7Hvar, Croatia

Hvar combines Mediterranean beauty with a glamorous edge. Its historic main town features stone buildings, a beautiful harbor and a hilltop fortress overlooking the Adriatic.

But the real magic begins when you leave the town behind. Vineyards, lavender fields, hidden coves and pine-covered hills stretch across the island, while the nearby Pakleni Islands offer crystal-clear water and secluded swimming spots.

Hvar can certainly be lively in summer, but explore beyond the main town and you’ll discover a quieter side that feels wonderfully Mediterranean.

Paradise factor: Adriatic beaches, historic towns and island-hopping opportunities.