croatia islands visit

• Destinations
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Art & Culture
• Music & Nightlife
• Los Angeles

The 13 best Croatian islands

Croatia provides the perfect opportunity for island-hopping. Find your ideal getaway with our top 13 islands in Croatia

Croatia’s coast is pure, nearly all 2,000 kilometres and 1,200 islands of it, and is open to all.  Verdant islands, bare karst-rock islands, tiny dots of islands with nothing on them but a lighthouse converted to accommodate isolated holidaymakers , naturist islands, islands with just deer and naturists feeding them, islands with cocktail bars attracting the VIP set, islands for windsurfers, islands for sculptors, islands for Tito’s political prisoners, islands for Tito’s collection of safari animals, islands so remote they’re nearer to Italy, islands called home by a family of 120 dolphins, islands of age-old fishing traditions, islands with a particular cave in which the sunlight turns a brilliant blue for an hour each day, islands known for their wine, cheese or anchovy pasties. More than 80 per cent of Croatia’s islands have no people on them at all.

If you’re looking for an island worthy of a week’s stay, some – like Brač  – are expansive enough to have their own airports. If you’re after daytrips and excursions, most can be reached by ferry from the mainland. Some of the tinier islands are determinedly deserted, meaning that overnight stays are banned – but you can still take boat trips to these Adriatic gems. There’s plenty of island hopping to be done, here’s our pick of the best in Croatia . 

RECOMMENDED:  43 great things to do in Croatia. RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Croatia.

1.  Hvar

You’ve probably already heard of Hvar. If you’re a yacht-owner, you’ve probably spent a few summers bobbing around on its sun-soaked shores. But despite its reputation as the swankiest of Croatian destinations, Hvar is much more than just a magnet for the reasonably famous and unreasonably rich – err from the money-soaked town centre and into the more modest coastal towns of Stari Grad and Jelsa, and you’ll find history, heritage and culture. There’s plenty of room here, on one of Croatia’s largest islands, for luxury-loving semi-celebrities and family holiday-makers alike, and with 2724 hours of sun a year, there are plenty of rays to share out, too. 

2.  Vis

The standout attraction here is not the island itself – although, as we’ve come to expect from Croatia, it is something of a dreamy haven – but the blue cave of Biševo that lurks, Aladdin-like, off its shores. Vis itself is the furthest afloat from the Croatian mainland, and from 1950 until 1989 it served as the Yugoslav National Army’s base, out of bounds to foreign visitors. So it still has the air of an unspoilt paradise, and visitors are seduced by its rudimental beauty. Two towns – the northeast Vis Town and Komiža, in the southwest – vie for tourist attention, and you’ll find several beachy enclaves in crevices along the rough coastline. 

3.  Rab

Sitting just off the northern coast, nestled in the Kvaner Bay, Rab is 22 km of tranquillity that forks out into the Adriatic sea. Its first taste of the limelight came when King Edward VIII took his new wife Wallis Simpson to the island in 1936. He soon cast off his regal garments and threw himself into the sea – so the story goes – setting the island’s nudist-friendly tradition off to a royal start. Rab has an especially calm, rustic vibe – flanked by sheltering ridges, its stunning beaches are untouched by turbulent mountain winds, and the small but lively town is a ramshackle patchwork of terracotta roofs, cream walls and church towers that soar into the sky. Locals are proud of their unassuming homeland’s heritage, and each year the island is swept up into feverish party atmosphere as the summer festival spurs into action. 

4.  Korčula

When the Greeks that originally set up camp on this island first landed, they were so struck by the dense, dark forests there that they called it Korkyra Melaina – Black Korčula. Now its famed for its white wine (the crispest, coolest kind made from its endemic posip grape) but those enchanting woodlands still exist, and the island – the second most populous in the Adriatic region – is a mix of quiet hamlets and vineyards tangled up in the woods, and fishing villages dotted along the winding coast. Korcula town is often dubbed ‘Little Dubrovnik’ because of its formidable medieval walls, but it has its own attractions to offer, too: you can visit a dedicated Marco Polo gallery (Croats claim he was born here; Venetians vehemently disagree; the museum is edifying either way), and a beautiful cathedral. 

5.  Brač

A short ferry trip away from coastal city Split, Brač is the largest of the central Dalmatian Islands, with a population of 13,956, its own airport (Bol), and the highest mountain on any Adriatic island. It attracts a less glitzy crowd than Hvar, and its main offering is its rich history (it’s been inhabited since the Neolithic age) and its richer olive oil (olive cultivating is a local trade and tradition). A fairly arid place, Brac is characterised by rocky coastal spots, and its signature export is the natural white stone which gets architects from all over the world salivating. 

6.  Mljet

One of the most edenlike spots in the Dalmatian archipelago, Mljet is improbably green and salubriously lush, and is home to an expansive variety of sea creatures that swim (like the cast of Finding Nemo, we like to think) off the island’s coast. Two salted lakes – Veliko and Malo Jezero – lure swimmers into their still waters, and an especially delicious local variety of goats’ cheese lures them into the restaurants afterwards.

7.  Cres

You’ll find yourself frequently bowled over by beauty on Cres, an archetypal Croatian island: its northern hills are consumed by oaky forests; cliffs stand, majestic, along the coastline; and crumbling hilltop towns provide a dose of transportative antiquity. You’ll probably discover your inner ornithologist, too – Cres is known for its population of griffons, and no sight is more spectacular than that of the fearsome bird spreading its wings and swooping out into the Adriatic sunset. 

8.  Pag

Pag is thin and 64 kilometres (40 miles) long, made up of two parallel mountain ranges. Settlements are mainly sleepy fishing villages, with two towns of any size, Novalja and Pag town. Novalja is a resort town that’s become party central. Zrće beach, a short bus ride away, is the biggest club hub in Croatia .

By contrast, the administrative and commercial centre of Pag town exudes cultural heritage. Narrow, fortified medieval streets weave beneath a 15th-century Gothic cathedral and the sun beats hard off the white stone pavement as local ladies painstakingly stitch Pag lace in doorways.

9.  Dugi Otok

The largest of the northern Dalmatian islands, Dugi Otok – which translates as Long Island – is… erm, long. 45km long to be precise, with a measly width of just 1 – 4km. Characterised by sheer cliffs and sandy beaches (the most famed is Sakuran), it’s a sliver of dramatic natural beauty, with its south-eastern quarter declared a National Park and its Telascica Bay generally agreed to be one of the most stunning Adriatic beaches. You can get there by fast boats from the mainland, and spend several days following trekking and cycling trails, scuba diving, climbing – or simply admiring the view from the comfort of a local restaurant. 

10.  Lošinj

Cres and Lošinj used to be one island until the ancient Liburni tribe dug a canal at Osor. The healthy effects of its sea breezes, clean water and 2,600 hours of annual sunshine earned Lošinj an official designation as a health resort in 1892. Habsburg royalty followed and now tourism is the island’s main industry. Activity centres around two towns with misleading labels. Mali Lošinj, ‘Small Lošinj’, is the bigger settlement, about four kilometres from quaint little Veli Lošinj, ‘Great Lošinj’.Mali Lošinj, the largest island town in the Adriatic, with a population of 7,000, is set around a long, wide harbour, lined with Habsburg-era facades. Strolling from one end of the harbour to the other takes 20 minutes – it’s a nice waterside lined with great hotels, restaurants and bars.

11.  Silba

Not one for those of you who get anger-induced headaches when trapped behind a slow walker in the street, this small, determinedly sleepy place has no cars, no hotels – and, between mid-July and late August – no bicycles either. You can ramble, you can amble, but you can’t go anywhere fast, and woozy relaxation is almost compulsory.

12.  Murter

Almost at opposite ends of the Dalmatian island of Murter are two settlements used as gateways to two extremely popular summer attractions. By the narrow channel to the mainland,  Tisno  is close to the festival site for music events such as Soundwave, Suncebeat and Electric Elephant. It was here that the legendary Garden club relocated its alfresco activities from Petrčane near Zadar. At the northern tip of Murter, the largest town of the same name is the main setting-off point for trips to the unique archipelago of the Kornati National Park, which has its main office there.

13.  Krk

If not the biggest island in the Croatian Adriatic, at least according to a recent survey, Krk is certainly on one of the busiest. Nearly 20,000 locals call this diverse island home, their forefathers subject to Roman, Avar, Frankopans, Venetian, Habsburg and Italian rule. The main town of Krk reflects much of this historic patchwork, panoramic Vrbnik is a little jewel, Malinska brims with quality gastronomy and the beaches of Baška soak up many of the summer visitor numbers.

The best of Croatia

43 incredible things to do in Croatia

• Things to do

Whatever you’re into, you’ll find your heaven in Croatia. Here’s our insider’s guide to the top places, activities and experiences for everyone from cinephiles and club addicts to ramblers and romantics. We’ve trawled the country to find the most invigorating, inspiring, pleasurable and fulfilling places, products and experiences on offer. Here's our pick of the best things to do in Croatia. Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. You can also find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world, or take a look at our list of the 50 best things to do in the world right now.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

• Work for Time Out
• Privacy policy
• Website terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies

Time Out Croatia

• Advertising
• Editorial enquiries

Time Out products

• Mobile applications
• Time Out Global

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

Croatia islands: the 15 best

By Jane Foster

The key to a perfect holiday? Dalmatians call it fjaka - a deliciously lazy mood of utter contentment. To help you find it, we've put together a hit list of the 15 best islands in Croatia , as chosen by a Croatia expert. For more inspiration once you're there, see our definitive list of the best beaches in Croatia or an expert guide to planning the ultimate Croatia island-hopping adventure.

Romanesque churches , walled monasteries, lush vineyards and pretty fishing villages. Joined to the mainland by an impressive bridge, Krk draws visitors from northern Croatia and beyond with its superb konobe (taverns) serving local specialities such as šurlice (handmade pasta) and Kvarner shrimps – reserve a table at Bracera in Malinska, or Rivica in Njivice. Walk or cycle hiking routes that follow time-worn donkey paths over fertile farmland and barren rocky slopes, stopping to explore the underground caverns of Biserujka Cave , sample Žlahtina white wine in the hill village of Vrbnik and swim at Baška.

**Insider's tip:**Call at family-run Utla near Malinska to taste their extra-virgin olive oils made from local Plominka olives.

Croatia 's trendiest island destination, Hvar Town sprawls around a sheltered harbour packed with yachts, a vast paved piazza with a baroque cathedral at its centre. Stroll along the palm-lined seafront promenade and up to the hilltop castle, then wander through cobbled alleys, packed with rustic-chic seafood restaurants (think lobster, champagne, and lavender ice cream), cocktail bars and boutiques stocking handmade jewellery and designer swimwear. Beyond the capital, the rural interior is a haze of lavender fields and vineyards – call at the Tomić winery in Jelsa to taste wines made from local grape varieties Bogdanuša, Pošip and Plavac Mali.

Insider's tip: For authentic home cooking, visit Konoba Lambik in Milna with tables on a stone terrace in an olive grove.

Overlooked by everyone from the Romans to tourists, Dugi Otok has space and silence to spare; both precious commodities in high summer . Its name means 'long island' in Croatian, and while itmeasures 45km in length, it’s only 4km at its widest point. Hilltop hamlets like Dragove shimmer in the heat haze like watercolours, while fishing villages such as Sali and Božava are bleached by a lazy sun. There are cliff-edge panoramas of empty Adriatic in the southern Telašćica Nature Park and white-pebble heaven on the lovely Saharun beach with its warm, shallow waters. Only later do you realise what's missing: traffic, people and noise.

Insider's tip: Dugi Otok is served by ferry and catamaran from Zadar to Božava, Brbinj, Sali and Zaglav. It's also possible to visit as a one-day excursion from Zadar .

Brač is blessed with the magnificent Zlatni Rat beach in the harbour town of Bol, Croatia's top windsurfing destination. The island appeals to adventurous types with its excellent water-sports facilities and well-marked hiking and cycling paths. Behind Bol rises Vidova Gora (780m), the highest point on the Croatian islands – climb to the top for astounding views. Brač's hilly interior supports sheep farming – dine on lamb, roasted whole on a spit, at the lovely Kaštil Gospodnetić in Dol – while the island's quarries have generated a population of skilled sculptors and you can visit the Stonemasonry School in Pušišća to see some of their work.

Insider's tip: Try stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) with Aldura in Sutivan on Brač's north coast.

Rising from the sparkling Adriatic, Croatia's most distant island is visited mainly by yachters, who moor up in Vis Town to feast on fresh fish at Villa Kaliopa or Pojoda (Don Cvjetka Marasovića 8; +385 21 711 575), or venture inland to Roki's (Plisko Poje 17; +385 98 303 483) for octopus slow-cooked under a peka (a metal domed-lid pot, buried under glowing embers). The Ancient Greeks settled Vis in the 4th century BC, attracted by fertile fields and sheltered bays, and under Yugoslavian rule it was a military naval base, closed to foreigners. Relative isolation has kept commercialism at bay, so the bounty of, local produce served at the island’s many tiny family restaurants is mostly organic.

Insider's tip: For guided hiking tours, contact Vis-based adventure sports specialists Alternatura .

Christened Felix Arba, ‘Happy Rab’, by the Romans, the greenest island in the Kvarner Gulf is a place of pinch-me beauty. Viewed from the sea, Rab Town has the look of a grand medieval galleon built of pale stone, with narrow, steep staircases in place of rigging and four elegant bell-towers for masts. A warren of terracotta-roofed mansions and Romanesque churches, its cobbled alleys are lit by flickering candles come nightfall. And the island's northern coast, near Lopar, is laced with sandy coves, a rarity in Croatia .

**Insider's tip:**Be sure to try Rapska torta, an almond cake unique to the island and said to have first been created when Pope Alexander III visited Rab in 1177.

Korčula Town, sitting compact on a tiny medieval-walled peninsula, reveals stone stairways, noble palazzi and a Gothic-Renaissance cathedral – seen from the sea, it has hardly changed since its most famous citizen, Marco Polo (said to have been born here), embarked on his voyages to the Orient. At dusk, watch a performance of the moreška sword dance, then head into the hills clad with pine woods, vineyards and olive groves, to Konoba Maha or Konoba Mate , two rustic agrotourism eateries serving island specialities made from home produce. To sample the local white, Pošip, visit the welcoming family-run Toreta Winery in Smokvica.

Insider's tip: Explore the Korčula archipelago by sea kayak with Korčurla Outdoor .

Combine urban culture and island escapism (as local nobles did in the 17th century, when they built summer villas here), by visiting Šipan (population 436), one of the Elafiti islets, connected to Dubrovnik's Gruž port by ferry and catamaran. Šipan's two main settlements, Suđurađ (on the east coast) and Šipanska Luka (on the west), both have tumbledown limestone cottages and villas lining sheltered bays filled with fishing boats and yachts. They're connected by a 5km rough track – hire a bike and cycle across the islet, past olive groves and orchards of orange, lemon, fig and carob.

Insider's tip: Eat at informal Konoba Kod Marka in Šipanska Luka – there's no menu but daily specials might include octopus fritters, fresh sea bass and divine homemade chocolate cake.

Jahnavi Bhatt

Anna Prendergast

Connor Sturges

Olivia Morelli

Homer eulogised this wave-washed island of Aleppo pine and holm oak in his Odyssey, and the World Wide Fund for Nature has named it among the last paradises in the Mediterranean. Mljet's northern third encompasses Mljet National Park , where two interconnected turquoise saltwater lakes are set amid dense woodland. Pomena, the entrance to the park, is just 80 minutes from Dubrovnik by catamaran. Climb up Montokuc for a view of aromatic pines cascading down to the silver-blue Adriatic, or hire a bike and peddle round Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) – in the middle rises a tiny islet, capped by a 12th-century Benedictine monastery, which you can visit by boat.

Insider's tip: Mljet's boutique Stara Skula Gallery hosts painting exhibitions and craft workshops.

An idyllic islet devoted entirely to glamping , Obonjan is served by private shuttle boat from Šibenik. It opened in 2016, and can host up to 700 glampers in its wooden forest lodges and canvas bell-tents under towering pines. There's a beach with sunbeds, straw parasols, DJ music, sea kayaks and SUPs; a spa offering holistic treatments; yoga and meditation classes; an outdoor pool; a stone amphitheatre for concerts; and several eating options, including pizza and Sri Lankan street food. It’s popular with hipsters and the concept is great but Obonjan's eco-credentials could be improved – after all, who needs air-conditioning when you're camping?

**Insider's tip:**While in Šibenik , be sure to explore the old town, with its Unesco-listed cathedral and a number of sturdy hillside fortresses.

Kornati islands

Incomparable to any other form of transport in Dalmatia, sailing is an absolute must for exploring the pristine waters of Kornati National Park . Encompassing 89 wild, rocky largely uninhabited islands, islets and reefs, it's named after the largest, sage-scented Kornat. Most visitors arrive by private yacht, and come here to drop anchor in one of its sheltered bays (several host simple waterside restaurants), and sunbathe, snooze and snorkel in a blissful blurry blue of endless sea and sky. While looking up, you might even spot rare peregrine falcons.

Insider's tip: On Kornat, fisherman Darko Šimat runs Konoba Darko Strižnja (+385 98 623 168), serving freshly caught seafood – on request, you can join him on an early-morning fishing trip.

Lošinj's main town, Mali Lošinj, sits at the end of a long narrow bay on this self-titled ‘island of vitality’. Once a busy shipyard filled with merchant vessels, its moorings are now home to yachts and excursion boats overlooked by 19th-century villas with gracious gardens, some now boutique hotels . Lošinj's natural attractions include the Aromatic Garden planted with lavender, sage, rosemary and other Mediterranean shrubs, and dolphin watching trips organised by the Blue World Institute, while the Apoxyomenos Museum displays an Ancient Greek bronze sculpture of an athlete, discovered nearby on the sea bed in 1996.

**Insider's tip:**Shop for essential oils, natural soaps, herbal teas and homemade jams at the Lošinj Aromatic Garden.

Sveti Klement

Southwest of Hvar Town (served by taxi-boat), the Pakleni archipelago is a scattering of islets covered in pine woods and sheltered coves, where yachters drop anchor to swim and snooze. The largest, Sveti Klement, is a real back-to-nature escape, with rough footpaths leading through lush Mediterranean vegetation to secluded pebble beaches , several overlooked by seasonal waterside restaurants and cafés. Best of all is Palmižana, an overgrown botanical garden of pines, palms, mimosa, lilies and fragrant herbs, plus a dozen quirky villas and bungalows – the owner, Dagmar, is a contemporary art collector, and her paintings adorn their boldly coloured walls.

Insider's tip: There's a small general store in the ACI sailing marina on Sveti Klement, where you can buy basics such as bottled water, bread, coffee and milk.

Pag with its bare, pale- pink hills, a landscape as silent and magical as any desert, is unique among the green-sloped Dalmatian islands. It was stripped of its forests by the Venetian Republic, to provide timbers for their galleons. Today, beaten by the harsh bura (northeast wind), it's linked to the mainland by a road bridge. Drive through the rocky moonscape to see hardy sheep grazing wild rosemary, and dine on Paški sir (Pag sheep's cheese) and juicy roast lamb . Through summer, suntanned revellers attend electronic music festivals at Zrće beach, and holidaymakers visit Pag Town with its salt pans and lace makers.

Insider's tip: Book a dairy tour with cheese-tasting at Gligora in Kolan, then buy rounds of cheese) direct from their farm shop.

Veliki Brijun

Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Sophia Loren, along with foreign politicians and royalty, were the glamorous guests entertained by Yugoslav President Tito on the islands of Veliki Brijuni, his beloved private summer retreat from 1945 to 1980. Veliki Brijun is the largest of 14 pine-scented islets within Brijuni National Park , and its beautifully maintained parkland reveals Roman archaeological remains. It’s also home to a number of exotic animals such as elephants, llamas, zebras and ostriches (given to Tito as gifts by visiting dignitaries from South America , Africa and Asia ), as well as deer and peacocks. It’s small enough to do some exploring on foot or there are golf buggies for rent, and a 3-star hotel offers overnight accommodation.

