Vrboska is a small village on Hvar’s north coast, built along both sides of a long, narrow inlet crossed by little stone bridges. It is about 4 km from Jelsa.
Why visit
The fortified church of St Mary was strengthened in the 16th century against Ottoman raids, and the church of St Lawrence holds a polyptych attributed to Titian. A small fishing museum tells the story of the village’s fishermen.
A coastal path links Vrboska with Jelsa, and there are pebble beaches near the mouth of the inlet.
Where to stay
Apartments line the inlet and the streets above it. It is a quiet base – for more restaurants, Jelsa is close.
Getting there and around
Vrboska is about 20 minutes by car from the Stari Grad ferry port and about 10 minutes from Jelsa.
Parking
Parking is limited around the inlet in summer. Park at the edge of the village.
Day trips
Nearby destinations
Croatian Islands
Hvar Town
The island’s harbour town: a grand square, a hilltop fortress and the Pakleni islands offshore.
Croatian Islands
Jelsa
A relaxed harbour town on Hvar’s north coast, between pine woods and vineyards.
Croatian Islands
Stari Grad
Hvar’s oldest town, founded by the Greeks, beside a UNESCO-listed plain.
Frequently asked questions
Can I walk from Jelsa to Vrboska?
Yes, a coastal path connects them – allow about an hour.
Why is Vrboska called “little Venice”?
Because the village is built along a narrow, canal-like inlet crossed by small bridges.
