Congratulations, you have found the love of your life! That’s something truly special!
Now you’re ready to celebrate your love in a way that feels authentic, intimate, and just right for the two of you—by eloping in a beautiful place!
Whether you’re dreaming of exchanging vows on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, at a stunning beach, at a medieval fortress or in a charming city hall, your elopement is all about creating a meaningful experience that reflects your unique love story.
Eloping isn’t about running away—it’s about running toward the kind of wedding that makes your hearts happiest. No stress, no pressure—just the two of you (and maybe a few loved ones) making unforgettable memories in a way that feels perfect.
So, let’s dive into how to make your elopement truly magical!
Meet Katarina, expert Hvar elopement photographer
My name is Katarina Tati, I am wedding and elopement photographer serving Croatia and beyond.
Hvar is by far my favorite wedding destination in Croatia. It has a special place in my heart—it’s an island that I explored so many times that I know like the back of my palm. Every trip to Hvar feels like coming home. I'd be honest, whenever I get an inquiry to photograph a wedding or elopement in Hvar, I get super excited and I can't wait to hear your vision for your big day and help you planning!
Having years of experience of photographing stunning weddings and elopements on Hvar and helping so many couples to navigate through this challenging times to plan their elopement from another side of the world, I have created this detailed guide for you. My guide will provide you with an easy and quick way to start planning your elopement in Hvar.
Here is what a couple whose elopement I have photographed in Hvar says about my services:
" Katarina is an absolute joy to work with. She has the creative vision, and attention to detail that makes you feel very comfortable in knowing you can rely on her to deliver you with some incredibly stunning photos.
Her style is unmatched, and perfect for someone who wants photos that are both effortlessly elegant, and uniquely personal. Katarina made it very apparent that she wants to know what was important to us. She wanted us to dream of what our ideal vision would be, she listened, and she made it a reality.
Anyone who is planning a wedding knows it can be stressful, so having someone as sweet as Katarina there for you will put you at ease. My husband and I had such an amazing experience working with her, and we felt comfortable in front of Katarina’s camera right away. She patiently had our back the entire time, and provided helpful suggestions and excellent direction throughout the photography session.
We will cherish these timeless photos forever, and are beyond grateful for Katarina’s talent. We couldn’t recommend a better photographer!"
Hvar is one of the most enchanting islands in Croatia, offering couples a unique mix of natural beauty, party, history, and luxury.
Here’s why Hvar is the perfect place to elope:
Unmatched Scenery – Think breathtaking sunsets, turquoise waters, and lush lavender fields. Elope with a mind blowing view & let me create the most beautiful images you will treasure a lifetime
World-Class Dining & Wine – Hvar is home to some of Croatia’s best wineries and seafood restaurants.
Well-known wedding destination – Hvar is home to some of the most beautiful wedding venues, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. With such a mix, saying “I do” here feels like an effortless and perfect choice, be it a big wedding or an intimate elopement.
Unreal Party Atmosphere – Hvar is known as one of the best party destinations in Croatia. The island has a mix of beach cubs, roof top bars and all-night parties. The party doesn't stop here.
Mediterranean Climate – Over 2,700 hours of sunshine per year make it the sunniest spot in Croatia, which gives you the highest chance of having your elopement on a sunny day with that dreamy golden light during the sunset.
Rich History & Culture – Medieval stone streets, Venetian architecture, and historic fortress create a magical ambiance ideal to celebrate your love
Seclusion & Intimacy – From hidden beaches to charming villas, you can find the perfect private spot to say “I do.”
How to get to Hvar?
Hvar is an island, meaning there’s no direct airport, but it’s easily accessible from mainland Croatia. Here’s how to get there:
1. Fly to Croatia
The closest airports to Hvar are:
✈ Split Airport (SPU) – The most convenient option. It takes half an hour to get from the airport to the ferry dock ( Luka Split) and another 50 minutes by catamaran to come to Hvar town.
✈ Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) – First visit Dubrovnik and then travel 3 hours by a catamaran to Hvar town, passing by the most beautiful islands in Adriatic.
✈ Zagreb Airport (ZAG) – Zagreb airport is 4 hours by a car or a 50 minutes flight to Split airport.
2. Take a Ferry or Catamaran to Hvar
Once you arrive in Split or Dubrovnik, you’ll need to take a ferry or catamaran to Hvar.
⛴ From Split: There are three companies that operate between Split and Hvar island
- Jadrolinija, Krilo and TP Line run high-speed catamarans from Split directly to Hvar Town. The trip takes 50 minutes. Come at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time since they tend to leave sharp on time. You can buy tickets online (preferably) or buy them before the trip.
- Alternatively, if you come with a car to the island, take a car ferry to Stari Grad (it takes 2 hours), then have a short drive to Hvar Town. If you travel by a car, it is advisable to come 1-2 hours before the scheduled time to line up your car for the ferry.
⛴ From Dubrovnik: There are three companies that operate between Hvar island and Dubrovnik in summer. Jadrolinija, Krilo and TP Line run high-speed catamarans from Dubrovnik to Hvar Town. The trip takes 3-4 hours
⛴ From Italy: Ferries run from Ancona to Split, followed by a ferry to Hvar.
It's advisable to plan your elopement in advance, ideally 6-9 months beforehand. Start by booking your flights and your accommodation, since great options are booked fast.
Contact your elopement photographer to secure your date. Unless you have a particular date in mind, try to be flexible about the date as in this case you have higher chances to get the elopement photographer you really like. Avoid Fridays and Saturdays when most of the photographers are busy photographing full day weddings.
Except your elopement photographer, you may need to contact an elopement planner, a florist, an officiant, a makeup artist, a hair stylist etc.
Katarina Tati Weddings eagerly helps her couples not only with giving advice on how to get the most beautiful elopement photos, but also suggesting the best vendors in the industry and making your elopement timeline. Katarina Tati has immense experience with photographing weddings and elopements in Hvar and she will be happy to share her expertise with you to create the elopement you’ve always dreamt of!
Choose the best time to elope in Hvar
Let's face it, Hvar is beautiful all year-round, but the best months to elope are from April to June and September to October. These months offer warm weather, fewer tourists, and a more relaxed atmosphere. The weather is not too hot yet.
July and August is the peak season in Hvar, which means higher prices and crowded locations. If you plan on eloping in these months, do yourself a favor and book your accommodation and reserve your dinner in Hvar restaurant on time!
The weather is dry, sunny and very hot. But if you love a lively Mediterranean vibe, it could still be a great choice for you. If you come with your friends. having an elopement on a villa with a pool and beautiful surroundings could be a great option.
Legal Requirements for Eloping in Croatia
There are two ways to elope in Croatia, with a legally binding ceremony or with a symbolic ceremony.
Legally binding marriage is recognized all over the whole world. It is performed by an official wedding registrar. For extra payment they may travel to your wedding location but usually the prefer not to go to any remote places. To have this ceremony, two witnesses are required.
If you want a legally binding ceremony in Hvar, you’ll need to prepare in advance some documents:
A document that proves your identity
A document that proves your citizenship
An apostilled original of your birth certificate issued in the country of your birth translated into Croatian
A certificate of free marital status
A certificate that proves there are no obstacles to the marriage in the Republic of Croatia, and that the marriage will be recognized in the country of your origin, translated into Croatian.
These documents should be submitted to the Croatian registry office at least 30-45 days before the date of your ceremony.
An official
A civil ceremony must be performed by an official Croatian officiant in Croatian. Additionally, you can hire a translator who will translate the ceremony to your language.
If a legal ceremony sounds too complicated for you, you can opt for making it officially in your country and then travel to Croatia and have a symbolic ceremony there. Symbolic ceremony allows for more flexibility as you can have it in any place.
Most of the couples I photographed opted for a symbolic ceremony in Hvar and handled the legal paperwork in their home country to simplify the process.
Best Places to Stay in Hvar for your elopement
Hvar offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to private villas and tastefully decorated airbnbs.
Since you will use your accommodation for your getting ready, choose the place you truly love cause you will see it on your elopement photos over and over again. Indulge yourself in an accommodation of your dreams, a suit or a villa with a gorgeous view. Here are some places I photographed my couples during their weddings and elopement and I’d gladly recommend them for you (not sponsored by property owners). All of these places offer comfortable, tasteful and spacious accommodation which looks stunning in photos.
Stylish hotels that offer unforgettable stay in Hvar and look incredible on your getting ready photos:
Palace Elisabeth – A stunning 5-star hotel with elegant suites and breathtaking views of Hvar harbor, located right on the main square of Hvar town.
Maslina Resort – A tranquil, eco-luxury retreat near Stari Grad, perfect for a secluded, romantic getaway.
Hotel Adriana – A stylish boutique hotel with a rooftop spa and sea views, located in the heart of Hvar Town.
Riva Marina is a newly renovated hotel in the heart of Hvar with tastefully decorated suits
Charming Villas & Airbnb:
Riva Lavanda Hvar, Old Town a charming historic stone apartment with large living room, windows overlooking the bay and a large terrace, located right near Hvar main square
Villa Galapagos and Villa Pelagos are two villas located next to each other, each with a pool and well maintained lush surroundings, located 5 min drive from Hvar town. The villas can be booked together or separately
Palazzo v. Pelsocz is a historical palace in the heart of Hvar, luxurious accommodation with 5 bedrooms and jacuzzi
Little Green Bay – A boutique beachfront retreat with a chic, bohemian vibe on the island’s quieter side, located in Lozna bay.
Eco house Humac, a newly renovated 4 bedroom house on a top of the hill in Humac. It boasts an incredible view over nearby islands. It can be one place you need for your accommodation, getting ready, a ceremony and a celebration.
Villa Marchi, a beautifully renovated historical villa, a short walking distance to Hvar square. It is divided into comfortable and roomy apartments.
Where to Elope in Hvar: Pick the Perfect Elopement Location For You in Hvar
Hvar is the perfect destination for an intimate and breathtaking elopement. Whether you’re drawn to historic fortresses, secluded beaches, or fragrant lavender fields, this island has a setting that will make your wedding unforgettable. To help you plan your perfect elopement, I’ve rounded up the best places to elope in Hvar.
Here are some of the most magical spots to have an elopement ceremony in Hvar.
Spanish Fortress (Fortica)
Perched high above Hvar Town, Spanish Fortress offers one of the most breathtaking backdrops on the island. With panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the Pakleni Islands, this historic fortress is perfect for couples looking for a dramatic view and romantic setting.
Every couple whose wedding and elopement I photographed were astonished in how stunning the view from Fortica was.
Why it’s perfect: Unbeatable sunset views, historic ambiance with a secluded, intimate feel.
Best time to elope here: Sunset ceremonies are the most magical, with golden light illuminating the town and the nearby islands..
If you’re dreaming of a barefoot elopement with the sound of waves in the background, Dubovica Beach is a hidden gem. This small, picturesque bay, about 10 minutes from Hvar Town, features turquoise waters and a charming old stone house, making for incredible elopement photos.
Why it’s perfect: A peaceful, unspoiled beach with natural beauty and a romantic setting.
Cost: Free! However, since it’s a public beach, early morning or late afternoon ceremonies are best for privacy.
Best time to elope here: Weekdays and off-season months (May, September, October) offer the most seclusion.
Franciscan Monastery Garden
Tucked away just a short walk from Hvar Town’s bustling streets, the Franciscan Monastery Garden offers a peaceful and romantic escape. Surrounded by centuries-old stone walls, tall cypress trees, and overlooking the shimmering Adriatic, this spot is perfect for couples looking for a mix of history and natural beauty.
Why it’s perfect: A serene, intimate setting away from the crowds with historic charm adding a timeless, romantic feel.
Cost: While the monastery itself is open to visitors, reserving the garden for a private ceremony requires permission from the monastery and may come with a rental fee.
If you’re looking for a truly exclusive elopement location, Galešnik Island is one of Hvar’s best-kept secrets. Just a five-minute boat ride from Hvar Town, this small, privately-owned island offers breathtaking panoramic views of Hvar’s old town, untouched nature, and complete seclusion for your special day.
Why it’s perfect: Ultimate privacy—no crowds, just you, the sea, and the sunset. It provides stunning photo opportunities with Hvar Town as your backdrop.
Cost: Since Galešnik is privately owned, renting the island for an elopement comes with a fee.
A Private Villa Overlooking the Sea
For couples wanting a completely private and luxurious elopement, renting a villa with a sea view is an amazing option. Many villas in Hvar offer stunning terraces, infinity pools, and direct access to the beach, creating an intimate and exclusive setting for your vows.
Why it’s perfect: Full privacy, stunning views, and the option to celebrate with a private dinner after your ceremony.
Cost: Villa rentals vary widely, starting from €500 per night for high-end properties.
Just a short boat ride from Hvar, the Pakleni Islands are perfect for couples looking for a remote and exclusive elopement location. With hidden beaches, crystal-clear coves, and lush pine forests, these islands feel like a private paradise.
Why it’s perfect: Ultimate privacy, stunning seascapes, and a true escape into nature.
Cost: Some beaches are free, but renting a private area or a beach club (like Laganini or Zori) can cost between €500–€1,500, depending on the setup.
Lavender Fields in Brusje
Just a short drive from Hvar Town, the lavender fields of Brusje offer a truly magical setting for an elopement. The rolling hills covered in fragrant lavender create a unique and picturesque atmosphere, especially in June and July when the flowers are in full bloom.
Why it’s perfect: A dreamy, nature-filled setting that looks straight out of a postcard.
Cost: Free! However, some areas are private property, so it’s best to ask permission if needed.
Best time: June and July when lavender blossoms
Lacman Family Winery
Located in the heart of Hvar’s wine region, this charming family-run winery offers a peaceful setting, authentic Dalmatian charm, and, of course, some of the finest local wines to celebrate your big day.
Why It’s Perfect: An intimate, relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds of Hvar Town.
Cost: Since the Lacman Family Winery is a private estate, couples usually need to book a wedding package or private event setup.
Final Tips for the Perfect Hvar Elopement
Hire a local photographer who works often on Hvar and can eagerly assist you with making your dream elopement a reality
Plan around golden hour for the most stunning photos. Hvar is just stunning in golden light and so will be your photos
Embrace the island’s laid-back vibe – your elopement should be stress-free and built to your enjoyment
Consider a weekday elopement for more privacy at popular spots
Celebrate with local traditions, like toasting with Croatian prosecco or enjoying a Dalmatian seafood feast.
Ready to Elope in Hvar?
Eloping in Hvar is an unforgettable experience, blending romance, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you dream of a seaside ceremony, a historic fortress backdrop, or a sunset celebration on a private island, Hvar has it all.
Need help planning your dream elopement?
Book your flights & accommodation and reach out to the photographer who loves Hvar dearly, Katarina Tati, and get ready for the most magical experience of your life!
Would you like a customized elopement plan for your love story?
Let’s make your dream elopement in Hvar a reality!