Insider's tip: If you're on Veliki Brijun in July, catch an after-dark open-air performance at Ulysses Theatre .

Like this? Now read...

The best beaches in Croatia

VIDEO: Istria, Croatia | Off the Beaten Track

Where was Mamma Mia 2 filmed?

The 11 Best Islands in Croatia

One of the most popular sections of the Visit Croatia site is our Top 10 Destinations in Croatia guide. This part of our site no doubt helps travellers choose some of the best places to visit in Croatia! We thought we’d continue this trend of the ‘best places’ to visit, so here’s our guide to the 11 Best Islands in Croatia. And we chose eleven because we couldn’t choose just ten!

Let’s start with what’s considered to be the chicest Croatian island, shall we? Hvar is as well known for its style as it is for its lavender and its sunshine; it often used to be claimed that the island was the sunniest place in Croatia. Whether it still is actually number one for sun or not, it certainly does achieve plenty of sunny hours – an average of 7.7 hours of sun per day throughout the whole year and about 2,800 hours in total.

Hvar is also pretty well known for its nightlife options – or rather, Hvar Town is, with a number of chi-chi clubs situated here. If that’s not your scene, there’s plenty else on Hvar to occupy you; consider staying in towns such as Stari Grad or Milna with their pretty harbours.

You’ll enjoy your time on Hvar, taking in the good cuisine, exploring the interior of lavender fields and perhaps partying it up at night too. Hvar is also only one hour away from Split (by catamaran) so it’s an easy hop from the mainland.

Korcula Town on Korcula is sometimes referred to as a ‘mini-Dubrovnik’ with its equally charming and very well preserved old town. It is supposedly also the birthplace of Marco Polo and you can even visit his ‘house’ there. As well as a wide variety of accommodation – some smart indeed – its lovely beaches offer up a mix of relaxation or adventure. Korcula is also well known for its wine, white wine in particular, from the Posip and Grk grape varities.

Lovely, lovely Vis has a rather different history to many of the islands featured here; for this reason, it certainly gives off a different vibe when you visit. Closed off to foreign visitors until 1989 (as it was used as a naval base after World War II), it was never part of the upsurge in foreign tourism that occurred elsewhere on Croatia’s coast and islands in the late 1970s and 1980s. The island is also the furthest away from the mainland, so perhaps isn’t considered as easy to reach as others. All of this means that Vis doesn’t have any built-up or overdeveloped tourist resorts; you’ll certainly get some tranquil time here.

You can spend a wonderfully relaxing time on Vis, exploring the coves and beaches; some of the naval/army base sights (should that be of interest!); and the flat interior of the small island. But Vis has also increased in ‘fame’ in the last few years. It was one of the filming location s for Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again. (Where it ‘stood in’ for a Greek island!).

We bet you’ll have already seen part of Brac even if you’ve never been there! The famous Zlatni Rat (‘Golden Horn’) Beach in Bol is the star of many a piece of literature or advertising on Croatia with its pebbled stretch of beach jutting out into the luminous blue sea. Brac is an excellent choice for families, with a number of family-friendly resorts and hotels amongst the main towns of Bol, Supetar, Sutivan and Milna. There’s also plenty of activities on offer for the sporty – Bol, in particular, is a very suitable spot for windsurfing. Hikers will adore heading up to Vidova Gora (the highest point on the island); you will be rewarded with amazing views across to the other islands.

Brac is also famous for its white stone – a material used to not only construct buildings on the mainland such as Sibenik’s cathedral and Diocletian’s Palace in Split.

Make sure you visit the impressive Blaca Hermitage inland, an entry on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

Mljet is another of Croatia’s islands to be declared one of Croatia’s eight national parks – or rather, the western third of it is. Another of Croatia’s islands to be covered in greenery, this laid-back place is the ideal spot for exploring by bike or even kayaking your way around a portion of it. Head to Veliko Jezero or Malo Jezero for calm spots for swimming and explore the Benedictine Monastery which (originally) stems from the 12th century. For those of you who like your legends, you can visit the cave (by sea) where Odysseus was supposedly trapped for seven years, having been shipwrecked here and charmed by the nymph Calypso.

Known for being an island that can offer its guests wellness and vitality, Losinj is also well known for its lush greenery. To that end, once upon a time, this place was a favoured holiday destination for Austro-Hungarian royalty. This pretty island is an excellent option for those wishing to holiday in the northern part of the Croatian coast – and on one of the less crowded islands at that. Mali Losinj is considered to have one of the prettiest harbours in the whole Croatian coastline, whilst the island as a whole is also renowned for its fragrant herbs.

What’s that Rab , you say you have some sandy beaches? Yes, it’s true! We know that sandy beaches are a big must for many holidaymakers, something that’s few and far between in Croatia. But if it’s really a major item on your wishlist, then consider Rab. Best known is Paradise Beach in the town of Lopar, with its wide expanse of sand dipping down into shallow waters – very suitable for those with young families. If that’s only of slight interest to you, can get your cultural fix in Rab Town with a number of historic sights from centuries past. Activity sports lovers will delight in the numerous hikes and bike paths available, especially through the forested parts of the island.

Pag is one of those places that has an unusual, rather eclectic mix of items that draw in visitors. Of course, we first have to mention its epic nightlife in the Zrce Beach area near Novalja. If you’re after nights (and days) filled with clubbing and some of the best festivals in Croatia, it’s here you should head to.

But if you’re not after any of that, there’s still plenty for you on this island. With its very unusual landscape – rather rocky and, unusual for a Croatian island, with little vegetation – it’s often described as ‘moon-like’. This makes it fascinating to explore. The island is also connected to the mainland by a bridge at its southern point so it’s easy to reach. (There’s also a ferry from the mainland to the north part of the island.)

The island is also famed for its lace-making and its sheep’s cheese (and also its salt production!). See, all rather eclectic, but all rather wonderful too!

I supposed we would cheat if you included the Elafiti Islands in this list seeing as they include multiple islands, right? So let us pick one island out of this group and do so by choosing Lopud . With a population of only 250 people, this tiny island close to Dubrovnik is entirely car-free. If you don’t feel like navigating your way around the forested island on foot (although, taking your time, this would be a chilled way of exploring), you can rent bikes or golf carts. Sunj Bay on the south-eastern side of the island provides a rare thing around these parts – a sandy beach; there’s a number of little eateries and cafes dotted around.

The imposing Franciscan Monastery is one of the first sights you see as you approach Lopud; these days, having been fully restored, it is now possible to rent this out for a private, rather luxurious, stay.

Off the coast of northern Dalmatia, close to Zadar, Dugi Otok is another island with a small population that makes for a relaxing trip. This island is ideal for visiting as a day trip from Zadar, or for longer; if you have your own set of wheels, you can really explore to your heart’s content, particularly the beaches. Saharun Beach with its shallow, stunningly shimmering waters, is the top draw around these parts. Telascica Nature Park at the southern part of the island will be of interest to nature lovers; there’s an abundance of animal and plant life here, as well as the salt-water Lake Mir.

Lastovo is one of the smallest and quietest islands featured on this list. Like Vis, the island was also closed off to foreigners until 1988 as it was used as an army base. Its slightly distant position in the Adriatic – it takes 3 hours by catamaran or 4+ hours by ferry from Split, or 3/4 hours from Dubrovnik – and its size means it’s quite an ‘off the beaten track’ kind of island, with fewer amenities, accommodation, restaurants than others. That, of course, may be a big plus for you! Lastovo and its surrounding islands make up the Lastovo Islands Nature Park , one of eleven nature parks in Croatia ; it is also covered in gorgeous green forests. The island is also known for having one of the most beautiful starry skies in the whole of Europe.

Which is the best island for me?

Having read the above, you may have decided which of the best islands in Croatia is perfect for you. However, in reality, you’d probably like to visit one or two…or all of them? We’re sure that you’d like to experience a mix of what the above islands can offer and, really, combining several islands into your holiday in Croatia is one of the best ways of really getting a feel for the country.

So why not base yourself on one of the above islands for your trip to Croatia; then explore others in the local area on day trips? For example, if you’re staying on Hvar you could easily visit Brac and/or Vis.

Then, save the other islands for a future holiday to Croatia!

More on the Best Islands in Croatia

We have a full guide to all of the islands mentioned above – and more besides – in our Croatian Islands section. Give it a read to find the Croatian island that fits the bill for you!

If you’re after some more visual inspiration of the best islands in Croatia, take a look at our albums

• Photos of Vis
• Photos of Hvar

More on Visit Croatia

About Visit Croatia

Contact Visit Croatia

Buy us a coffee!

Cookie Policy

Privacy Policy

Updated daily

New & Updated on Visit Croatia

Obonjan Bol Porec Two Days in Zagreb Slano Museums in Dubrovnik How to do Croatia on a Budget Two Days in Split Nin Campsites in Croatia Shopping in Zagreb City Break in Croatia Two Days in Pula Family Holidays in Croatia 15 Things You May Not Know About Croatia Two Days in Zadar Koprivnica

Useful information on Croatia

Money in Croatia Visa Requirements for Croatia Buses in Croatia Ferries in Croatia Top Ten Destinations in Croatia Map of Croatia About Croatia

The Top 10 Islands to Visit in Croatia

The 1246 islands and islets dotting the Croatia's Adriatic coastline come in all shapes, sizes and topographies, and each has a unique vibe. Some have been firmly stationed on the tourist circuit for decades, while others are less-visited and offer a quieter scene. With rising tourist numbers, many are increasingly catering to luxury travelers and offering “boutique” experiences, while others are still delightfully low-key , with few swanky resorts and high-end hotels, and a more authentic vibe.

There's certainly plenty to entice visitors: tidy pebble and sand beaches lapped by transparent turquoise waters, fascinating historical towns and rustic villages, some of the world's best sailing , miles of walking and cycling trails, and excellent local cuisine, wine and olive oil. The difficult journey is part of the draw: since most Croatian islands can only be reached by boat or ferry, there's that Robinson Crusoe feeling of embarking on a great adventure. Not sure which island is for you? Here are the 10 top islands to visit in Croatia.

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Boasting an average of 2718 hours of sunshine a year, Hvar is the sunniest of the islands of the Dalmatian coast. It's also the swankiest and a magnet for Hollywood stars: Clint Eastwood, Michael Douglas, Kevin Spacey, Brad Pitt, John Malkovich, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jodie Foster, George Clooney and Jack Nicholson have all vacationed here. Hvar Town has also become a party destination, attracting many international revelers thanks to its plethora of trendy bars and clubs located in the harbor area. For a quieter scene, head to the scenic port towns of Jelsa and Stari Grad. 

Brač is best known for its magnificent Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach that looks like a long protruding finger extending into the sea. Don't expect sand — you'll find fine pebbles instead and it's hard to resist diving into the see-straight-to-bottom aquamarine waters. Along with beach lovers, this is a popular destination with wind surfers, and the island's proximity to the mainland makes it popular with day-trippers. At 2552 feet, Vidova Gora is highest peak of all the Adriatic islands. A climb to the top is rewarded with unparalleled views over the entire island and nearby Hvar.

Charming Korčula Town is a big draw with visitors. Exceptionally well-preserved 15 th century ramparts encircle the compact old town made up of narrow lanes arranged in a fish bone pattern and lined with medieval stone buildings. The interior of the island hides quiet, scenic villages surrounded by olive groves, vineyards and wineries run by local producers where the island's Grk, Pošip and Rukatac varieties of white wine can be sampled. For beach lovers, there are plenty of pebble beaches as well as sandy ones: Vela Pržina, Bilin Zal and Tatinja on the island's eastern tip have beaches of fine sand. 

Arid and rocky Pag is one of the few Croatian islands to be connected to the mainland via a bridge, but there are ferry services to nearby Rab island and to Rijeka further north on the mainland. Most of Pag's inhabitants are of the sheep variety who feed on the island's wild herbs and provide the distinctively sharp cheese Pag is known for. Also produced here is sea salt and a dry Žutica white wine. Meanwhile Zrce beach and its open air nightclubs and summer music festivals are a huge draw for the party crowd.

This remote island is one of the furthest from the Croatian mainland and was completely closed to visitors when it served as a military base up to 1983. Today, it's one of the less explored and less developed islands in terms of tourist infrastructure — which makes it particularly visit-worthy. Nature lovers will be awed by the stunning natural landscapes: the cliffs encircling Stiniva cove and beach create a surreal setting, and a popular attraction is the Blue Cave on the nearby islet of Biševo. Every day just before noon the sun's rays enter the cave and reflect off its limestone walls, creating an eerie, glowing blue light. Vis Town has a pleasant waterfront promenade and is the island's first settlement, while picturesque Komiža is a fishing village of stone houses set on a secluded bay.

Lush and unspoiled Mljet doesn't get the crowds of some of the better-known Dalmatian islands. The isle has only 19 settlements, most of which are small but scenic fishing villages. 15 th century Okuklje is set in a horseshoe-shaped bay and is the oldest coastal settlement in Croatia. Taking up the western section of the island is Mljet National Park, covering an area of 20 square miles and mostly covered with forests of holm oaks and Aleppo pines. Most notable are two brilliant blue seawater lakes Malo Jezero (Small Lake) and Veliko Jezero (Great Lake) connected via a narrow channel. The 12 th century Benedictine monastery and St. Mary's Church located on Veliko Jezero are the park's most visited attractions.

“On the last day of Creation God desired to crown His work, and thus created the Kornati islands out of tears, stars and breath.” This is what George Bernard Shaw had to say about this group of islands after a visit in 1929. Covering an area of 124 square miles, this is a dense archipelago of 140 mostly barren islands and islets, 89 of which make up Kornati National Park . The only way to explore this spectacular maze of islands and reefs is of course on a sail boat, which can easily be rented along with a captain. The park office also organizes daily tours during the tourist season that include lunch and a guide. For sailing, diving and snorkeling enthusiasts it's as close as you can get to paradise.

Located in the north Adriatic, Rab is a relatively small island covering only 36 square miles but is big on appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Its northern ridge is marked by hiking trails leading to viewpoints with panoramic vistas over neighboring islands and the Velebit mountain chain on the mainland. The forested Dundo peninsula offers a series of marked paths for cyclists while the beaches of golden sand of the Lopar peninsula on the island's north-eastern tip are a big draw for sun seekers. The aptly-named Paradise beach is especially popular with families, but there are plenty of secluded coves, some of which are clothing optional. Atmospheric Rab Town and its pedestrian-only lanes are a delight to explore: climb the 85-foot-high bell tower of St. Mary's Church for jaw-dropping 360-degree views over its terracotta rooftops.

You won't find any boutique retreats or luxury resorts on Cres, but you will encounter diverse and untouched landscapes of rocky mountains and forests of oak and pine, as well as delightful port and hilltop towns. With few inhabitants, medieval Beli and Lubenice are ghost towns of a time past: the spectacular sea views from here have definitely not changed, while their stone facades and cobblestone lanes have been preserved for years to come. In contrast, the cheerful port towns of Valun and Cres Town are painted with colorful facades and their sea-facing promenades lined with cafes, while quaint Osor is full of neat rose gardens, hidden courtyards, and stone cottages. Be sure to try the island's excellent olive oil which has EU protected status.

The local tourist office's motto is the 'island of vitality' and there's no shortage of hotels here featuring spas and treatments as part of their wellness packages. The many holiday resorts dating back to Communist times are getting face lifts and upgrades, as the island rebrands itself as a luxury wellness destination. The best way to explore the island is on foot or by bicycle: there are over 150 miles of marked trails to choose from. A highlight is the 1929-foot climb to the top of Osoršćica mountain from where there are panoramic views over neighboring islands, and even as far away as the Slovenian Alps. The colorful port towns of Veli Lošinj and Mali Lošinj are must-visits for their laid back vibe and many waterside cafes.

The Top Destinations to Visit in Croatia

The Top 10 Things to Do in Split, Croatia

'Mamma Mia!' Filming Locations: The Complete Guide

The Top 10 Things to Do and See on Hvar

One Week in the Peloponnese: The Perfect Itinerary

18 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

Mediterranean Cruise Maps

Top Italian Islands for Your Next Vacation

The Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik, Croatia

The 15 Best Destinations in Italy

The 17 Best Islands in Thailand

The 14 Best Beaches in India

15 Best Islands in the US

The 7 Best Islands to Visit in Germany

Top UK Destinations for Stone Circles and Ancient Sites

The Top 23 Things to Do in Italy

17 Best Islands in Croatia to Visit This Year

When planning an itinerary for your Croatia trip, you must wonder whether to visit any of the islands in Croatia. And since the answer is Yes, you must think about which island in Croatia you should visit. 

Well, don’t worry! In this post, we list the 17 best Croatian islands to visit this year! 

Dubbed the land of 1000 islands, Croatia has so many islands that it can take years to visit them all. However, only about 78 of these islands are real islands, 47 of them are inhabited, and only 15 of them are over 50 km2 big with at least 1000 inhabitants. The rest of the islands are actually islets, rocks, and reefs. 

You won’t find many countries in the world where ferries are such an integral part of locals’ everyday life. Islands in Croatia are like small countries, they are all unique in their own way with a different vibe. Although they all boast wonderful landscapes, numerous beaches, mistrustful locals, small villages, olive orchards, and terraced vineyards, they also differ one from another in so many ways.

Whether you are looking for a laid-back vibe, relaxing beach time, partying, or active holidays with your family or friends, there is an island in Croatia to suit your needs. 

Hvar is the trendiest and the most popular Croatian island . 

Brač is the best island for families with children. 

A cool vibe, beautiful beaches, yummy food, quirky history, and lack of big full-service resorts make Vis one of the best Croatian islands for couples . 

Šolta is one of the best islands to visit near Split . 

Korčula, dubbed the Emerald Island, is one of the most beautiful Croatian islands . 

Croatia’s greenest island , Mljet attracts visitors with its wonderful nature, dense forests, ample hiking opportunities, turquoise sea, and overall tranquility. 

Elafiti islands are the best islands near Dubrovnik . 

The southernmost permanently inhabited island in Croatia, Lastovo is a perfect island for those in search of off-the-beaten-path destinations and “away from it all” type of holidays!

Connected with the mainland by the bridge, the north Adriatic island of Krk is the most visited island in Croatia.

The least developed and the least populated yet the largest Croatian island, Cres is one of the best islands in Croatia for beaches . 

Dubbed Vitality Island, Losinj is t he best island in Croatia for well-being and recharging your energy.

Susak, an island made entirely of sand deposits, is one of the smallest inhabited islands in Croatia .

If summer for you means music, dancing, and clubbing until the wee hours, then Pag Island is the best party island in Croatia .

Rab Island’s many sandy beaches make it a perfect island in Croatia for families with small children.

Dugi Otok, a gateway to Kornati National Park, attracts nature and outdoor enthusiasts in search of active holidays.

Many summer festivals take place on the island of Murter during the summer, making it along with Pag, a popular party island in Croatia.

The Kornati archipelago is a real natural wonder full of hidden coves, lovely beaches, and great restaurants. The archipelago is a dream destination for all sea lovers and sailing aficionados.

Table of Contents

Great for everything!

Hvar is the trendiest and the most popular Croatian island. It is a great place to spend your holidays and a regular stop on all itineraries for first-time visitors to Croatia.

Hvar has it all: beautiful beaches, easy access from the mainland, natural beauty, great tourist infrastructure, good restaurants, quality wines, charming coastal towns, historical sites, clubbing scenes in Hvar Town, and loads of activities for people of all ages.

Why visit: For all the reasons listed above. It appeals to everybody.

Where to stay: Places by Valamar , Heritage suites Zanini , or Villa Riva

Where to eat: Konoba Kokot , Black Pepper

Great for family!

With its lovely beaches, family-friendly hotels, low-key outdoor activities, and very safe environment, Brac is an ideal island for families with children to spend their holidays.

However, Brac also attracts couples with its wineries , hiking and cycling trails, and adults-only boutique hotels.

We also like Brac for its proximity to the mainland, its cultural heritage, and yummy food.

Why visit: Zlatni rat is the most renowned of all beaches in Croatia, and it is featured on so many best beaches in the world lists.

Where to stay: Elaphusa Hotel Bol for families, Lemongarden hotel for couples

Where to eat: Konoba Kopacina , Konoba Toni

Great for couples!

We would move to Vis permanently. That’s how much we love it.

A cool vibe, beautiful beaches, yummy food, quirky history, and lack of big full-service resorts make Vis one of the best Croatian islands for couples. 

Vis used to be a military base for the Yugoslav army and thus entirely closed off for foreigners for more than 4 decades.

Due to this fact alone, it’s still a bit underdeveloped. Its lack of big hotels keeps the summer crowds low compared with other central Dalmatian islands.

Why visit: If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination where you can relax and recharge (although this is changing lately as foreign tourists start discovering Vis)

Where to stay: Hotel San Giorgio , Apartments Villa Anka

Where to eat: Mala Travna , Pojoda , Roki’s

Great for a day trip from Split!

Šolta is one of the best islands to visit near Split. In the past, a popular curse in Split was I hope you end up on Šolta Island. As you can imagine, traveling or living on Šolta wasn’t that popular. However, those days are long gone and today not only that Šolta attracts tons of visitors, especially yachtsmen, but it is also a place for locals to get away from hustle and bustle of Split. 

Šolta’s coast is very indented, and it hides wonderful bays, coves, and unspoiled beaches. 

Why visit: Šolta is still pretty much intact, especially when you wander to its outer shores; the island’s proximity to Split  Where to stay: Heritage Hotel Martinis Marchi , Apartments Villa Lemony , Hotel Paradise Punta Where to eat: Pasarela , Volat

Great for foodies!

Korčula, dubbed the Emerald Island, is one of the most beautiful Croatian islands. It is also one of the southernmost islands in Croatia, and one of the closest to the mainland. The crossing takes only 20 minutes.

With stunning landscapes, historic towns, great local wine, lovely secluded beaches, crystal clear sea in all shades of blue, and yummy food, Korčula is a great place to visit for couples, or generally for all food and wine lovers.

Some also argue it’s one of the best and the most chilled places in Croatia, and we don’t object!

Why visit: yummy food and great wines, natural beauty

Where to stay: Aminess Lume Hotel , The Fabris Luxury Inn , Korcula Hill Apartments

Where to eat: Konoba Mate , Konoba Pagar , Ignis Tapas Bar , Konoba Skafeti , Konoba Maslina

Great for hiking!

Croatia’s greenest island, Mljet attracts visitors with its wonderful nature, dense forests, ample hiking opportunities, turquoise sea, and overall tranquility. A northern part of Mljet has been a protected national park since 1960, and it’s pretty much the only area that attracts lots of visitors. The rest of the island doesn’t feel crowded, not even at the peak of the summer. Thus, it’s a perfect place to visit if you are on the lookout for some peace and quiet, delightful swims, lovely hikes, and fresh seafood. Why visit: nature, hiking, swimming, and snorkeling Where to stay: Apartments Lampalo ,  Villa Radulj Where to eat: Marijina Konoba , Stermasi

Elafiti Islands

Great for a day trip from Dubrovnik

Located just slightly northwest of Dubrovnik, Elafiti islands are the best islands near Dubrovnik. 

Often visited on a day trip from Dubrovnik, the Elafiti Islands consist of 13  islands and islets. Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan are the three main inhabited islands. Kolocep and Lopud are car-free. 

Visiting Elafiti is like stepping back in time. Quaint villages with very few tourists and basic tourist infrastructure, peace and quiet, secluded bays, sandy beaches on Lopud Island, olive groves, kayaking, hiking, and some seriously good restaurants like Bowa or Villa Ruza, are the reasons people visit Elafiti.

Why visit: easy to visit from Dubrovnik, tranquility, sea kayaking

Where to stay: Hotel Bozica , Kalamota Beach House , Skipper’s Suite

Where to eat: BOWA Restaurant , Restaurant Obala , Villa Ruza

Great for away from it all type of holidays!

Lastovo is the southernmost permanently inhabited island in Croatia. It is also one of the most remote, and quite isolated Croatian islands and one of the least visited. It is popular among boating enthusiasts, but not so much among other visitors to Croatia.

Lastovo is beautiful, though. Its archipelago has been declared a protected nature park back in 2006. One fun fact about Lastovo is that it is marked by the number 46. Its archipelago consists of 46 islands, islets rocks, and reefs. Island’s surface is 46 km2. There are 46 small churches in the archipelago. The island has only five settlements. And it is one of the best star-gazing places in Europe due to the low light pollution on the island. With its rocky and steep shores, hilly interior, scattered villages, and few visitors, Lastovo is still wild and untamed. The sound of crickets, and the smell of the sea, pines, and immortelles, truly remind me of the Mediterranean as it once was. Why visit: natural beauty, authentic holidays away from it all, peace and quiet Where to stay: Villa Maria Apartments , Apartments Vesna Where to eat: Podanje , Konoba Bacvara

Great for the first-time island experience!

Krk is the second largest island in Croatia. It is located in the northern Adriatic region of Kvarner, only 30 km south of Rijeka. 

The Krk Bridge connects the island with the mainland. Rijeka International Airport is located on Krk Island. This makes Krk easily accessible whether you decide to travel by plane or by car.

Krk truly has it all for a perfect vacation for visitors of all ages and travel styles, from quaint villages, historical towns, rich cultural heritage, many cycling and hiking trails, some of the best beaches in Croatia, great wines, and good restaurants. Add to that a great tourist infrastructure, Krk’s proximity to Slovenia, Austria, Northern Italy, and south Germany (all within 5 hour drive), and you will understand why Krk is the most visited Croatian island.

Why visit: easy access by car or plane, proximity to many central European towns, a good and varied tourist offer, good tourist infrastructure

Where to stay: Jezevac Premium Camping Resort , Rooms N Stara Baska , Hotel Villa Margaret

Where to eat: Konoba Pod prevolt , Restaurant Rivica

Great for beaches!

Oh, how we love Cres! Cres is one of the least developed and least populated islands in Croatia, and yet is the biggest of all Croatian islands. Visited mainly by sailing and camping aficionados from Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, Austria, and Germany, Cres will charm you with its numerous wild beaches, often only accessible by boat or on foot, vast spaces, hiking and cycling trails, small hilltop villages, and olive groves. Why visit: for beaches and if you need to unwind Where to stay: Art Farm Filozici or camping Kovacine mobile homes Where to eat: Art Farm Filozici

Great for wellness!

Losinj is another one of the north Adriatic islands, along with Cres, Krk, and Rab.

Since the 19th century, Losinj has been known as a vitality island. The slogan that the island proudly carries to this day!

Covered in a thick pine forest, abounding in Mediterranean plants and herbs, and surrounded by the sea, Losinj is a perfect destination for all those who want to improve their health, or simply recharge.

The island has lots of hiking trails, numerous coves, bays, and beaches, some of the best hotels in Croatia, a bottlenose dolphin observatory, and a sea turtle rescue center.

Why visit: for well-being and to recharge, to see the dolphins in the wild, and simply to enjoy the sea

Where to stay: Hotel Bellevue , Boutique Hotel Alhambra , campsite Cikat

Where to eat: Japanese restaurant Matsunoki , Restaurant Corrado

Great to unwind!

Susak must be one of the smallest inhabited islands in Croatia. And it is also the only Croatian island entirely made of sand deposits and covered with reeds and vines.

This car-free island has only one village and not a single hotel or a campsite, and it is a perfect place to unwind.

You can also visit Susak on a day trip from Pula or Mali Losinj.

Beaches are sandy!

Why visit: sandy beaches, to unwind

Where to stay: You won’t have much choice – Sansego Suites

Where to eat: Again not much choice, konoba Barbara is your best bet

Great for partying!

Pag is the strangest place you might visit in your lifetime. And the closest place to what the planet Mars might look like. In fact, the most popular hiking trail on the island boasts The life on Mars name. The north part of the island is made of pure stone, with no trees nor bushes, only low-lying lavender, immortelle, and other aromatic herbs.

Pag is the most popular party island in Croatia. 

Zrće beach, close to the town of Novalja, is a popular tourist destination for the young and restless. Zrće Beach, a party beach with the best clubbing scene in all of Croatia , offers 24/7 parties from May through September in Kalypso, Ice Bar, Papaya, Aquarius, or Noa beach clubs.

But Pag also features a crystal-clear sea, beautiful beaches, Lun’s olive gardens, and one of Croatia’s best cheeses.

Why visit: Clubbing and summer festivals at the Zrce beach, but also for relaxed family holidays, or active outdoor vacation.

Where to stay: Hotel Boskinac

Where to eat: Restaurant Boskinac

Great for small children!

Dubbed “the Happy Island” Rab is a perfect choice for families with small children due to its sandy beaches and shallow waters.

No other place in Croatia has so many sandy beaches as Rab Island has! Although less popular than its northern neighbors, Losinj, and Krk, Rab still attracts a fair amount of crowds.

The other attractions include a lovely, historic town of Rab with its four churches, Dundo reserve, a dense holm-oak forest, one of the best-preserved in the whole Mediterranean, and a must-try Rab cake made of almonds, lemon and orange zest, and maraschino liqueur.

Why visit: Sandy beaches, history and culture, and lovely landscapes are some of Rab’s forte. However, it’s also a great place to unwind, take interesting day trips, hike, and explore hidden bays and coves.

Where to stay: Padova Premium Camping Resort , Imperial Valamar Collection Hotel , Vintage Holiday Home

Where to eat: Konoba Rab , Restaurant More , Restaurant Sampjer

Great for adventure!

With its striking cliffs, sandy beaches, remote villages, protected nature park Telasica, and numerous bays, Dugi Otok attracts a fair share of nature and outdoor enthusiasts in search of active holidays. Whether you enjoy cycling, sea kayaking, snorkeling, diving, swimming, rock, or big game fishing, Dugi Otok is the place to be! The island is also a great gateway to visiting Kornati National Park. Why visit: for outdoor activities, especially water activities, to relax far from the crowds Where to stay: Gorgonia Apartments and Suites , Villa Nai 3.3 Where to eat: Gorgonia Grill , Konoba Trapula

Great for summer festivals!

With a surface of fewer than 20 km2 and a population of only 5000 people, Murter is, believe it or not, the largest island in the Sibenik archipelago.

The island of Murter is conveniently connected with the mainland by a bridge.

It is known for summer festivals, for its beautiful sandy and pebbly beaches, and as a gateway to Kornati national park – making it one of the favorite destinations for sailing aficionados.

Why visit: Summer festivals, taking place in the town of Tisno, are some of the best in Croatia!

Where to stay: Golden Haven Luxe Glamp Resort , Villa Ena

Where to eat: Konoba Boba

Great for sailing!

Watching the Kornati only on photos, I couldn’t understand what all fuss was about. Croatia has so many beautiful islands and Kornati, from that perspective, looked to me just like naked rocks.

Anyways fast forward to 2017 when I visited them for the first time. And oh boy, was I wrong!

Kornati is one of the most stunning places I have seen in my life (and I’ve seen quite a fair share in my 25 years of professional sailing all over the world).

The only way to visit and get to know Kornati Islands is by boat. This most indented archipelago in the Mediterranean is a maze of 89 islands, islets, and reefs. Due to the strong winds that blow here, the islands have very scarce vegetation, and they truly look like from another planet.

Why visit: Lovely landscapes, great swimming and snorkeling, the best sailing spot in Croatia, and good food

Where to stay: Holiday Home Queen of Kornati , Glamping Resort Festa

Where to eat: Konoba Levrnaka , Restaurant Festa

We hope you have a better idea of the islands in Croatia, and which one can fit your travel style. As always, if you have any questions, let us know in the comments section below.

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Destinations In Croatia / 17 Best Islands in Croatia to Visit This Year

1 thought on “17 Best Islands in Croatia to Visit This Year”

Hey Frank, thanks a lot for your valuable insights and posts about Croatia! Thanks to your blog we have managed to plan our trip to Croatia last year despite all the covid restrictions. This year we will be coming back to Croatia! We will be spending some time first in Dubrovnik and afterwards in Split. We would also love to spend some time on croatian islands. At this point of time I have in mind Vis and Hvar. However, I was wondering is it better to stay on one island and get a ferry to another island and have more like a day trip? Or should we spend couple of days on both islands? Would appreciate any tips/thoughts. Thanks :)

Leave a Comment

Croatia Travel Guides

Your one-stop travel guide for Croatia

Beach Holidays , Where To Go · May 1, 2020

12 Best Islands In Croatia To Visit

Islands line the entire coast of Croatia, facing the Adriatic Sea. There are about a thousand islands in Croatia including isles, and inlets — all surrounded by crystal blue waters, with some of them uninhabited. Croatia is definitely more than its picturesque old towns, ancient architecture and historic structures, as its islands offer so much to visitors.

Each with a distinct character and landscape, these islands should be part of your itinerary when visiting Croatia. Here are some of the best islands in Croatia to help you figure out where to go.

1. Kornati Island

Located just off the Zadar coast and composed of 147 islands in the Zadar archipelago, is the Kornati Islands. It is also called the Kornati National Park and founded primarily to protect and preserve marine life, with most of the islands in it uninhabited.

There was a time when the islands had Roman villas and farms, but at present only had caves and cliffs, therefore preserving its natural rugged beauty. The Kornati is popular among yachters, scuba divers and boat tours, and one of the more unique islands you’ll visit in Croatia.

Contact Information

Phone: +385 (22) 435740

Address: Kornati National Park Butina 2 22243 Murter Croatia

Email: [email protected]

2. Hvar Island

Hvar simply has everything — pristine beaches , gently rolling hills, lush vineyards, trendy restaurants and shops, and a vibrant nightlife. It simply is the perfect island getaway in Croatia and perhaps, the rest of Europe. It is often called as Croatia’s Marbella or St. Tropez, only Hvar has a distinct character that keeps visitors coming back for more.

Aside from its usual holiday spots, Hvar also has charming villages and medieval streets perfect for leisurely strolls, as well as verdant lavender fields you can get lost in. Go here on a day trip or better yet, an entire week. Hvar simply won’t disappoint.

3. Mljet Island

The lovely green island of Mljet, is also home to 5,400 hectares of space that makes up the Mljet National Park. The island is located in the southern part of Croatia, and among its main attractions are the bodies of water in and around it.

There are the Great and Small lakes, small bays and the nearby St. Mary island which is home to a Benedictine monastery. This island is easily accessible by a ferry that originates from Dubrovnik or the Peljesac peninsula, and ideal for hiking, cycling, swimming, and snorkeling.

There are also accommodations available if you want to spend more than a day here, as it’s quite massive and several hours simply won’t be enough to really explore Mljet.

4. Krk Island

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Office de Tourisme de Croatie (@croatietourisme) on Jul 31, 2019 at 8:21am PDT

Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Krk is often called the ‘golden island’. This island with a diverse landscape is also the closest to Western Europe. Krk has a barren northern end, while the southern end has bays and beaches.

The inland has ferries fields and rocky hills which are ideal for growing grapes. Krk is also a great spot if you want to go jet skiing, paragliding, scuba diving, and waterskiing. The island has campgrounds and resorts you can stay at if you wish to stay longer.

5. Brac Island, Croatia

Situated near the Split coast, the island of Brac is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist destinations. A go-to spot for windsurfers and beach lovers, Brac is also known for its stunning beaches such as the Zlatni Rat, which is shaped like a finger extending into the sea.

A day in this island simply won’t be enough as there’s a lot to see and do in Brac . There’s the Dragon’s cave on the island’s southern end, the museum in the Škrip village, and the Vidova Gora Mountain, which is the tallest mountain in the area. You can also enjoy water sports here, or visit caves and pebbled beaches.

6. Pag Island, Croatia

Pag is one of the few islands in Croatia that’s connected to the mainland by a bridge. This arid and rocky area is mostly inhabited by sheep who feed on the island’s grass and wild herbs, which gives the cheese they produce that distinct taste it is known for.

Pag cheese is one of the island’s best products, as well as sea salt and dry Žutica white wine. Pag is also known for its open-air night clubs and summer music festivals along the Zrce beach.

7. Elaphiti

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tiago Marsili Fricke (@worldglimpses) on Jul 29, 2019 at 10:13am PDT

Located off the coast of Dubrovnik , Elaphiti Islands is the ideal quick getaway if you wanted a respite from the hustle and tourist traffic of the nearby city.

It is made up of islands that mostly have lush, unspoiled landscapes or quiet pristine beaches like Sipan and Lapud. Elaphiti is also home to some of Croatia’s best beaches such as Sunj Bay.

8. Rab Island, Croatia

Located off the northwest coast of Croatia is Rab, which is the most densely wooded among all Croatian islands.

Rab is home to a rich and diverse flora, which includes non-native plants. A lot of these species are found in Komrcar Park, which is also among the island’s best tourist spots. The park is also home to a century-old agave.

The island has more than 300 freshwater springs, making this one of the greenest islands in the Adriatic. Rab is considered as one of the best islands in Croatia at any time of the year as it only gets mild winters and warm summers.

The name Korcula translates to ‘dark Corfu’ which is given by the Greeks because of the island tangled woods and resemblance to Corfu, off the northern coast of Greece.

It is also known as a historical island with Gothic Romanesque architecture and is said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo.

You can even visit the Marco Polo house and museum here. Aside from its rich heritage and history, there are several things to do in Korcula . Korcula is also home to its own crisp white wine which is made from Posip grape.

Cres is a charming island made up mostly of rocky mountains and lush oak and pine forests mixed with quaint medieval villages and port towns.

There are no boutique hotels or luxury resorts here, but you’ll enjoy walking along the cobbled lanes and looking at the well-preserved architecture in Beli and Lubenice villages.

The vibrant port towns of Valun and Cres has sea-facing promenades lined with cafes and shops, while Osor has pretty rose gardens, secret courtyards, and cottages made of stone. Make sure you also buy some of Cres’ famous olive oils which have EU protected status.

The island of Vis is known mostly for Stiniva, which was named as the 2016 best beach in Europe.

A military base up until 1983, Vis is the farthest island from the mainland of Croatia. It is pretty remote and unspoilt, and its most popular beach Stiniva isn’t easily accessible either.

Vis has dramatic cliffs and caves you can explore, as well as a lovely port town with a pretty waterfront promenade. There’s also the fishing village Komiža, with its picturesque stone houses situated on a secluded bay.

Vis may be far from the mainland, but it is still a popular stop for those cruising along the Croatian islands as well as music festival lovers.

12. Dugi Otok

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Croatianized (@croatianized) on Jul 31, 2019 at 2:17am PDT

Dugi Otok means ‘Long Island’, but it’s actually the largest in the northern Dalmatian coast. It is accessible by boat from the mainland and is home to a national park located in its southeastern quarter as well as the Telascica Bay, regarded as one of the best beaches in the Adriatic.

Made up mostly of dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches, Dugi Otok is a haven for trekkers, bikers, scuba divers or simply enjoying the scenic, mostly unspoilt views while enjoying some hearty Croatian dish in one of its quaint restaurants.

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

National Parks In Croatia – Guide And Tips For First-Time Visitors

Trending now.

Become an Insider

Join Croatia Travel Guides' mailing list for exclusive content, tips, & giveaways.

Hello there! Welcome to Croatia Travel Guides. CTG aims to help travelers find their way for the first time in Croatia. We are your one-stop travel guide for all things Croatia.

• Things To Do
• Food and Culture
• Where To Go
• Where To Stay
• Travel Guides
• Privacy Policy
• Disclaimer and Disclosure

Copyright © 2024 Croatia Travel Guides · Theme by 17th Avenue

Copyright © 2024 · Mia on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

CroatiaSpots

CroatiaSpots – An Insider’s Guide to Croatia

Home » Island Hopping in Croatia

Island Hopping in Croatia

Island-hopping in Croatia is a very popular way of seeing the islands and coastal towns on this side of the beautiful Adriatic coastline . You can island hop from several main points on the mainland and create itineraries depending on the length of stay and your particular interest. Visiting the Croatian Adriatic’s islands is great for watching lovely seascapes and nature while travelling between numerous towns and villages along the coast.

Table of Contents

Planning Croatian Island Hopping Holiday

Some of the practical questions you might have while planning island hopping in Croatia are answered below:

• who are the different ferry operators?
• how do I buy tickets for Croatian ferries?
• what do I need to do at the ferry terminal?
• what is it like to be onboard a Croatian ferry?
• are there any organised island hopping tours?

Which transport to use

The best way to get around the islands is either by car, on foot or by bicycle. The islands are not connected with trains. Beside ferries, sometimes you can also include some bus routes to add to your itinerary if the timings offer better connections then local ferries.

Croatia Hotels - Book Now!

There are several ferry companies that run ferries as a public transport along the Croatian coast including car and foot passenger ones. Most of the tickets are bookable online or you can book them on the spot, once you arrive in the port. The most comprehensive place to check the ferry schedules is on croatiaferries.com website .

You can island-hop along the islands and coastline all year round, however, the timings are not as flexible as in May to October period. If you choose June to September the choices are even better as ferries and buses are more frequent. Some of the seasonal ferry routes run in July and August only. If you choose to visit in summers it is advisable to book your accommodation as well as ferry or bus tickets well in advance, especially for most popular routes.

By Car or as a Foot passenger

If you intend to drive a car while island hopping, there will be fewer itinerary options than if you island-hop as a foot passenger. An additional issue is about parking on the islands that are scarce on most of the islands in the high season. Driving around by car is the best out of the season, in May/June and September/October when ferries are less busy and parking lots are widely available.

Island Hopping Itineraries

Choosing which croatian islands to go to.

Choosing the best islands for your Croatian itinerary is tricky – they are all so beautiful! Start with asking yourself how many days you’ve got, what mode of transport you are using. Do you have a car, camper, motorbike or bicycle? How much time you are willing to spend on a ferry. What kind of activities you are interested in – is it culture or outdoors or both?

Book Hotel in Croatia

Consider also what you want to get out of your time on the islands. If you mainly want to focus on the mainland, let’s say Split and Dubrovnik but add an island or two, I recommend choosing those with quick crossings and near other islands to save time on travelling. If you have two weeks and want to focus primarily on islands, your itinerary will be completely different with longer distances and crossings.

My overview of Croatian islands is a good starting article if you are not quite sure what the different islands have to offer and how long you should spend on each (see also this article ).

Depending on where your flight is arriving, you can choose several starting points. Here are suggested island hopping itineraries that you may consider:

Island hopping from Split

If you are starting from Split , which is in the middle of the coast, to island-hop from there you can visit some of the towns and nearby islands including Hvar ( see its beaches ), Brač , Korčula, and Vis . Split to Dubrovnik is the most popular island-hopping itinerary where you can visit all (or just some) of Dalmatian islands, depending on the time you have at your disposal.

Hotels in Croatia

Starting from such a convenient transportation hub, Split is a very good entry point for island-hopping to all islands in the archipelago including Dubrovnik too. This article covers a selection of options for the islands of Brac, Hvar, Korcula,  Mljet  and Dubrovnik. If you have more time, you could add also  Lastovo , Solta, Vis and Bisevo island which is the remotest island in the area and from Split, it takes 3 hrs by ferry to get there – read more

Island hopping from Pula

If you are starting from Pula , which is on the north coast of the country, you can choose to island-hop from there, visiting islands and coastal towns in the North Adriatic and Kvarner archipelago. Pula is a great place to organise an island-hopping trip from. This is a very good choice for island hop in the area especially if you also intend to visit Venice  (just over 3 hours by ferry from Pula). In this article, you will find some details for suggested itineraries.. – read more

Island hopping from Sibenik

Sibenik is a great place to base you island hopping experience of the local archipelago and from there you can also include some additional island located nearby Zadar ( its airport ) or Split. In this article, I covered the most interesting islands to visit in Sibenik archipelago – read more

Island hopping from Zadar

A good starting points to visit the islands in Zadar archipelago , as well as to sail further to Istria, Kvarner or Sibenik islands , is to start your island hopping trip from Zadar. In this article, I covered the most interesting itineraries to follow for successful island hopping experience around in the Zadar area. The article also covers Rijeka as a starting or ending point – read more

Starting your trip from Dubrovnik is good for visiting the south and mid-Dalmatian islands Lopud , Mljet , Korčula, Hvar, Brač and Lastovo . For island hopping from Dubrovnik see this article

Croatian Island Tours

• See the complete video playlist that I created about Croatian islands

How to get to the Croatian Islands

Most Croatian islands are serviced by a major car ferry operator – Jadrolinija . Jadrolinija operates all car ferry connections to islands such as Hvar, Brac, Dugi Otok, Losinj or Korcula. There are several ferry hubs along the coast – Pula, Rijeka, Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik. Depending on which islands are on your itinerary you might also want to leave from ports such as Valbiska to Merag , Brestova, Stinica, Prizna, or Drvenik.

There are several smaller ferry operators servicing foot passenger ferry routes, such as Krilo Kapetan Luka and GV Line connecting Dalmatian islands with Split, Dubrovnik, and Kvarner archipelago with Zadar and Rijeka.

You can bring a car across to most islands, however, there are some Croatian islands that are car-free .

The only islands that are connected to the Croatian mainland by a bridge are Krk and Pag. That means you can save money and travel to Pag or Krk on the road.

Buying Ferry Tickets

You can book tickets for many popular ferries online. I highly recommend booking tickets in advance whenever possible. There are only so many ferry crossings per day or week, even in the summer season, as there is a limit to the number of passengers that can sail across. Many of these crossings are very popular and your preferred dates may be booked out weeks in advance.

For some of the car ferries, you can book and reserve your place online but for most of the car ferries, they cannot be reserved in advance. You can buy a ticket online but the place is not guaranteed for particular crossings. These services are operated on a first-come, first-serve basis . Make sure you double-check the ferry connection you plan to take before your trip, so you are not caught out in a long waiting queue in the ferry port.

Tip: If you travel by rental car and book car ferry tickets in advance, you can just choose rental for the field for your car registration number.

Arriving at the Ferry Terminal

When you booked your ferry ticket in advance, you should arrive at the ferry terminal about 30 minutes before the sailing time to join the queue to check-in. A member of staff will be in front of the ramp to check your ferry ticket and show you the location where to park onboard or if you are a foot passenger, where to enter and leave your luggage.

When you take a car ferry on a first-come, first-serve basis, you should target to arrive in the port well in advance, at least 45 minutes to an hour prior to your preferred sailing time. If you arrive late and it’s very busy, be prepared to take a later ferry.

All ferry terminals, even the smallest ones, have at least one attendant that directs you to a waiting lane to wait until the ferry is ready for boarding.

Boarding a Croatian Ferry

An attendant, a crew member, will signal you once the ferry is ready for boarding. He will also collect your ferry ticket and point you toward the correct lane to park on board. Foot passengers board the ferry walking across the ramp while and cyclists are expected to push their bikes onto the ferry via a ramp. To disembark, follow instructions at the destination end.

Video – by fast ferry to Dubrovnik islands

In the above video, you can see the highlights of the typical ferry trip between Croatian islands – the waiting queue, boarding, onboard the ferry, disembarking, views and seascape.

On Board a Croatian Ferry

Croatian ferries come in different sizes and offer different facilities such as an outdoor deck area and an interior lounge or seating, a restaurant or a cafe for hot drinks, a bar for alcoholic beverages and simple meals. If the weather is good, the outdoor decks are great to watch the coastline and seascape. Space for luggage, if you are travelling as a foot passenger, is also available.

Seascape and Wildlife Watching

Views from the outside decks and from the inside lounges are truly breathtaking. Whether you are on the car or fast catamaran ferry, sailing slowly or speeding along, the views are always fantastic. In bad as well as in good weather. Also, if you are lucky you may be able to see some wildlife. Dolphins, seagulls and herons are regularly spotted between the islands.

Video – fast catamaran ferry

A superfast local foot passenger ferry speeding between the islands.

See the complete video playlist about Croatian islands that I created.

Articles about Island Hopping in Croatia

Jadrolinija Split

Brac to Hvar and Hvar to Brac

Split to Brač

Valbiska to Merag

Getting from Zadar to Hvar

Vis to Komiza

Island hopping from split.

Split to Hvar

Dubrovnik to Vis & Vis to Dubrovnik

Brac to Vis

Vis to Mljet

Lastovo to Mljet

Hvar island

How to Spend 3 – 5 days Island Hopping in Croatia

Island Hopping from Zadar

Island Hopping from Šibenik

Island Hopping from Pula

(Update 2024) – this article will be updated with more details about traveling between Split, Sibenik, Zadar, and Rijeka once the new ferry lines, due to be introduced in 2024, are confirmed.

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > FREE Croatia Island Hopping Itineraries For 3, 5 & 7 Days   

FREE Croatia Island Hopping Itineraries For 3, 5 & 7 Days   

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

The glistening Adriatic Sea that surrounds Croatia has more than 1,200 islands and islets, which makes it perfect for a Croatia island-hopping adventure.

I know as I have seen most of them in my 20+ years traveling Croatia. This guide shows you how to island hop just a few of the 48 inhabited island Croatian islands.

I have chosen islands that you can ferry between, but hey, if you plan to sail Croatia on your yacht, even better.

There are many islands to choose from for exploration, especially since each one packs a heck of a lot of charm, boasts unique summer festivals, and has stunning baroque architecture and Renaissance churches.

Choosing which Croatian islands to visit can be complicated when you factor in  schedules, businesses closing in the off-season, and local festival dates; it can seem that creating a Croatian island hopping itinerary is impossible. But it is not with this guide. 

My guide will help you determine which are the best Croatian islands for you.

This is the ultimate guide to island hopping in Croatia, providing you with three diverse itineraries to inspire your Croatian journey like a local!

I have purposely left off Split and Dubrovnik, as you already know, those two inhabited islands in Croatia, and more than likely, you will be starting or ending your trip in one of these two locations.

My itinerary options include an island or two you may not know; they are;

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

3 Day Croatian Island Hopping Itinerary

This short itinerary designed for a weekend island hopping around Croatia will take you to some of the top islands to visit in Croatia – Krk, Cres, and Lošinj.

All three islands on this short island-hopping itinerary were ruled by the Greeks, followed by the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Austro-Hungarians! Their common history gives them shared features, though each island is indisputably unique.

Forget about island hopping Croatia by boat this time, and rent a car to make the most of your short trip! When most people start to think about how to island-hop Croatia, ferries come to mind, but they forget that bridges connect a lot of the islands in the Kvarner Gulf.

Day 1 – Krk

Bustling Island With Lots Of Locals

Krk is one of the busiest islands in the Adriatic , with almost 20,000 inhabitants. If you’re looking to get a real sense of what island life is like for the Croatians who call the Adriatic Sea home, Krk is the place to go.

Some towns worth looking into as potential places to stay are Vrbnik, Malinska (which is a city for any foodies out there!), Baška, which is super popular in the summer months thanks to all the gorgeous beaches that surround the town, and Krk town, which is nestled behind a fortified wall!

A little further out of the way is one of the lesser-known spots, the 1100-year-old Romanesque Catholic Church of St. Lucy near the charming old town of Jurandvor. The checkerboard pattern carved on the church’s bell tower is suspected to be one of the first examples of the Croatian Coat of Arms.

If you consider yourself a fan of everything history-related, you’ll also be a fan of the old Frankopan castle in the town of Krk that once belonged to one of the wealthiest families in Croatia.

There are a few ways to get to Krk Island. You can actually take a small aircraft from Split Airport and land directly on the island at Krk Airport, and the flights aren’t super expensive either! This is a good idea if you’re already traveling in Croatia and you want to save time.

If you’re following our ultimate guide and renting a car as suggested, your next destination is about a 45-minute drive away. Krk is linked to the mainland by a large bridge, so you can get there from Rijeka, even by bus, taxi, or bike! Alternatively, you could use the local ferry system .

To get off the island of Krk and continue your island hop in Croatia to Cres, take the ferry line 332 (cars are allowed on board!).

• Things To Do On Krk

Day 2 – Cres

Quaint Towns & Excellent Cuisine

Cres is known for its quaint towns and vast stretches of oak forest. It’s also home to a population of griffon vultures that nest on the cliffs around the town of Beli.

If you want to sample some of the island’s finest gastronomy, try the different lamb dishes on offer and enjoy the fresh seafood. You might also notice that in Cres, the locals speak a dialect that sounds kind of Italian, which sounds very different from the Croatian spoken on the mainland.

Towns worth visiting include Cres town and Madrač, which are decorated with pastel-colored mansions left behind by the Italians that were there from the 15th century onwards.

Next stop? Lošinj! Cres and Lošinj actually used to be the same island, but they are now separated by an 11-meter-wide canal that was dug out by the ancient Liburni tribe near the town of Osor. Thankfully, there’s a little bridge connecting the two, so it’ll take you just minutes to get from one top Croatian island to the next!

• Things To Do On Cres

Day 3 – Lošinj

Known For Sunshine & Clear Waters

The island of Lośinj was designated a health resort in 1892 thanks to the vast amounts of sunlight the island gets each year, the refreshing sea breeze, and the clear blue waters.

Once you’re on the island of Lošinj, visit the two most iconic towns – Mali Lošinj and Veli Lošinj.

In Mali Lošinj, it’s worth visiting the Kvarner Palace, which is home to the Apoksimen Men, an ancient Greek statue that is over 2000 years old and carved out of bronze.

Botanists are going to especially fall in love with Lošinj. There are more than 1100 plant species and 230 medicinal herbs on the island. If you want to see some of the coolest, visit the Garden of Fine Scents.

Other top attractions on the island include the protected area that’s home to a large dolphin population. Keep a lookout for these playful animals as you stroll along the shore!

To finish up your holiday, hop back in the car and make your way backward until you get to Rijeka!

• Check Out Our 3 Day Sailing Trip

5 Day Croatia Island Hopping Itinerary

To keep it simple, for a 5-day island hopping expedition in Croatia, I’d recommend you extend the 3-day itinerary and keep exploring the Kvarner Gulf. Unfortunately, the car isn’t going to be much use from now on as Rab and Pag, the following islands on the itinerary, are connected by foot passenger-only ferries.

Return the car in Rijeka, then hop on the ferry to Rab; it takes just under 2 hours, and Jadrolinija and G&V Iadera offer services. Be sure to time everything well, as there’s only one ferry per day!

We recommend you book your ferries with Ferryhopper in advance here.

Get a quote on a car rental here..

Since you’ve got everything planned for the first three days, let’s jump straight to day 4 .

Day 4 – Rab

Friendly Locals, Quaint Towns

The towns dotted across the island of Rab are quaint and cute, made up of rows of terracotta-roofed houses and rising church towers! The locals are friendly and easygoing, and in summer, there are plenty of festivities you can get involved in, too.

Popularized after the visit of King Edward VII and his wife Wallis Simpson, this island is known for its nudist beaches, a trend that is rumored to have been kickstarted by the king himself!

One of the best times to visit Rab is between the 25th and the 27th of July, when the island comes alive in celebration of Rapska Fjera, the oldest and largest medieval festival in Croatia . Everyone gets dressed up in medieval attire, and there are craft stalls and workshops on every street. The wine is never scarce, either!

From Rab to Pag, there’s a foot passenger ferry that arrives in Novalja and is run by Jadrolinija. Again, there’s only one a day, so don’t miss it!

Day 5 – Pag

Mountainous, Narrow, Party Island

Pag is mountainous and narrow. Most of the island is made up of sleepy fishing villages, but even Pag has a wild side. The town of Novalja, where your ferry will arrive, is on the bucket list for anyone in Croatia to do some party island hopping!

Zrće Beach is just a short bus ride away, and it’s club-central! If you want to let loose and party Croatia-style, you won’t be short of options.

On the other hand, Pag also has a lot to offer in terms of culture and history. It’s fascinating watching the women sit outside on their porches and patiently stitch Pag lace, and the Gothic cathedral in Pag town is a charm.

Once you’ve explored Pag, you can catch a bus over the bridge that connects the island to Zadar, bringing your island hopping tour to an end in one of the coolest and lesser-known cities of Croatia!

7 Day Island Hop In Croatia Itinerary

For your 7 day island hopping tour in Croatia, I propose exploring the Dalmatian coast route that starts in cities of Split and ends in Dubrovnik, or doing it the other way round and traveling from Dubrovnik to Split – island hopping style.

This itinerary will take you to some of the best Croatian islands that attract large crowds in the high season, like Hvar, and to lots of smaller islands that aren’t as famous, like Brač, Korčula, and Mljet, with the bonus of a day on Vis Island.

This 7 day itinerary will allow you to explore the islands off the coast of Dubrovnik and make your way along the Croatian islands accessible from Split. You’ll be doing everything by boat, too, which only adds to the adventure!

Day 1 – Vis

Island For Nature Lovers

Between 1950 and 1989, Vis served as the Yugoslav National Army base, and no foreigners were allowed on the island. Now it’s open to all!

Just off the shore of Vis is the incredible blue cave of Biševo . Make sure you take a boat tour to this remote cave that lights up in bright blue hues before you leave the island!

There are some cute towns on the island, too, but it’s really the cave that draws visitors in. Towns worth staying in include Vis Town (which is where ferries from Split arrive) or Komiža.

Getting from Split to Vis isn’t too complicated. There are a few options from the ferry terminal to Vis Town. Jadrolinija runs a year-round ferry, and the company Krilo runs a year-round catamaran. Bear in mind it’ll be the longest of your ferry rides – it takes two and a half hours!

The biggest problem you’ll have is leaving the island. In the peak summer season, there is just one ferry per day in the afternoon from the Vis ferry port to Bol on Brač Island. TP Line runs it, but off-season, there aren’t any ferries at all, so your only option is to ferry back to Split and then catch another ferry from there to Brač Island.

• Things To Do On Vis

Day 2 – Brač

Elevated Island That’s Less Touristy

Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape or Golden Horn) famous turquoise beach in Bol town on Brac island, Dalmatia, Croatia. Zlatni Rat sandy beach at Bol on Brac island of Croatia in the summertime.

Inhabited since the Neolithic age, this long and narrow island is less touristy than a lot of the other islands despite being the largest of the central Dalmatian Islands, which makes it an excellent destination for less social travelers.

It’s home to the highest mountain of any of the Adriatic islands, the Vidova Gora (which stands just 780 meters above sea level and can be climbed in a short hike), and it even has its own airport! But it’s still less fancy than Hvar.

Speckled with olive groves that were planted by the Greeks hundreds of years ago, the island produces a large amount of olive oil and has a quintessentially Mediterranean feel to it.

The main town is Supetar, which will also be your entry and leaving point to and from the island. It’s a convenient place to stay the night, too, so you don’t have to move all your luggage around. But try to check out the medieval town of Skrip, too, if you have the time!

More in a beach lounging mood? Head to the Zlatni Rat beach . It gets a little crowded in high season, but it’s one of Croatia’s best sandy beaches , and there’s some great snorkeling just off the shore.

Another great thing about stopping over in Brač for a night as part of your island hopping holiday is that you’re just a 30-minute ferry ride the next day to your next destination, the famous Game of Thrones location. Island of Hvar !

Day 3 and 4 – Hvar Island

One Of The Biggest, Most Popular Islands

One of the bigger islands, the island of Hvar, has a great deal on offer, which is why it’s worth spending two days here to get a real sense of the different facets of this remarkable island.

Throughout its history, the island was ruled by the Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Croatians, Venetians, Austrians, French, and Italians – so its culture and heritage are very diverse.

The local islanders are super friendly and welcoming, which makes everything more fun!

If you’re in Croatia to party, stay in Hvar Town. It’s a little more expensive than some of the other popular towns, like Stari Grad and Jelsa, but it’s also bigger and busier so there is way more atmosphere!

Some of the most famous clubs on the island include Carpe Diem, Splash, Hula Hula Beach Bar, and Falko Beach Bar – get ready to boogie the night away!

On the other hand, if you’re trying to get away from the crowds, then head to one of the small fishing villages on the island and enjoy some solitude. Top choices include Vrboska, Milna, and Sveta. You might need to take a taxi to get there once you arrive at the port, but the great thing about islands is that nothing is ever too far away!

Nature lovers, be sure to check out one of the lavender fields and go on a hike up to the Spanjola Fortress.

Wherever you decide to stay, it’s worth visiting the main historical sites, like the Stari Grad plains, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and the Hvar theatre, which was constructed in 1612.

From Hvar, the next island on your Croatian island-hopping itinerary is the island of Korcula; it’s just a one-and-a-half-hour ferry ride from Hvar Town.

• Things To Do In Hvar
• Brac or Hvar?
• Where To Stay On Hvar
• Split To Hvar Ferry

Day 5 – Korčula

Popular Island Known As Little Dubrovnik

Korčula Town has old city walls running along the edge of the Croatian coast and is somewhat reminiscent of Dubrovnik, earning it the nickname “little Dubrovnik,” but thankfully, there are considerably fewer people around!

There are cute medieval squares, rows of terracotta-roofed houses, and quaint churches all over the old town. Oh, and did you know it’s rumored to be the birthplace of none other than Marco Polo?

If you’re visiting in high season, see if you can get a Korcula Yellow Taxi ticket; that way, you can hop on and off at four of the main attractions with ease and save time and money !

The next day, catch a quick half hour ferry from Korčula port to the Pomena port on Mljet island . Warning: there are no ferries in winter, and in high season, there is just one per day! So don’t miss it if you need to stay on schedule.

• Things To Do In Korčula
• Where To Stay In Korčula

Day 6 – Mljet Island

Small Island – 1000 Inhabitants

The little island of Mljet is home to as few as 1,000 people. It’s tranquil and ideal for nature lovers and avid hikers who want to check out one of the less done-up islands and hike to the famous Odysseus Cave.

Half of the island is a National Park, which encompasses two inland saltwater lakes (Veliko and Malo Jezero) as well as dense Mediterranean vegetation.

On Mljet, the most challenging decision will be whether you spend the day hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, or reading and sunbathing on a sandy island beach!

The next day, wake up early and catch the ferry from the Sobra port in Mljet to Dubrovnik; it takes just an hour to an hour and a half, which will be a relief if you tend to get seasick!

Day 7 – Dubrovnik & Lokrum Island Croatian Hub + Uninhabited Island

Dubrovnik is one of the most popular cities in Croatia ; it has a long history that dates as far back as the 7th century, so history buffs will be especially enchanted by the old city walls (which you can tick off your UNESCO World Heritage Site checklist!) lined with restaurants and points of historical interest.

Dubrovnik gets very busy in the summer, as cruise ships loaded with passenger s and tourists flock in, but there’s a good reason people come to Dubrovnik – it’s gorgeous.

You have a few options on your last day – you can take the cable car up Mount Srd for great views, chill out in the city, and catch your breath, or if you’re determined to see as many islands as possible, then we have a treat in store for you.

Just a 15-minute ferry ride away from Dubrovnik’s port, and you’re on Lokrum Island! It’s one of the many uninhabited islands in the Adriatic Sea, which reeled me in because of the inland saltwater lake and nudist beach! There are also the crumbled ruins of an old Benedictine Monastery you can explore.

Brands We Use And Trust

What is the best way to get around the islands in croatia.

The best way to get around the Croatian islands largely depends on your itinerary and preferences. For the most part, ferries are a reliable and scenic option, connecting the mainland to various islands and providing inter-island services.

If you’re island-hopping in the Kvarner Gulf, for instance, you can easily drive across bridges to some islands like Krk. In more remote areas, smaller boats and catamarans are handy.

Renting a car can be useful for exploring individual islands extensively. Ultimately, combining ferry rides with local transport or car rentals offers a flexible and comprehensive way to enjoy the diverse landscapes and experiences each island offers.

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

When Is The Best Time To Island Hop In Croatia?

The best time to island hop in Croatia really depends on what you’re looking for.

If you’re into nature and prefer cooler temperatures for activities like hiking or cycling, then spring and autumn are great choices.

Just keep in mind that during these months, ferry schedules might be less frequent, and some businesses might be closed.

Summer, on the other hand, is perfect for those who love a lively atmosphere and don’t mind the crowds. It’s the peak season, so everything’s open, and ferries run more frequently.

However, be prepared for higher prices and more tourists.

If you’re looking for a balance between nice weather and fewer crowds, late May to early June or early September to mid-October are ideal times to visit.

Island Hopping Holiday FAQs

Here are the most commonly asked Croatia island hopping FAQs

When to go to Croatia and for what?

Spring and autumn are great for nature lovers as the cooler temperatures are ideal for hiking and cycling, but the weather is still great for snorkeling.

The only drawback is going in these months will require more planning because of the irregular ferry schedules, and some tour operators, hotels, and restaurants have started to close.

Summer is for partying, and the islands have a more lively atmosphere. Another appeal is that everything is in full swing, and there are more ferries. But on the other hand, it is more crowded, and prices skyrocket.

Is one week enough to island hop in Croatia?

While you can definitely get a good island trip in during a 7 day adventure, we’d recommend pairing it with some mainland exploration. Two weeks in Croatia is ideal if you want island and mainland experiences.

What are the best islands in Croatia?

In the top three are Rab, for the top cultural festival, Korčula for unmatched charm, and Hvar! Hvar is the best Croatian island to stay on overall if you’re looking for everything from lonely fishing towns to bigger towns with nightlife. We also love Mljet, Vis and Korcula!

What is the best way to island hop in Croatia?

Unless you have your own sailing boat, you’ll have to rely on the local ferries. This can be a problem outside of the peak season, as many routes stop running! You can get to some of the islands by car, too, as we’ll see, so they’re a good option if you’re going island hopping in spring or autumn.

Can I island hop with a group tour?

Absolutely! For those who don’t want the hassle of planning the details of an island-hopping trip in Croatia, loads of group tours are available.

What are the most popular island hopping routes in Croatia?

There are two main routes island hoppers lean towards when island hopping in Croatia. The first explores the Dalmatian islands and takes you from Split to Dubrovnik (or the other way round). The second route takes you through the archipelagos in the Kvarner Gulf along Croatia’s northern coastline, perfect for a Croatia cruise.

When is the worst time to island hop in Croatia?

The worst month to go island hopping in the summer is August. This is because across the country, offices close in August, and all the locals flock to the Adriatic coast to go island hopping themselves! This makes everything more expensive as tours and accommodation get booked out, and traffic increases even on tiny island roads. Overall, the worst season to go island hopping is in winter when the temperatures drop and many businesses close because there are few tourists.

Can you island hop using ferries in Croatia?

Yes. There is a network of ferries that conveniently runs between the islands. These ships are certainly not glamorous sailboats, to say the least, but they get you to the islands at a very affordable rate, allowing you more time (and money) to explore the islands! The Croatian ferry fleet includes car ferries, classic passenger ships, and catamarans. They connect the mainland to the islands, provide service between the islands, and even transport passengers between Croatia and Italy – making it perfect for planning your Croatia island-hopping itinerary.

Can I take my car on the ferry?

If you want to bring a car onboard the ferry, the price will be higher, and it is essential to note that the car ferries do not operate on all routes, and you will need to book early in peak season.

Do you need to book ferries in advance?

In the off-season, you do not need to book in advance; you can book that day. But in the peak summer season, if you have a car, you are advised to book in advance.

Which are the Kvarner Islands?

There are many, but the most popular are Krk, Cres, Lošinj, Pag, and Rab. These islands are found between the mainland cities of Rijeka and Zadar.

Which are the Dalmatian islands?

Again, there are hundreds. But the main islands worth putting on your bucket list are Brač, Hvar, Korčula, and Mljet. These islands run along the coastline between Dubrovnik and Split, two of Croatia’s most popular cities.

What are the leading ferry operators in Croatia?

You can get smaller ferries between islands that are close together, but the biggest ferry operators are Krilo and Jadrolinija.

When is the best time to go island hopping for festivals and culture?

• Island Hopping Greece
• Croatian Islands Not To Miss
• Why You Should Book A Croatia Sailing Trip
• What Language Is Spoken In Croatia

Comments (15)

Your guide to sailing the Croatian islands inexpensively arrived at a perfect time for me. I plan to do that next summer. I’d like some help, if you don’t mind, with two issues. First, know that I’m going to Croatia because I will have used up my 90 days in the Schengen zone. I want to include Istria in my plans, and particularly to return to Rovinj. Are there ferries from Rovinj or Pula or Rijeka heading south? How can I reach some of the islands at the northern end of the Adriatic? I’ve been to Split, Dubrovnik, Hvar and Korcula so I’d love to visit other islands. I’m a low-budget, AirBnB traveler. I hope you don’t mind the questions and that you have some good suggestions for me. Thank you! Libbie

Thanks, Very helpful, I’m planning an itinerary to Croatia this month, your tips have been very interesting and gives the solo traveler some guts when travelling alone especially with bus services and most importantly, finding the right ferries to use between islands.

Hi, I am so glad I found your travel blog. My partner and I are looking at travelling to the Islands of Croatia in June 2017, and I have begun planning. I also had looked into the cruises offered and the island hopping options, preferring to explore the islands independently rather than partying and socialising! showing my age :-( Anyway I plan to do some more research and utilise the ferry services and look into air BNB and bookings.com for some accommodation options cheers Bev

I really appreciate this article and thank you for including the prices for the ferries! I was looking into some of the sailing tours, but the more I looked at them/reviews I read, the less enthused I became about them, particularly for the party cruises. My imagination was sail, swim, and get into town in the early afternoon, not evening. This is great for me, as I’m researching how to do the islands alone without a sailing package.

Amazing content!! Croatia has never really crossed my radar until recently! will be island hoping in September/October of this year and can’t wait! Your tips are invaluable!

Thank you!! This is so helpful

Thank you for all of your insight! A few friends and I are doing a little island hopping in May, and I wanted to ask based on your experience – did you ‘wing it’ with any of your room reservations (make reservation the as you went from island to island), or did you have the reservations planned ahead of time?

Frank this was a guest post from a fellow blogger. They came in season who winging it is risky – but in May you can wing it till your hearts is content.

Thank you SJ, and I apologize for the delay in response. Your response sounds very reasonable, and I appreciate the advice!

Thank you for this useful and interesting information. You have spurred me on to pursue this trip!

Thanks, handy tips. One problem I am finding for a similar trip being planned is getting away from Vis. The boat you mention Vis-Hvar seems to only be weekly, on a Tuesday, which doesn’t work for our dates. So if we visit Vis we need to backtrack after to Split…

Yup, Vis is far and not easy to get to and from to other islands. Your only option is to go back to Split and then to your next island or book a private transfer.

Any tips for arranging reliable luggage transfer from accommodations on different islands? We would like to plan a bike trip but don’t want to have to carry our luggage on our bikes!

No sorry, no idea. I have never heard of such a company in Croatia. That is arranged privately by the bike tour companies who execute those trips.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing

The value of a trip is not the time it lasts, but the intensity with which it occurs

10 Best Islands in Croatia to visit I Croatian Islands Hopping

Want to know which are the best islands in Croatia to visit on your next trip?

Since I arrived from my trip to Croatia in 10 days , many of you asked me what is the best island to visit in Croatia or what are the most beautiful Croatian islands .

When planning your trip through the land of 1000 islands , you will have to decide which island of Croatia to choose.

Everything depends on the days you have there and your tastes, as each of these best Croatian islands has a special charm.

In this post, I tell you which are the best islands of Croatia to visit , with all the information you need to plan your Croatian Islands hopping trip.

✏️ Post content

How many islands are in Croatia

Sailing in croatia, croatian islands by car, brac island, hvar island, pakleni islands (pakleni archipelago), korcula island, mljet island, kornati islands, dugi otok island, croatian island map, the islands of croatia list.

Croatia has more than 1200 islands and islets located in the Adriatic Sea. The largest islands in Croatia are Cres, Krk, Brac, Hvar and Pag.

At the end of the post, you have a list of the main islands of Croatia, including the best islands near Split and the islands near Dubrovnik you must visit.

What is the best way to island hop in Croatia?

If you wonder how to visit the islands in Croatia , you must know that there are two ways to do it:

The best way to explore the Croatian islands is by an island hopping cruise along the Dalmatian coast. Sailing around Croatia is an amazing experience!

This way of visiting the Croatian islands is one of the most popular, since you don’t have to worry about anything and all is really well organized.

In addition, by gulet you can get easily to less known beaches and enjoy snorkeling in its crystal clear waters without people.

Luxury Gulet Cruises in Croatia normally include a route through the islands of Croatia for a week, and you can choose the itinerary, depending on whether you prefer nature, culture or relaxation, and the area you want to go (Central Dalmatian, from Split or from Dubrovnik). And you have all meals and activities included!

The advantage of traveling the islands of Croatia by car is the freedom you have to stop wherever you want and travel to Croatia on your own.

I rented a car in Dubrovnik and it was great. I love road trips so much! 

The disadvantage? You will spend too much time driving, the road conditions on the islands of Croatia are not so good and there are many curves on the road. Besides, to get to the lesser-known islands, there is no direct ferry, so you will have to make transfers and lose a lot of time.

Best Islands in Croatia to visit

The island of Brac is bathed by the Adriatic Sea, in front of Split at the Dalmatian coast.

How to get to the island of Brac

You can get to Brac Island from Dubrovnik or Split:

1). If you want to get to Brac from Dubrovnik , as I did, it’s best to do it by car.

First you will have to drive to the town of Makarska, crossing the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Once there, take a ferry that will take you to the port of Sumartin on the island of Brac.

I recommend you to arrive well in advance to Makarska, since the cars that can enter the ferry are limited, and if can’t make it, you will have to wait for the next ferry. The ferry ride from Makarska to the island of Brac is 1-hour long.

2). If you want to reach Brac island from Split , the fastest ferry will take you to the port of Supetar, northeast of Brac, in less than 1 hour.

On my trip to Croatia, I arrived to Brac from Dubrovnik and left to Split, so you don’t have to go back to the same place and you can continue traveling around the country.

Where to stay on the island of Brac

If looking where to stay on the island of Brac, I chose to stay in Bol, one of the most beautiful town on the island.

I stayed at Belado Residence Bol , overlooking the sea, the free Wi-Fi worked very well and it’s only 5 minutes walk from the center of Bol.

Click here for more information and the latest prices .

Here you have other accommodations on the island of Brac well valued by travelers.

Things to do in Brac Island

There are many places to visit on the island of Brac , so it’s better to take a short drive to see the most beautiful towns and the best beaches of Brac Island:

• Pucisca is a beautiful coastal village that you can’t miss (take a traditional ice cream, they are delicious!).
• Lovrecina Bay and its beautiful Brac beaches are a must. The color of the water will leave you speechless.
• The famous Zlatni Rat Beach , on the Golden Horn, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.

Croatian islands hopping, you will find the best beaches in Croatia, wild and with turquoise waters; but don’t think that the Croatian beaches have fine sand, because you will be disappointed.

Almost all beaches in Croatia are of stupid thick sand made with shells or small stones. So remember to wear appropriate footwear to not hurt your feet.

• The town of Bol , where I recommend you walk through the port at sunset and dine on some of the terraces a typical black rice.
• If you like hiking, go up to Vidova Gora , the highest point of the Croatian islands.

If you don’t have time to stay a few days on the island of Brac, but you do not want to miss it, you can book the Brac & Solta Islands Boat Cruise from Split (includes boat transfers, breakfast and lunch) or book a Bol Boat Trip from Split (includes boat transfers, breakfast and lunch).

This Croatian island that has become very popular in the last 2 years, considered among the three best islands of Croatia, is located off the Dalmatian coast, between the islands of Brac and Korcula.

How to get to the island of Hvar

You can reach the island of Hvar from Split or from Dubrovnik:

1). To go from Split to Hvar you can do it by ferry, and you will arrive at the town of Stari Grad, in the east of the island. The distance between the island of Hvar and Split is not much and it only takes an hour to get there by ferry.

2). If you prefer to reach the island of Hvar from Dubrovnik , the ferry will take 3 hours and a half, since it makes stops in other islands and the distance from Dubrovnik is big.

Where to stay in Hvar

Apartments Luma is one of the hotels in Hvar best valued by travelers for having free Wi-Fi and free parking, it’s petfriendly, and very close to the beach and the city center.

Two other places to stay in Hvar that I recommend are: Apartments Belić , with free Wi-Fi and free parking next to the center of Jelsea; and Guest House Marjan , in Zavala, with very good rate quality / price and spectacular views of the sea.

Best things to do Hvar island in one day

There are many things to do in Hvar, as it’s an island full of cultural, historical attractions, beaches and a really good atmosphere.

The town of Hvar , which has the same name as the island, is a must. The visits that I recommend are:

• The 16th century Franciscan Monastery hides a cypress garden that is more than 300 years old.
• The Fortress of Hvar , which you will reach by walking from St. Stephen’s Square, and from where you will have the best views of Hvar and the Pakleni Islands.
• The Cathedral of Hvar , located in the center and surrounded by cobblestone streets that you can’t stop exploring.

The lavender fields of Hvar in the towen of Velo Grabje are beautiful; besides, lavender is the symbol of the island!

The beaches of Hvar are also worth a visit. Dubovica beach is one of the most beautiful in Hvar, east of the island.

If you travel to Croatia with children, one of the most familiar beaches is Grebisce beach, located north of the port of Jelsa. Other beaches that you can visit are Lucisca, Sveta Nedjelja and Jerolim beach.

And don’t worry about the water, as you can drink tap water in Croatia and Hvar water meets all EU standards for quality of water and safety.

The Grapceva caves are one of the hidden secrets of the island of Hvar, from the Neolithic period.

If you go through Milna, stop eating at the Konoba Lambik restaurant , where you will taste the delicious traditional food of Hvar.

One of the most beautiful trips from Hvar is the Blue Cave Boat Cruise . The Blue Grotto is incredible!

I had never seen that blue water before! Besides, the Green Cave is one of the best places to snorkel in Croatia .

This tour departs from Hvar, lasts 6 hours and includes transfers by boat, English speaking guide, snorkeling equipment and drinks.

Also, you can’t miss the Pakleni archipelago , which is located east of Hvar. To know how to go from Hvar to the Pakleni Islands, keep reading!

Related post: Fun free things to do in Croatia

The Pakleni Islands are located south of Hvar and to visit them, it’s best to make a day trip from Hvar.

How to get to the islands of Pakleni

You can take a water taxi from Hvar, book the Pakleni Islands Kayaking Tour from Hvar or book this day trip to the Pakleni Islands by speedboat from Hvar .

Where to stay in Pakleni islands

If you visit the Pakleni archipelago, it’s best to book accommodation in Hvar . In the previous section you have my 3 recommendations for staaying on the island of Hvar.

Things to do in the Pakleni islands

Explore the largest island of the Pakleni archipelago, Sveti Klement , covered with pine trees and limestones with turquoise water is a must.

It’s a wild island where you will only notice the human footprint in its 4 restaurants, a bar, a botanical garden and an art gallery.

You can’t miss the Roman settlement of Vlaka or the Andro Tomic vineyards , just at sea level. If you want to make a stop to eat, I recommend the Palmižana restaurant.

One of the most populated islands in Croatia, Korcula is famous for its terraces on the sea, its medieval churches and some of the most beautiful cobbled streets in Croatia.

The island of Korcula, also called the Emerald Island and one of the most famous islands in Croatia, is among the so-called islands of Dubrovnik for being further south, and it’s the sixth largest island in the Adriatic.

How to get to the island of Korcula

You can get to the island of Korcula from Dubrovnik by ferry. The trip lasts two hours and you will arrive at the town of Korcula.

Where to stay in Korcula

Apartments & Room Nina is the recommended hotel in Korcula and best valued by travelers, for its quality / price ratio, its location (on the seafront with sea views) and free Wi-Fi. Click here for more information and the latest prices .

You can find other accommodations to stay in Korcula here .

What to do in Korcula island

The towns of Korcula and Vela Luka, a small coastal town famous for its beaches, caves, vineyards, olive trees and fig trees are a must.

There are lots of things to do in the island of Korcula :

• Visit San Pedro’s church and the San Marcos Cathedral .
• Discover Vela Spilja , one of the important prehistoric caves in Europe.
• Cycle the green areas by one of their 4 routes.
• Visit the chapel of Sv. Juraj , the old fortress and the abandoned town of Dub.
• Arrive to the islets of Proizd and Osjak to swim in its turquoise waters.
• Visit the beautiful village of Lumbarda .
• Try the famous Korcula wine in one of its local wineries.

The island of Mljet is the perfect island for a romantic and relaxing getaway.

It’s very close to Dubrovnik, which makes it ideal to combine if you have a few days to visit Croatia.

How to get to the island of Mljet

You can get to Mjlet from Dubrovnik by ferry, but first you have to travel to the town of Prapratno (1 hour from Dubrovnik) and there take the ferry to Sobra on the island of Mjlet. The ferry journey lasts only 45 minutes.

Where to stay in Mljet

It’s not worth staying overnight on the island, since you can take a day trip from Dubrovnik and thus not waste more time staying the night there.

Things to do in Mljet Island

A third of the island is a natural park, and there are many routes to walk or bike around the island.

In addition, a visit the Veliko and Malo Jezero salt lakes is a must, where in one of them there is an old Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century in the middle. You can also rent a kayak and get to the Melita islet.

Related post: Most beautiful places to visit in Croatia

The island of Vis is located less than 50 kilometers from the city of Split.

How to get to the island of Vis

You can reach the island of Vis from Split by ferry. The journey takes 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Where to stay in Vis

You can stay in Split, but being so long the ferry ride, it’s better to arrive to the island booking an day trip that cruises several islands , or you can stay in Vis for a night.

You can find accommodation on the island of Vis at the best price here .

Things to do in Vis Island

The island of Vis is famous for the Stiniva beach , considered one of the best beaches in Europe, for its turquoise waters and its location, at the end of a cliff corridor.

The access is difficult, and most travelers arrive at the beach by boat, booking this 12-hour tour that takes you to 5 Croatian islands and to the Blue Grotto from Split.

If you want to visit wild islands and unique natural landscapes in Croatia, the Kornati Islands are for you.

The islands of Kornati are located next to the island of Dugi Otok, west of Zadar .

How to get to the islands of Kornati

To get to Kornati, it’s best to do it organized on a tour, such as this Kornati National Park full day boat trip from Zadar or this Kornati kayaking and cycling day trip from Zadar .

Where to stay in Kornati

Kornati is a protected natural park and there are no accommodations. As the tours to the Kornati Islands leave from Zadar, the best option is to stay the night there (and enjoy some of the best things to do in Zadar or some of the best Zadar beaches ). 👉 You can find accommodation in Zadar at the best price here .

Things to do in Kornati

The Kornati Natural Park is made up of more than 80 protected, uninhabited islands, perfect for a day trip on a boat, stopping at different turquoise water coves and spectacular cliffs.

Also, if you like to snorkel or scuba diving , the Kornati Islands have some of the best spots in Croatia to do it.

The island of Pag is located north of Zadar and it’s one of the islands of Croatia where you will find more party and nightlife.

How to get to the island of Pag

It can be reached by car from Zadar in less than an hour, via the Paski bridge.

Where to stay in Pag

It’s not worth staying overnight on the island, since you can take a day trip from Zadar and thus not waste time staying there.

Things to do in Pag Island

The island of Pag is famous for its party, and Zrce beach is the best known among young people. In summer there popular are festivals organized there with world-famous DJs.

If you are looking for something quieter, the town of Pag stands out for its culture and gastronomy. You can’t leave Pag without trying the famous Paski cheese.

The island of Rab is located in the gulf of Carnaro, north of the Adriatic Sea.

How to get to the island of Rab

You can get there by ferry from the island of Pag and it will take only 45 minutes.

Where to stay in Rab

If you are going to spend the day on the neighboring island of Pag, you can stay on the island of Rab to visit it the next day. Check out the best hotels in Rab Island at the best prices here .

Things to do in Rab Island

As I said before, most of the beaches in Croatia are made from rocks, but the island of Rab is the only one that has sandy beaches in Croatia.

The best beach in Rab is Rajska beach , and there are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby.

Dugi Otok is one of those islands that nobody knows and that are less visited by the travelers who decide to travel around Croatia.

That makes it even more special, because you will feel that you have the island to yourself. I’s one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia .  

Dugi Otok is located near the Dalmatian coast, west of Zadar.

How to get to Dugi Otok

To get to the Croatian island of Dugi Otok you will have to take a ferry from Zadar to Božava or Brbinj, two towns east of the island. The ferry trip lasts almost two hours.

Where to stay in Dugi Otok

The Sali Hotel is the recommended hotel in Dugi Otok and best valued by travelers, for its quality / price ratio, its location (in the cove of Saščica) and for having breakfast included and free parking.

You can find other accommodations to stay in Dugi Otok here .

Things to do in Dugi Otok Island

The island of Dugi Otok stands out for its natural landscapes, such as the Telašćica Natural Park , and its beaches with crystal clear waters.

Among those that you shouldn’t miss, is Sakarun , one of the best beaches in Croatia , sometimes compared to the beaches of the Caribbean.

The Croatian islands can be classified into different categories, depending on whether or not they have an airport, its location and whether it’s more easily reached from Split or from Dubrovnik.

• Islas Elaphiti: Koločep, Lopud, Šipan
• Archipiélago de Kornati
• Islas Brijuni

You can reach some Croatian islands by plane, such as the island of Brac, which has small airport.

I hope this guide of the islands of Croatia will help you to plan your trip to the country of the 1000 islands.

SPREAD THE WORD! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS ↓

If you found my post useful, would you consider sharing it on Pinterest?  Click the “Pin It” button to share the full-sized version of the below images.

Sara Rodríguez

A passionate traveler with a mission: Help you plan your next trip easily and enjoy it to the fullest.

In this travel blog you will find everything you need to get inspired and organize your next adventure. Read more about my story here.

If You Liked This Post You May Also Like:

10 Best places to visit in Ukraine in 2024

10 Things to do in Malta [What to see, Where to eat and stay]

Amazing places to visit in Cambodia for the best trip ever

12 Best Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia in 2024 (with Map!)

Best Things to do in Leavenworth: A Guide to Washington’s Bavarian Village (2024)

20 Best Things to do in Tulum Mexico + Travel Tips!

One response to “10 best islands in croatia to visit i croatian islands hopping”.

There are more than hundreds of islands in Croatia where tourists stay and spend their time. I think it would be better if you check out which island will be best for you to stay. You can either contact travel companies in Croatia or get the trusted references. Do not forget to enjoy boat trips at Dubrovnik Islands.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Política de privacidad I have read and accept the Privacy Policy

Únete a la comunidad viajera. ¡Ya somos más de 300 mil viajeros!

Best Croatian islands for getaways

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• top-ten-croatian-island-getaways

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2023

Croatia's islands offer something for everyone — from party animals and sailors to walkers and families. This stunning country (voted one of the most beautiful countries in the world ) is truly worth a visit — or several. But which island to choose? To help you out, we have picked the best Croatian islands for getaways.

1. Susak: best Croatian island for explorers

2. rab island: the ideal destination for sandy beaches, 3. silba: perfect island getaway for serenity, 4. murter: perfect for summer parties, 5. šolta: a superb island for hiking and cycling, 6. hvar: best croatian island for hedonists, 7. vis: the ideal destination for foodies, 8. korčula island: perfect for wine lovers, 9. proizd: best croatian island for sun-worshippers, 10. mljet: best croatian island for nature-lovers, 11. cres island: best for an italian vibe.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Croatia , your essential guide for visiting Croatia .

Travel ideas for Croatia, created by local experts

16 days  / from 5292 USD

Gorgeous gems of Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia

From the spas of Budapest to Lake Bled with its castle and further on to Croatia - this itinerary takes you across 3 countries, with a special focus on Slovenia's lake area and the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

10 days  / from 2800 USD

Sailing Croatia

If you want to experience the Dalmatian coast from a whole different perspective, then this trip is for you! Hop aboard a beautiful cruiser and sail along some of Croatia's most stunning islands.

10 days  / from 2327 USD

Southern Pearls

This ten-day trip will take you around three adjacent countries, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Your tour starts in Split, Croatia, moving south (hence the name "Southern Pearls") over the island of Hvar and Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina to end up in Montenegro.

Susak is one true connoisseur of Mediterranean getaways. A small, sandy Croatian island that sits off the coast of larger Lošinj , Susak's beaches are superb. In fact, Susak's Spiaza Beach is one of our best beaches in Croatia .

Susak is also characterised by crumbly, ochre-coloured cliffs covered in ferns, wild fennel and soaring grasses. With footpaths crisscrossing the island, exploring the great outdoors here is effortless and sublimely rewarding.

Top tip: Croatia is a top honeymoon destination and this tailor-made Dalmatian Honeymoon trip will take you through truly memorable sights. The tour is planned out to the last possible detail while still respecting the time you wish to spend at your own pace in privacy.

Where to stay on Susak Island

• For price and quality: Vila Flora
• For location: Hotel Sansegus

Find more accommodation options to stay on Susak island

Susak is one of the top Croatian islands for getaways © xbrchx / Shutterstock

Known for being one of the best European beach holiday destinations , Rab is indeed blessed with dozens of stone-and-pebble-free coves that'll please even the fussiest beach-lover.

Rab's best-known beach is Rajska Plaža (Paradise Beach). Located in Lopar to the north of the town of Rab, its long stretch of soft sand, shallow waters, and plentiful amenities make it a top choice for families. For scenery that evokes The Bahamas — pine forests and turquoise waters — head to Suha Punta on the wooded Kalifront peninsula.

Keen to avoid tan lines? Kandarola Beach is one of the world's oldest naturist beaches, with the right royal connections — Edward and Wallis Simpson used to get back to nature here, which is why it's known locally as English Beach.

Top tip: A day cruise around the northern side of the island of Pag . You will be free to swim in the inlet of the Zavratnica Nature Park, whilst also discovering the numerous other attractions the island of Rab offers.

Where to stay on Rab Island

• For breathtaking views: Villa Harmony
• For families: Lando Resort

Find more accommodation options to stay on Rab island

For beach lovers, Rab island is another top Croatian island for getaways © pointbreak / Shutterstock

Car-free with no hotels, Silba is a paradise for peace lovers year-round. Come mid-July, a bike ban comes into play until the end of August, further adding to the island's addictively laidback vibe. To get a sense of Silba's blissfully slow pace, strolling maquis-lined lanes to unspoiled beaches pretty much counts as an adrenaline sport here.

Top tip: Join a full-day excursion to the islands of Silba and Olib , which are part of the Zadar archipelago. The area is known for its marvellous landscape, far away from traffic jams and city crowds.

Where to stay on Silba Island

• For comfort: Heni
• For couples: Silba Otium

Find more accommodation options to stay on Silba island

Fishing harbour with boats of Silba in Croatia © Shutterstock

While the legendary summer Garden Festival danced its last crazy steps in 2015, Murter is still one of the best Croatian islands for summer parties, festivals and concerts. Running in late July, SuncéBeat is a carnivalesque festival with a welcoming family vibe — an event that favours fun over pretension.

Amazingly, the island’s easy-going side isn’t ruffled by the festivities. Party-seekers co-exist with more sedate visitors who are drawn to Murter’s natural beauty — think olive groves, cute ports and sublime coves.

If you're seeking alternative culture and are planning a longer trip to Croatia, read up on unexpected highlights of Croatia .

Top tip: If you want to experience the Dalmatian coast from a whole different perspective, then this tailor-made sailing trip is for you! Hop aboard a beautiful cruiser and sail along some of the most stunning Croatian islands.

Where to stay on Murter Island

• For island views: Apartments Marti
• For modern stays: Murter Inn

Find more accommodation options to stay on Murter island

Pick Murter Island for summer music festivals © Zvonac / Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Unspoiled Šolta happens to offer many of the reasons Croatia made it into our round-up of the world's best adventure holiday destinations , with a host of lesser-travelled hiking and biking trails to enjoy.

Despite being the closest island to Split, Šolta has a decidedly remote feel. Small and compact, lovers of the stunning outdoors will want to take to the unspoiled interior for trails that pass through secret stone villages. Meanwhile, the picturesque harbour of Maslinica offers an alluring mix of old-time charm and yacht club chic.

Top tip: if you're after the likes of hiking and cycling, take a look at our customisable Ultimate Croatian Adventure trip .

Where to stay on Šolta Island

• For couples: Villa Šolta
• For amazing sea views: Apartments Kaić

Find more accommodation options to stay on Šolta island

Village Sromorska on island Solta in Croatia © Shutterstock

When it comes to architectural grandeur and glamour, Hvar Town rivals Dubrovnik . Long a favourite summer haunt of celebrities, the island boasts stacks of glossy bars and top-notch restaurants. As insiders know, the best parties happen on Hvar's offshore islands after hours, so keep to your ear to the ground while you sup your sundowner.

It's fair to say that there are two sides to Hvar. Though it has a reputation for buzzy nightlife, beyond the town the island has a chilled and charming vibe that makes it popular with families. There are dozens of calm coves for kids to swim in safely, while towns like Stari Grad and Vrboska retain an unhurried, fishing village feel, with plenty of family-oriented places to eat.

Top tip : if that wasn't enough, Hvar is a also great place to include on a sailing trip. If you fancy taking to the Adriatic Sea, read our first-timers guide to Croatian sailing holidays , and check out our tailor-made active trip to authentic Hvar .

Where to stay on Hvar Island

• For stylish stays: History Hvar Design Heritage Suites
• For luxury: Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort

Find more accommodation options to stay on Hvar island

Hvar's harbour is a hotspot for pleasure-seekers © rustamank/Shutterstock

The furthest flung of the Southern Dalmatian Islands, Vis is something of a magnet for independent travellers, especially those who are fond of good grub. If you are travelling independently, you might be interested in our run-down of the best beachside camping spots in Croatia .

Moving back to Vis — the island is surrounded by jaw-droppingly clear waters that are known for offering some of the Adriatic’s finest seafood. The lobster is outstanding, with hearty roasts and stews being another Vis speciality. Don't miss any opportunity to try the island's signature snack — pogača od srdele , a flavoursome anchovy pasty.

Top tip: Surrounded by an archipelago of other Croatian islands and islets, the island of Vis is simple, sleepy and authentic. Come here with our tailor-made trip to Croatia's Best Kept Secret - Vis Island for a unique experience, and stay for the hospitality and friendliness of the locals.

Where to stay on Vis Island

• For couples: Apartments & Rooms As
• For the perfect location: Komiza Provita Guesthouse

The Rough Guides to Croatia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find more accommodation options to stay on Vis island

Vis — one of the best Croatian islands for foodies © xbrchx / Shutterstock

Cloaked in vineyards, olives and Aleppo pines, Korčula is one of the greenest of the Croatian islands. It is also one of the most popular, thanks largely to the charms of its main settlement, Korčula Town, whose surviving fortifications jut decorously out to sea like the bastions of an overgrown sandcastle.

The island has a varied collection of inviting beaches too. Visit the white sands of Lumbarda, 7km away from Korčula Town. Or spend time at the secluded pebbly coves on the south coast, and dramatic slabs of rock on the islet of Proizd, just off the port town of Vela Luka.

Top tip: Two spectacular Croatian destinations in one day! On this day trip from Dubrovnik , you will enjoy the spectacular Mediterranean scenery of the glittering Peljesac peninsula, the ancient beauty of Korcula island, and their delicious food and wine culture.

Where to stay on Korčula Island

• For boutique stays: Boutique rooms Kastel Ismaeli
• For stunning views: Guest House Lovrić

Find more accommodation options to stay on Korčula Island

Korcula, an old medieval town in Dalmatia region, Croatia © Shutterstock

More of an islet than an island, Proizd is reached by water taxi from Vela Luka on Korčula. Visitors are drawn here by the sloping-rock beaches — stone plates that shelve down into the impossibly clear sea. Especially beautiful as the day wears on, you'll want to stay for the sunset that sees the rocks shift from grey to gold. Magic.

If you happen to visit between mid-July and August, time your trip to experience Vela Luka’s Kumpanjija, a traditional slow sword dance. It takes place on Tuesday evenings — the din of bagpipes and drums makes it pretty easy to track down.

Top tip: Enjoy a ticket that allows you to visit 3 different islands in Korčula . Starting in Korčula, your ticket is valid throughout the whole day as you hop on and hop off as many times as you want.

Proizd has some of the best sunbathing beaches in Croatia © eldar nurkovic/Shutterstock

While you can visit Mljet on a day trip from Dubrovnik , this National Park island really justifies a longer stay. One of the largest islands of Southern Dalmatia, Mljet offers exceptional nature walks, and beautiful bays and lakes. It's also known for fine wine, juicy olives, and incredible goat's cheese — best enjoyed in a local restaurant after all those Dubrovnik day-trippers have left.

Top tip: Discover the beauty of Mljet National Park on this guided hiking tour . Trek up Montokuc Hill for a view of the whole park, take a boat down the Great Lake and swim in the emerald-green waters.

Where to stay on Mijet Island

• For beach location: Hotel Odisej
• For rural stays: Villa Radulj

Find more accommodation options to stay on Mijet island

How many islands in Croatia are as romantic as Mljet? © OPIS Zagreb / Shutterstock

The westernmost of the Kvarner islands, Cres and Lošinj (really a single island divided by an artificial channel), together make up a narrow sliver of land which begins just south of the Istrian coast and extends most of the way across the Kvarner Gulf. Despite its proximity to the mainland, Cres (pronounced “tsress”) is by far the wilder and more unspoiled of the two islands.

Cres boasts a couple of attractively weather-beaten old settlements in Osor and Cres Town, as well as numerous villages and coves in which modern-day mass tourism has yet to make an impact. With the deciduous forest and overgrown hedgerows northern Cres gives way to the increasingly barren sheep pastures of the south.

Top tip: Discover the secrets of olive oil production on a shared group or private walking tour of an olive grove and olive oil mill in Cres. Taste some oils and have snacks and drinks at a local restaurant.

Where to stay on Cres Island

• For price and quality: Hotel Kimen
• For B&B: Bed and Breakfast Palac

Find more accommodation options to stay on Cres island

Cres Port, Croatia © Pixabay

Ready for a trip to Croatia ? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Croatia .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Croatia without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

• Coasts & Islands
• National Parks & Reserves
• Inspiration
• See & Do
• Where to stay

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for Croatia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Croatia

• Eating and drinking in Croatia
• How to get to Croatia
• Getting around Croatia: Transportation Tips
• National Parks in Croatia
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Croatia
• Travel Tips Croatia for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Croatia

Find even more inspiration for 36 here

Ready to travel and discover croatia, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Itineraries
• Travel advice

20 Best Islands in Croatia to Visit in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Cruising the Croatian islands has become an iconic holiday activity. Imagine sailing through the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea as you search for a secluded cove. Croatia has more than 1,000 islands spanning from north to south, so no matter where you find yourself, you’ll be able to book a day trip out to see one. Even if you aren’t aboard a luxury yacht, many of the best islands in Croatia can be reached by public ferry or even on a sea kayak. We can attest, kayaking around the islands of Croatia is a trip of a lifetime.

Table of Contents

The Best Islands to Visit in Croatia

Croatia may have plenty of islands but only 47 actually are inhabited. And of those 47 inhabited islands, only 15 islands have a population of more than 1000 people. So when you visit the islands of Croatia, chances are you’ll have them all to yourselves.

Dubrovnik may be calling your name, but once you’ve explored the popular Game of Thrones Locations, it’s time to get out on the crystal clear waters to enjoy these best islands in Croatia.

1. Kornati Islands

The Kornati Islands are an archipelago of 140 islands and islets sitting off the Dalmatian Coast. Within the largest Archipelago in the Adriatic Sea is Kornati National Park which draws visitors to explore its pristine Croatian islands and underwater playground. The abundance of reefs and shallow, warm waters make it perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Things to do

Go snorkeling or scuba diving – Most boat tours to the Kornati Islands offer a snorkeling option. The islands are said to be home to nearly 200 species of fish. You can even spot dolphins if you are lucky.

This full-day tour takes you along the Sibenik channel past historic military sites and famous landmarks until you reach Kornati National Park. You’ll have the opportunity to go snorkeling, swimming, and even cliff diving from its steep rock faces. See more details here.

Visit the Fortress of Tureta – The Fortress of Tureta dates back to the Byzantine period and sits – isolated and decrepit – on the island of Kornat. History lovers will enjoy touring the historic site , and its dramatic, remote cliff-top location adds to the attraction’s allure.

How to get there

The best way to reach the Kornati Islands is by day trip, especially as most are uninhabited islands. You can find boat tours from Zadar, Sibenik, or Murter – any of the major tourist spots along the Dalmatian Coast.

2. Elaphiti Islands

The Elaphiti Islands are the most popular Croatian islands to visit as they sit just off Dubrovnik on the Croatian mainland. Dubrovnik draws in millions of tourists thanks to its wealth of  things to do  and  Game of Thrones  stardom, and many people are tempted into ‘special island hopping itinerary’ boat trips from Dubrovnik Old Town harbor.

The Elaphiti Islands include three main islands: Sipan, Kolocep, and Lopud. The total population of all three islands is around 1,000 people, and most residential areas are sleepy fishing villages. Visiting the Elaphitis is an excellent choice for those staying in Dubrovnik and wanting a laidback, convenient island getaway.

Swim in the Blue Cave and Green Cave – The Elaphiti Islands have special caves where the light reflects perfectly to create brightly colored water. The Blue Cave is one of the most famous stops on the island of Biševo. Sun reflects off the white bottom of the blue cave bouncing off the limestone walls creating a stunning scene. The equally beautiful green cave offers snorkeling or swimming on Sipan island.

Kayak around the islands -Rent a sea kayak and explore the islands from the ocean. By sea kayaking, you’ll be able to access sheltered coves and hidden sandy beaches and admire the unique natural landscapes from a unique perspective.

This boat tour from Dubrovnik takes you to Kolocep, Lopud, and Šipan where you’ll stop and swim and enjoy lunch and unlimited drinks. Now that sounds like a good time.

You can reach The Elaphitis easily by public ferry, which is perfect if you want to stay a few days. Otherwise, you can organize a day trip from Dubrovnik Old Town.

Chances are that you’ve already heard of Brac when searching for the best islands in Croatia. Brac is located in the Adriatic Sea, just off the coast of Split , and it is one of the most popular islands for a day trip. Brac is known for its larger-than-life personality and has a bit of everything – from music events to a historic old town and Golden Cape beach, which is famed for windsurfing. Brac is action-packed yet authentic (an admirable trait) and an excellent contender for island hopping.

Golden Cape Beach – Golden Cape Beach (or Golden Horn Beach) is an excellent spot for watersports and one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. The iconic beach is shaped like a horn, jutting out in a triangle shape.

Blaca Hermitage – Blaca Hermitage is a 16th-century monastery built dramatically into a cliff face. You can hike up to the monastery and visit the museum for more information on its history.

Getting to Brac is a breeze, and you can hop on a ferry straight from Split. The ride takes just 50 minutes, and even in low season, it runs over sixty times a week.

4. Hvar Island

Hvar is one of the best islands in Croatia if you want a summer resort atmosphere. Sure, the island has its historical attractions. Hvar Town has 13th-century walls and plenty of ancient buildings. However, it is most famous for its clubs, pubs, bars, and beach parties. If you want somewhere to let your hair down, Hvar is a fantastic choice.

Fortica Fortress – This 16th-century fortress is one of the most scenic spots in Hvar. You can hike to the top of its hill to explore the ruins and enjoy gorgeous views over the town, island, and ocean below.

Party at Carpe Diem – Carpe Diem is one of the island’s longest-established party venues and was opened in 1999. The venue has DJs from 5 pm each night and a fashion show twice a week. Carpe Diem is where to rub shoulders with the rich and famous.

The best way to reach Hvar is by getting a ferry from the mainland. You can catch a ferry to Hvar from significant cities like Split and Dubrovnik, and there is even the option to catch an international ferry from Italy.

5. Vis Island

Vis Island is one of the best islands in Croatia if you want a spot with a rich history. Vis Island served as a Yugoslav military base from 1950 until 1989, and you can still visit military sites today. This is a massive draw for those intrigued by Croatia’s political history. Vis Town also has ancient city walls, a public bath, and an archaeological museum.

Scuba dive underwater wrecks – Vis has many fascinating wrecks, including a plane and a Greek cargo ship. You can visit the island’s dive center to organize a diving tour.

Visit Tito’s Cave – Tito was a World War II leader and had headquarters in a cave on Vis Island. Because of its location near Italy, Vis was considered a highly strategic location, and now visitors can tour the special cave.

You can take an organized tour from the mainland or take the ferry from Split. The ferry ride takes around an hour and a half.

6. Rab Island

Rab Island is one of the most historical Croatian islands. It has a stunning old town encircled by ancient city walls. If you want a photogenic, historical island, Rab is the one for you. It has the Cathedral Svete Marije and Sveti Ivan Church, plus Roman ruins dotted around the island. Just when you thought it couldn’t get better, Rab Island also has some of the best beaches out of all Croatia’s islands.

Paradise Beach – Paradise Beach is a fantastic beach day spot, with waterslides and pedal-boat rentals to keep you entertained between sunbathing sessions.

Sightsee the Old Town – Sightseeing the different buildings and old city walls is a perfect way to spend a morning on Rab Island. You can easily explore leisurely on foot, stopping for a coffee or brunch break when you need to.

You can catch a ferry to Rab Island from the mainland or other nearby islands. Book tickets online (especially during peak seasons) to guarantee a spot.

7. Pakleni Islands

The Pakleni Islands are some of the best islands in Croatia for beautiful sandy beaches, incredible snorkeling, and partying. The Paklenis are a group of islets located just off of Hvar, and their stunning scenery and fun atmosphere make them a popular day trip. Small but with big personalities, the Pakleni Islands are fantastic islands to visit in Croatia.

Enjoy the walking trails – Since the islands are so small, you can easily explore them on foot. Sveti Klement is the best island for shaded walking trails and is scattered with pine trees and Mediterranean shrubs.

Party at the Marinkovac beach club – Get your groove on at Marinkovac’s fantastic beach club. The club gives the Pakleni Islands their party reputation and is a great spot to let your hair down.

You can visit the Pakleni Islands on a day trip from Hvar or the Mainland. From Hvar, it takes just 30 minutes to reach the Paklenis.

8. Mljet Island

Mljet is a long Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea. This is one of the best islands in Croatia for nature lovers and is home to Mljet National Park. Mljet is covered in a dense pine forest, vineyards, and olive groves. It is the perfect island to visit to appreciate nature and fresh, locally sourced produce.

Odysseus Cave – Make sure to visit the legendary Odysseus Cave. It is one of the most beautiful plces on Mljet. It can be reached by boat or you can hike to it.

Mljet National Park – Mljet National Park offers 5,400 hectares of land and ocean reserves, protecting incredible flora and fauna. You can cycle or hike around the park and pack snorkeling gear to appreciate its reefs and underwater attractions.

Roman Palace – The Roman Palace is Mljet’s most historic attraction. The 5th-century ancient palace sits on the Polace waterfront, now split in half by a busy road.

The easiest way to reach Mljet Island is to take the ferry from Dubrovnik. The trip takes around two and a half hours.

9. Pag Island

Pag Island is one of the best islands in Croatia if you are looking for a striking (slightly bizarre) natural landscape. Apart from the built-up area of Pag Town, arriving at Pag is not unlike landing on the moon. It has a desolate moonlike landscape and sharply contrasts Croatia’s more lush islands. You’ll find fun nightlife in Pag Town, plenty of walking trails, and local produce like paski sir, which is called Pag cheese and made from sheep milk.

Party on the Zrce strip – Zrce is the hub of nightlife on Pag. The beachfront is lined with bars and clubs, with frequent beach parties to join.

Sample the island’s delicacies – So, you must try Pag cheese. However, Pag lamb is also a local specialty and is typically grilled and served with potatoes. These dishes are extremely popular, so stop by a restaurant and check what they serve.

Pag Island is the easiest to reach in this guide. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge and has a car ferry service. You can drive across the bridge or sail to Pag; the choice is yours.

10. Korcula Island

Korcula Island is known for its dense plant life and forest and the beauty of Korcula Town. Some people even go as far as to call Korcula Town ‘Little Dubrovnik’, as its smaller-scale city walls, medieval squares, and historic buildings are a picture of Croatia’s famous city. The island has a lot of Greek history, and we recommend it to any history enthusiasts or people looking for a well-rounded, beautiful island destination.

Visit Pupnatska Luka Beach – Pupnatska Luka Beach is a stunning place to visit and great for a day trip. It is famed for its turquoise waters and bright white sand.

Visit Korcula Town Museum – Ready for a bit of history? This museum exhibits Korcula’s history and culture and has a unique location in a 16th-century Renaissance palace.

The best way to reach Korcula Island is to catch the ferry from Split, which takes just under four hours. You can also catch smaller, less regular ferries from nearby islands.

11. Cres Island

Cres Island is the second largest island in the Adriatic Sea and is connected to the neighboring island of Losinj by a bridge. Cres Island is slightly off of most tourist radars, but if you want an exciting, less crowded Croatian island, this makes it a great candidate. Cres Town has many Italian qualities since the island was previously under Venetian rule and has beautiful scenery and plenty of history.

See the griffon vulture colony – Nature lovers or bird enthusiasts, will love spotting Cres’ griffon vulture colony. I remember going to see them while kayaking around Cres. Cres Island is massively involved with conservation efforts, offering a refuge for special birds to thrive away from mass crowds.

Visit the Venetian Tower – The Venetian Tower is a perfect place to appreciate the island’s history. The tower was once part of the island’s Venetian fortification, built while Cres was under Italian rule.

You can catch a ferry service from the Croatian mainland or fly to Krk Island and catch a ferry from there.

12. Obonjan

Want a private island experience? Obonjan is one of the best islands in Croatia. Forget a resort town; Obonjan is a resort island specializing in luxury glamping experiences for adults. The island treads the line between party-focused, wellness-focused, and pure luxury. It offers a holistic holiday package, perfect if you want to treat yourself to a night off the mainland. Obonjan has an exclusive atmosphere and is a match made in heaven for luxury-chasing crowds.

Attend one of the festivals or club nights – Obanjan is always hosting the latest DJs and artists. Obanjan has some of the most exciting line-ups and regular events if you are in the mood for a party.

Get involved with resort activities – This might sound like a cop-out itinerary idea, but the resort really does have everything. You could be attending complimentary yoga classes or attending a film screening.

Obanjan is best reached by ferry or taxi boat from Sibenik. Obanjan Island Resort also offers boat transfers.

13. Krk Island

Krk is famed for its old-world architecture and the charming atmosphere that medieval towns promise. Its walled town is full of photogenic back alleys and beautiful buildings, some dating back to the 5th century. Notably, Krk is also the only island where you can spot bears, as the island is so close to the mainland that bears swim across the strait. Krk is a convenient, exciting destination, ideal for those researching day trips from the mainland.

Visit the 5th century basilica in Omisalj – The basilica is the oldest remaining building on the island of Krk, and it is a fascinating place if you love history or archeology. The structure is remarkably intact, and you can easily distinguish the different rooms and features.

Visit the Frankopan Castle – Frankopan Castle overlooks the town of Krk and was commissioned by the Frankopan family – an old noble family in Croatia. The castle was continuously worked on over the centuries to maintain it, with considerable work done in the 13th and 14th centuries.

Getting to Krk is so straightforward that all you have to do is drive over the connecting bridge. As we said, Krk is very close to the mainland shore, meaning it can be conveniently connected with a permanent bridge rather than resorting to ferry crossings.

Murter has that tropical island feel that you are very likely craving. Think sandy beaches, lush forests, and beautiful viewpoints. Murter is only a tiny island, but that makes it blissful to explore on foot. You can walk to stunning beaches and spend your day beach hopping between all the different options. We recommend bringing snorkeling gear so you can also enjoy spotting the marine life at each beach.

Go scuba diving – Murter’s waters are perfect for fishing, so you can bet that you’ll find a lot of marine life scuba diving. The island’s dive center offers guided dives and scuba courses, so you can go for a dive or brush up on your skills.

Betina Museum of Wooden Shipbuilding – The Betina Museum is a fascinating spot to visit and covers the town’s ship-making history – from marine tools to traditional attire. Whether you are interested in maritime history, the museum is a valuable insight into island living.

Murter is a dream to get to, as it is connected to the mainland by a small drawbridge. You can catch a bus or drive onto the island – avoid crossing between 5 pm and 5:30 pm when the bridge is lifted.

Zlarin is one of the most beautiful Croatian islands and is located just off the shores of Sibenik. Expect endless sandy beaches and forests of pine trees. However, Zlarin also has a fantastic shopping scene and is famed for its coral products. A common career in Zlarin is to harvest coral and turn it into products like jewelry. And the island has historical attractions dating back to the 13th century. Zlarin is a bit of a golden child – with amazing qualities and lots to offer.

Go rock climbing – We won’t judge you for wanting to spend a few hours on the beach, but when you are finished, definitely make the most of Zlarin’s cliffs. The east of the island is renowned for rock climbing, and you can book an organized climbing activity to get your adrenaline pumping.

Visit the Coral Museum – Find out more about the island’s relationship with coral and browse some of the best coral souvenirs.

Getting to Zlarin is easy. You catch the ferry from Sibenik, which runs regularly in high and low seasons.

16. Veliki Brijun

Veliki Brijun is part of the Brijun Islands archipelago and one of the best islands in Croatia for appreciating untouched nature. Veliki Brijun is part of the Brijun National Park and covers 1,700 acres, most of which is protected green space. Veliki Brijun is Croatia’s greenest island. It is also known for its unique, swirled shape, often captured in aerial photos of the island.

Visit the dinosaur footprints – Interested in paleontogology? Veliki Brijun isn’t just home to 21st-century wildlife; you can also spot traces of prehistoric animals on the island. The primary dinosaur footprint is just a short walk from Veliki Brijun port.

Hop on the ‘Tourist Train’ – If you’d prefer to save your legs and energy, the tourist train is a great choice and whisks you around the island on a quick sightseeing tour. You’ll pass all Veliki Brijun’s major attractions, including the safari park.

You can take a taxi boat to Veliki Brijun, but the most reliable way is to take the ferry from Fazana. Fazana has a regular 20-minute ferry ride that connects Veliki Brijun to the mainland.

17. Dugi Otok

Dugi Otok is one of the outer islands off of Zadar in Central Croatia. While not on the well-trodden tourist path, Dugi Otok is easily one of the best islands in Croatia. Dugi Otok is nothing short of paradisical, with beautiful beaches and idyllic spots like Sali, a tiny fishing village. The island is one of the largest islands off of Zadar and has lots of adventure potential and room to explore.

Telascica Nature Park – Dugi Otok is known for its saltwater lakes, and Telascica Nature Park is where you’ll find Lake Mir. Lake Mir is full of saltwater marine animals and is a wonderful natural tourist attraction.

Visit the Donkey Sanctuary – The Donkey Sanctuary is massively important on Dugi Otok since donkeys were heavily relied upon for early survival on the island. Nowadays, visiting is a wholesome thing to do on the island. While the sanctuary is small, it is a definite addition to your Dugi Otok itinerary.

Getting to Dugi Otok is easy, and you can catch a ferry from Zadar in less than an hour and a half. It is easiest to visit for a few days rather than rush to manage a day trip.

If you want a day trip to an uninhabited island, Mrcara is one of the best islands in Croatia. Mrcara is so off-the-beaten-track that some people call it the ‘last stand’, and you’ll only find basic amenities on the island like a small jetty and seasonal restaurant. It might not be the most popular day trip, but if you have a sense of adventure, you will love Mrcara.

Explore the island’s walking trails – Part of Mrcara’s draw is its raw beauty and stillness. By hiking its walking trails, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in nature, and only nature – listening to bird songs, admiring flora, and wildlife watching.

Snorkel at the beaches – Going snorkeling is one of the best things to do on Mrcara. The pebbled beaches and quiet waters are perfect for marine life to thrive, and Mrcara is one of the best Croatian islands to spot marine animals.

The best way to reach Mrcara is to catch a ferry from Split to Lastovo, the big island next to Mrcara. From Lastovo, you can then organize a shuttle service to Mrcara.

19. Drvenik Veli

Drvenik Veli is one of the smallest Croatian Islands near Split. It has a humble history and has been home to shepherds and nomads since the 15th century. While it lacks the infrastructure to provide historical attractions, Drvenik Vali has a sense of remote community heritage. Drvenik Veil is a fantastic choice if you want a glimpse into small Croatian island life.

Sample local seafood – Freshly caught seafood is always a tasty idea, and when you visit Drvenik Veil, we suggest giving in to that temptation. The island relies on its fishing for economic survival, and the handful of local restaurants on Drvenik Veil use the freshest catch.

Swim in the Blue Lagoon – Drvenik Veil’s Blue Lagoon is a beautiful place for a dip, and it’s renowned for its bright blue waters. Its formal name is Krknjasi Bay, which is located on the island’s east side – nice and easy for visitors to access.

Drvenik Veil is quickly reached by taxi boat, or ferry. It takes around 30 minutes from the mainland to get to the island’s main town of Drvenik.

Silba is one of the best islands in Croatia for that car-free, fresh-air experience. You’ll find a handful of tractors for essential transportation tasks and the postman on his scooter, and that’s that; the rest of the island is serene and traffic-free. Silba is one of the sunniest places in Croatia, and with all its hidden coves and beaches, what better place to soak up the rays.

