Question 1

What is the "Pickpocketing in the Old Town" scam in Hvar?

Accepted Answer

Pickpockets work the narrow lanes of Hvar Town old city during peak season, particularly around the main square and near fortress viewpoints where tourists are distracted by the scenery. Phones held in hand for photography and wallets in rear pockets are primary targets. Keep your phone in a pocket when not actively using it. Use a front pocket or zipped interior compartment for your wallet. Be specifically alert when someone creates unexpected physical contact in a narrow lane.

Question 2

What is the "Overpriced Wine and Local Product Markups" scam in Hvar?

Accepted Answer

Hvar is genuinely known for its lavender and locally produced wines, and merchants in Hvar Town take advantage of this reputation to sell mass-produced wine and lavender products with premium local branding at prices far above actual local production. Bottles labelled with Hvar or Dalmatia branding are not always locally produced. Visit the Hvar Tourist Board or a reputable wine shop for guidance on genuine local producers. Ask specifically where the wine was produced and by which winery before purchasing at any high price. Lavender products from the main souvenir shops are typically imported — genuine Hvar lavender is sold at the Stari Grad open market.

Street Scams in Hvar

Pickpocketing in the Old Town

Overpriced Wine and Local Product Markups

Experienced a scam here?