Travel Plan
Fortica fortress

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · HVAR

Fortica fortress

A 16th-century hilltop fortress above Hvar town, with the island's best sunset view.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Paid
Best time
Sunset
Area
Above Hvar town

A hilltop fortress with island views.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Ul. Biskupa Jurja Dubokovića, 21450 Hvar

  • On foot: About 20 minutes uphill through the old town and a pine park.
  • Shade: Partly shaded path; bring water.
  • Inside: A small museum and café.

The story of the Fortica fortress

Fortica, also called Španjola, was built in the 16th century under Venetian rule to protect Hvar town and its harbour, on a site fortified since ancient times.

From its walls you look over the red roofs of Hvar, the harbour full of yachts and the Pakleni Islands scattered across the sea.

Best time to visit

Best season

April to October.

Best time of day

Sunset.

Summer

Climb in the late afternoon to avoid heat.

Tips before you go

  • Climb up for sunset.
  • Time your climb to arrive 30 minutes before sunset.
  • Look for the old prison cells below the fortress.

Best hotels near the Fortica fortress

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Maslina Resort

Wellness resort on a quiet bay.

See prices

Palace Elisabeth

Historic hotel on the main square.

See prices
All hotels near the Fortica fortress

What's around the Fortica fortress

  • St Stephen's SquareBelow the fortress.
  • Pakleni IslandsView from the top.
  • Hvar old townLanes up to the fortress.
  • Napoleon FortHigher fort further inland.

Questions travellers ask

How long is the walk to Fortica?

About 20 minutes.

Is it worth it?

Yes, especially at sunset.

Is there a café?

Yes, at the top.

More in Hvar

St Stephen’s Square, Hvar

St Stephen’s Square, Hvar

Read the guide
Pakleni Islands

Pakleni Islands

Read the guide
Back to the Hvar guide
Travel Plan · Fortica fortress Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure