“Very interesting & enjoyable tour with Petar. We saw parts of the island we could not have reached ourselves. The wine & olive oil tasting was info…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it could work for older children who enjoy scenic drives, history, and tasting experiences. It’s a relaxed outing and doesn’t involve strenuous activity.
What’s included in the price?
You’ll get wine tasting paired with flavored olive oils, pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water. Lunch is not included, so plan to eat before or after.
How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it easy to plan your trip flexibly.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately five hours from start to finish, including travel, sightseeing, and tastings.
Are there any age restrictions?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but due to the wine tastings, it’s best suited for adults or older teens with an interest in local flavors.
If you love discovering new tastes, enjoy scenic views, and want an authentic taste of Hvar, this tour hits the mark without overdoing it. It’s a thoughtful way to spend a day, blending nature, history, and gastronomy in a relaxed setting.
You can check availability for your dates here: