Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Hvar because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Hvar, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik. Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Hvar.
Three days will allow you to see the main attractions in Hvar town, explore the magical Pakleni islands, as well as a bit of the Western side of the island. In five days you'll be able to explore Hvar Island extensively, enjoy the many beaches and you'll get to explore some of my favorite hidden gems too.
The sailing time from Split to Hvar town is about 60 minutes. Why are there only a few departures? The timetable for the catamarans varies depending on the time of the year. The highest number of daily departures is during July and August, and the fewest departures are from October to April.
Hvar at a glanceThe distance from Split is 19 nautical miles (35 km) and from Dubrovnik 77 nautical miles (140 km). From both places, Hvar is easily reachable as a day trip destination (see other day trips from Split).
Split is more relaxed and fun, centrally located, offering more day trip options, better nightlife, and slightly cheaper prices than Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful walled cities in the world, very elegant, with better beaches and hotels than Split. Both towns are must-visit places in Croatia.
If you want to experience some of the best nightclubs on Hvar, then it is best to stay overnight. If you are visiting Hvar on a daytrip from Split, there are still plenty of great places to spend your evening in Hvar Town before you catch the last ferry back. There are so many restaurants to choose from in Hvar Town.
I think you should look at spending a night or two on Hvar, at least three in Dubrovnik and the rest in Split. If you have the time you might as well stay a night or two in Hvar. Obviously you could take a day trip out there, but staying a night will allow you to soak up the atmosphere of the place a bit better.
Most travelers will find that seven to nine days is perfect for a well-paced Croatia trip with stops in Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as five or six days.
For a general comparison, the beaches in and around Hvar Town tend to be more frequented, sometimes a few becoming very busy during the peak season. Korcula instead has more secluded coves with a local feel. Most beaches in Croatia are pebbly or rocky bays surrounded by pine forests.