Best Time To Visit: May to October is great for sailing, with the shoulder seasons being quiet and warm.

Key Cruising Areas: The island of Hvar is an ideal start exploring the many small islands and harbors of the Croatian coastline. Sailing south, the neighboring countries of Montenegro and Albania are often overlooked but fantastic destinations.

Don’t Miss: Although relatively new to the party scene, Hvar is becoming known as the choice of the more discerning rich and famous and must be sampled. After warming up with cocktails at Bar Bolera, head to the exclusive Carpe Diem to rub shoulders with celebrities. For an incredible night visit Veneranda – an open-air nightclub set in a Venetian fortress, or for a more relaxed evening enjoy the jazz and blues at Central Park Club.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The nightlife of Hvar is unparalleled, and the island offers a selection of delectable restaurants to start your evening. The area of Gorda north of the town square is a network of alleys filled with high-quality restaurants. The creative twists on traditional dishes that can be found at Giaxa stand out. Fresh ingredients and perfect execution in a stunning setting make an unforgettable meal – try the tasting menus in the summer and bread baked in-house.

Best Local Dish: As an island, the cuisine of Hvar revolves around seafood. A favorite local dish is octopus salad – try the version at Konoba Menego followed by shrimp gnocchi, with a glass of rakija for a traditional evening.

Local Culture: Hvar is peppered with ancient relics of its past. The 13th-century walls surround the old town, enclosing marble streets wound around beautiful Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance buildings. Wandering around will give you a wonderful insight into the island’s history, but for an intriguing experience take a tour of the abandoned village of Malo Grablje.

Best Beach: The Pakleni archipelago in the south of Hvar boasts many tiny, secluded beaches. Vlaka on Sveti Klement is a quiet bay with glittering waters. A wonderful escape from the town with beautiful views, the bay is also home to an excellent family-run restaurant – Dionis – which is worth the walk up the hill.

IYC recommends: Walk up to Fortica in Hvar town. A pretty walk through a forest and native flowers will bring you to the fort, for the best views of the town and harbor. Explore the fortress and enjoy the view, then head back down to get a table in the beachfront Hula Hula and relax while the sun goes down. The sunsets of Croatia are stunning and sitting in the trendy hangout with a cocktail in your hand is the way to experience them.