Beach hop – Make use of that sunshine and hit the beach. Silba has a beautiful selection of beaches waiting for you to throw down a beach towel, and we recommend Dobre Vode and Nozdre the most.

Climb the Toreta – The Toreta is Silba’s only tower, and you can climb up its narrow, spiral stairway for gorgeous views over the island and ocean. Legend has it that a sailor built Toreta for his girlfriend, but she cast his love aside and betrayed him by marrying someone else – getting tired of watching and waiting from the tower.

Just catch the ferry to Silba from Zadar. The ride takes around an hour and runs twice daily but you should confirm the schedule online as it is liable to change.

And these are some of the best islands in Croatia. Whether you pick one of the main islands or head off the beaten track, you’ll have a fantastic experience enjoying the glorious views of the Adriatic Sea. Island hopping is one of the  best things to do in Croatia to really see the beauty of the Dalmatian Coast.

Croatian islands are some of the prettiest in the world, and their secluded coves and idyllic beaches make them some of the best spots for island hopping on earth.

• Beautiful Croatia – The 20 Best Things to See and Do

22 Best Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Where to Stay in Dubrovnik – Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• Best Places to Visit in Europe
• Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Can Visit in Real Life

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

23 Incredible Things to do in Split, Croatia in 2024

14 Best Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik, Croatia In 2024

About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “20 Best Islands in Croatia to Visit in 2024”

Amazing pictures, I would love to update my bucket list. Keep blogging Planet D.

The 15 best islands to visit in Croatia

By Jane Foster

The key to a perfect holiday? Dalmatians call it fjaka – a deliciously lazy mood of utter contentment. To help you find it, we've put together a hit list of the 15 best islands in Croatia, as chosen by a Croatia expert. For more inspiration once you're there, see our definitive list of the best beaches in Croatia or an expert guide to planning the ultimate Croatia island-hopping adventure.

Romanesque churches, walled monasteries, lush vineyards and pretty fishing villages . Joined to the mainland by an impressive bridge, Krk draws visitors from northern Croatia and beyond with its superb konobe (taverns) serving local specialities such as šurlice (handmade pasta) and Kvarner shrimps – reserve a table at Bracera in Malinska, or Rivica in Njivice. Walk or cycle hiking routes that follow time-worn donkey paths over fertile farmland and barren rocky slopes, stopping to explore the underground caverns of Biserujka Cave , sample Žlahtina white wine in the hill village of Vrbnik and swim at Baška.

Insider's tip: Call at family-run Utla near Malinska to taste their extra-virgin olive oils made from local Plominka olives.

Croatia's trendiest island destination, Hvar Town sprawls around a sheltered harbour packed with yachts , a vast paved piazza with a baroque cathedral at its centre. Stroll along the palm-lined seafront promenade and up to the hilltop castle, then wander through cobbled alleys, packed with rustic-chic seafood restaurants (think lobster, champagne and lavender ice cream), cocktail bars and boutiques stocking handmade jewellery and designer swimwear. Beyond the capital, the rural interior is a haze of lavender fields and vineyards – call at the Tomić winery in Jelsa to taste wines made from local grape varieties Bogdanuša, Pošip and Plavac Mali.

Insider's tip: For authentic home cooking, visit Konoba Lambik in Milna with tables on a stone terrace in an olive grove.

Overlooked by everyone from the Romans to tourists, Dugi Otok has space and silence to spare; both precious commodities in high summer . Its name means 'long island' in Croatian, and while it measures 45km in length, it’s only 4km at its widest point. Hilltop hamlets like Dragove shimmer in the heat haze like watercolours, while fishing villages such as Sali and Božava are bleached by a lazy sun. There are cliff-edge panoramas of empty Adriatic in the southern Telašćica Nature Park and white-pebble heaven on the lovely Saharun beach with its warm, shallow waters. Only later do you realise what's missing: traffic, people and noise.

Insider's tip: Dugi Otok is served by ferry and catamaran from Zadar to Božava, Brbinj, Sali and Zaglav. It's also possible to visit as a one-day excursion from Zadar.

Brač is blessed with the magnificent Zlatni Rat beach in the harbour town of Bol, Croatia's top windsurfing destination. The island appeals to adventurous types with its excellent water-sports facilities and well-marked hiking and cycling paths. Behind Bol rises Vidova Gora (780m), the highest point on the Croatian islands – climb to the top for astounding views. Brač's hilly interior supports sheep farming – dine on lamb, roasted whole on a spit, at the lovely Kaštil Gospodnetić in Dol – while the island's quarries have generated a population of skilled sculptors and you can visit the Stonemasonry School in Pušišća to see some of their work.

Insider's tip: Try stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) with Aldura in Sutivan on Brač's north coast.

Rising from the sparkling Adriatic, Croatia's most distant island is visited mainly by yachters, who moor up in Vis Town to feast on fresh fish at Villa Kaliopa or Pojoda (Don Cvjetka Marasovića 8; +385 21 711 575), or venture inland to Roki's (Plisko Poje 17; +385 98 303 483) for octopus slow-cooked under a peka (a metal domed-lid pot, buried under glowing embers). The Ancient Greeks settled Vis in the 4th century BC, attracted by fertile fields and sheltered bays, and under Yugoslavian rule it was a military naval base, closed to foreigners. Relative isolation has kept commercialism at bay, so the bounty of, local produce served at the island’s many tiny family restaurants is mostly organic.

Insider's tip: For guided hiking tours, contact Vis-based adventure sports specialists Alternatura .

Christened Felix Arba, ‘Happy Rab’, by the Romans, the greenest island in the Kvarner Gulf is a place of pinch-me beauty. Viewed from the sea, Rab Town has the look of a grand medieval galleon built of pale stone, with narrow, steep staircases in place of rigging and four elegant bell-towers for masts. A warren of terracotta-roofed mansions and Romanesque churches, its cobbled alleys are lit by flickering candles come nightfall. And the island's northern coast, near Lopar, is laced with sandy coves, a rarity in Croatia.

Insider's tip: Be sure to try Rapska torta, an almond cake unique to the island and said to have first been created when Pope Alexander III visited Rab in 1177.

Korčula Town, sitting compact on a tiny medieval-walled peninsula, reveals stone stairways, noble palazzi and a Gothic-Renaissance cathedral – seen from the sea, it has hardly changed since its most famous citizen, Marco Polo (said to have been born here), embarked on his voyages to the Orient. At dusk, watch a performance of the moreška sword dance, then head into the hills clad with pine woods, vineyards and olive groves, to Konoba Maha or Konoba Mate , two rustic agrotourism eateries serving island specialities made from home produce. To sample the local white, Pošip, visit the welcoming family-run Toreta Winery in Smokvica.

Insider's tip: Explore the Korčula archipelago by sea kayak with Korčurla Outdoor .

Combine urban culture and island escapism (as local nobles did in the 17th century, when they built summer villas here), by visiting Šipan (population 436), one of the Elafiti islets, connected to Dubrovnik's Gruž port by ferry and catamaran. Šipan's two main settlements, Suđurađ (on the east coast) and Šipanska Luka (on the west), both have tumbledown limestone cottages and villas lining sheltered bays filled with fishing boats and yachts. They're connected by a 5km rough track – hire a bike and cycle across the islet, past olive groves and orchards of orange, lemon, fig and carob.

Insider's tip: Eat at informal Konoba Kod Marka in Šipanska Luka – there's no menu but daily specials might include octopus fritters, fresh sea bass and divine homemade chocolate cake.

Homer eulogised this wave-washed island of Aleppo pine and holm oak in his Odyssey, and the World Wide Fund for Nature has named it among the last paradises in the Mediterranean. Mljet's northern third encompasses Mljet National Park , where two interconnected turquoise saltwater lakes are set amid dense woodland. Pomena, the entrance to the park, is just 80 minutes from Dubrovnik by catamaran. Climb up Montokuc for a view of aromatic pines cascading down to the silver-blue Adriatic, or hire a bike and peddle round Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) – in the middle rises a tiny islet, capped by a 12th-century Benedictine monastery, which you can visit by boat.

Insider's tip: Mljet's boutique Stara Skula Gallery hosts painting exhibitions and craft workshops.

An idyllic islet devoted entirely to glamping , Obonjan is served by private shuttle boat from Šibenik. It opened in 2016, and can host up to 700 glampers in its wooden forest lodges and canvas bell-tents under towering pines. There's a beach with sunbeds, straw parasols, DJ music, sea kayaks and SUPs; a spa offering holistic treatments; yoga and meditation classes; an outdoor pool; a stone amphitheatre for concerts; and several eating options, including pizza and Sri Lankan street food. It’s popular with hipsters and the concept is great but Obonjan's eco-credentials could be improved – after all, who needs air-conditioning when you're camping?

Insider's tip: While in Šibenik , be sure to explore the old town, with its Unesco-listed cathedral and a number of sturdy hillside fortresses.

Kornati islands

Incomparable to any other form of transport in Dalmatia, sailing is an absolute must for exploring the pristine waters of Kornati National Park . Encompassing 89 wild, rocky largely uninhabited islands, islets and reefs, it's named after the largest, sage-scented Kornat. Most visitors arrive by private yacht, and come here to drop anchor in one of its sheltered bays (several host simple waterside restaurants), and sunbathe, snooze and snorkel in a blissful blurry blue of endless sea and sky. While looking up, you might even spot rare peregrine falcons.

Insider's tip: On Kornat, fisherman Darko Šimat runs Konoba Darko Strižnja (+385 98 623 168), serving freshly caught seafood – on request, you can join him on an early-morning fishing trip.

Lošinj's main town, Mali Lošinj, sits at the end of a long narrow bay on this self-titled ‘island of vitality’. Once a busy shipyard filled with merchant vessels, its moorings are now home to yachts and excursion boats overlooked by 19th-century villas with gracious gardens, some now boutique hotels . Lošinj's natural attractions include the Aromatic Garden planted with lavender, sage, rosemary and other Mediterranean shrubs, and dolphin watching trips organised by the Blue World Institute, while the Apoxyomenos Museum displays an Ancient Greek bronze sculpture of an athlete, discovered nearby on the sea bed in 1996.

Insider's tip: Shop for essential oils, natural soaps, herbal teas and homemade jams at the Lošinj Aromatic Garden.

Sveti Klement

Southwest of Hvar Town (served by taxi-boat), the Pakleni archipelago is a scattering of islets covered in pine woods and sheltered coves, where yachters drop anchor to swim and snooze. The largest, Sveti Klement, is a real back-to-nature escape, with rough footpaths leading through lush Mediterranean vegetation to secluded pebble beaches , several overlooked by seasonal waterside restaurants and cafes. Best of all is Palmižana, an overgrown botanical garden of pines, palms, mimosa, lilies and fragrant herbs, plus a dozen quirky villas and bungalows – the owner, Dagmar, is a contemporary art collector, and her paintings adorn their boldly coloured walls.

Insider's tip: There's a small general store in the ACI sailing marina on Sveti Klement, where you can buy basics such as bottled water, bread, coffee and milk.

Pag with its bare, pale-pink hills, a landscape as silent and magical as any desert, is unique among the green-sloped Dalmatian islands. It was stripped of its forests by the Venetian Republic, to provide timbers for their galleons. Today, beaten by the harsh bura (northeast wind), it's linked to the mainland by a road bridge. Drive through the rocky moonscape to see hardy sheep grazing wild rosemary, and dine on Paški sir (Pag sheep's cheese) and juicy roast lamb. Through summer, suntanned revellers attend electronic music festivals at Zrće beach, and holidaymakers visit Pag Town with its salt pans and lace makers.

Insider's tip: Book a dairy tour with cheese-tasting at Gligora in Kolan, then buy rounds of cheese) direct from their farm shop.

Veliki Brijun

Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Sophia Loren, along with foreign politicians and royalty, were the glamorous guests entertained by Yugoslav President Tito on the islands of Veliki Brijuni, his beloved private summer retreat from 1945 to 1980. Veliki Brijun is the largest of 14 pine-scented islets within Brijuni National Park , and its beautifully maintained parkland reveals Roman archaeological remains. It’s also home to a number of exotic animals such as elephants, llamas, zebras and ostriches (given to Tito as gifts by visiting dignitaries from South America, Africa and Asia ), as well as deer and peacocks. It’s small enough to do some exploring on foot or there are golf buggies for rent, and a 3-star hotel offers overnight accommodation.

Insider's tip: If you're on Veliki Brijun in July, catch an after-dark open-air performance at Ulysses Theatre .

This story was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK

© Patricia Jekki

Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

If your Mediterranean fantasies feature balmy days by sapphire waters in the shade of ancient walled towns, Croatia is the place to turn them into reality.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

City Walls & Forts

No visit to Dubrovnik is complete without a walk around the spectacular city walls that encircle its historic core. They're among the finest in the world…

Diocletian’s Palace

Taking up a prime harborside position, the extraordinary complex of Diocletian's Palace is one of the most imposing ancient Roman structures in existence…

Plitvice Lakes National Park

By far Croatia's top natural attraction and the absolute highlight of Croatia's Adriatic hinterland, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is a glorious…

Klis Fortress

Controlling the valley leading into Split, the imposing Klis Fortress spreads along a limestone bluff, reaching 1260ft (385m) at its highest point. Its…

Zlatni Rat, Croatia's most photographed beach, extends like a tongue into the sea for about a quarter of a mile (400m). Despite the hype and constant…

Cathedral of St Domnius

Split’s octagonal cathedral is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings still standing. It was built as a mausoleum for Diocletian, the last…

Euphrasian Basilica

Top billing in Poreč goes to the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, a World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s finest intact examples of Byzantine art. Built…

Roman Amphitheatre

Pula’s most famous and imposing sight is this 1st-century oval amphitheatre, overlooking the harbour northeast of the old town. It's a huge and truly…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 top things to do in croatia in 2024.

Mljet National Park

Mljet Island

Covering 5400 hectares of land and sea at the western end of the island of Mljet, this national park offers shady walking and cycling tracks, a ruggedly…

Lush Lokrum is a beautiful, forested island full of holm oaks, black ash, pines and olive trees, only a 10-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik's Old Harbour…

Trg Bana Jelačića

Zagreb’s main orientation point and its geographic heart is Trg Bana Jelačića – it's where most people arrange to meet up. If you enjoy people-watching,…

Biokovo Nature Park

Central Dalmatia

The limestone Biokovo massif offers wonderful hiking opportunities. If you’re hiking independently, you have to enter the park at the beginning of…

Skradinski Buk

Krka National Park

The highlight of Krka National Park, an hour-long loop follows boardwalks, connects little islands in the emerald-green, fish-filled river and terminates…

Kopački Rit Nature Park

Only 12km northeast of Osijek, Kopački Rit Nature Park is one of the largest wetlands in Europe: 293 bird species have been recorded here. Formed by the…

Looming high above the town and lit with a golden glow at night, this medieval castle occupies the site of an ancient Illyrian settlement dating from…

Mother of Mercy Franciscan Monastery

Upstream of Skradinski Buk waterfall the Krka River broadens into Lake Viskovac, a habitat for marsh birds. At its centre is a tree-fringed island, the…

Zadar’s incredible Sea Organ, designed by local architect Nikola Bašić, is unique. Set within the perforated stone stairs that descend into the sea is a…

Sun Salutation

Another wacky and wonderful creation by Nikola Bašić (the local architect who designed the nearby Sea Organ), this 22m-wide circle set into the pavement…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Walking along medieval walls, white-water rafting, and hiking through national parks – all these and more are our favorite things to do in Croatia.

Things to Know

Plan the perfect trip to Croatia with these insider tips on health, safety and etiquette.

Transportation

Croatia's public transport allows you to ditch the car and relax as a ferry gets you from A to B. Here's all you need to know about getting around Croatia.

Visa Requirements

Travel to Croatia is easy. Even if you don't need a visa, you may need to a waiver to visit. Read on for information on visiting or working in Croatia.

Money and Costs

Take the bus. Visit off season. Eat up at local bakeries. We’ve rounded up these and more tips for making your euro go further on your next Croatia trip.

Traveling with Kids

From the tiniest tots to the tallest teens, Croatia has lots of attractions that delight the whole family. Here's how to plan your trip with the kids in tow.

Best Road Trips

With its stunning Adriatic coastline that reveals one beauty spot after another, Croatia was made for road-tripping. Here are seven of the best drives.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Croatia

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Croatia

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

May 28, 2024 • 8 min read

See the highlights of Croatia with this week-long itinerary, perfect for first-time visitors.

Mar 20, 2024 • 11 min read

Mar 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 18, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 18, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 17, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 14, 2024 • 4 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Croatia

Croatia and beyond.

Sailing In Croatia: The Best Croatian Islands To Visit

From the charm of Korcula to the nature of Miljet and the nightlife of Hvar, if you’re sailing in Croatia, these are the best Croatian islands to visit this year.

I’ve spent a lot of time sailing in  Croatia over the last four years, exploring different areas each time. From Split to Dubrovnik, Zadar to Rovinj, it’s one of my favourite countries. I love the landscapes, the colours and the beautiful old cities and towns.  When I’m away, one of my favourite things to do is hop on a boat and explore some of the pretty islands.

There are over 1,200 islands along Croatia’s Adriatic coastline. Some are teeny tiny uninhabited places, while others have towns, villages and lots to do.

Some you can visit for a day by catching a boat from Split or Dubrovnik, while others you might want to charter or book onto a Croatia sailing cruise and spend several days island hopping from the comfort of your yacht or gulet.

I love the freedom of travelling by boat. You can set your own itinerary, spend the morning exploring quaint old towns, your afternoons getting to grips with nature and your evenings wine tasting or partying until the early hours. So, if you’re sailing in Croatia this year, here are my top picks of the best Croatian islands to visit while you’re there.

The Best Croatian Islands To Visit This Year

Hvar is one of the most popular Croatian islands to sail to along the Dalmatian coast. When I visited I loved the contrasts on the island. Stari Grad is charming with its harbour, skinny streets and cute restaurants.

Meanwhile hop on your sailing yacht around to Hvar Town and you’ll see a different side – the party side! Bars like Hula Hula and Kiva, plus nearby club Carpe Diem keep a constant flow of 18-25 year olds in the summer months. If you’re looking for places to stay on the island, I’d recommend reading my guide to the best luxury hotels in Hvar .

I sailed to Korčula Town and spent an afternoon and evening there, and just couldn’t believe how stunning it was. You can soak up the history as you pass 15 th Century walls and wander streets of medieval stone buildings. My favourite spot in Korcula Town was Massimos – a cocktail bar on the top of one of the old fort towers. When you order drinks, they’re delivered using the special dumb waiter which hoists them to the top of the ancient tower. Korcula is also home to quaint villages, pristine beaches and a handful of vineyards.

Sailing in Croatia and want to visit somewhere close to Dubrovnik? Part of Croatia’s Elaphiti Islands, Šipan is one of the closet islands to the city, and is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the weather. Šipanska luka and Suđurađ are the two main villages, both with plenty of charm and lovely views. My favourite spot though is trendy restaurant BOWA. We moored our boat at their jetty, and enjoyed fresh fish and seafood (caught that day) all with those stunning views of the turquoise Adriatic Sea.

Close to Split, Šolta is a very pretty destination to visit by sailing yacht or catamaran, with tranquil promenades leading to secret beaches. Around the small fishing harbour are a few restaurants and cafes, with yachts moored up right outside. Travel around a little way and you’ll find lots of small sections of beach with diving boards and steps leading you into the bright turquoise water.

Not far from Šolta is The Blue Lagoon – one of the most popular swimming spots in the region. Why do so many people want to experience it for themselves? Well it’s known for its bright azure waters, and certainly looked very inviting when I was there last month!

Pag is so different to the other Croatian islands I’ve discussed so far. The rock in Pag is a bright white / grey and the scenery is rugged, and at times, otherworldly. There are some beautiful towns and beaches, plus along with sailing around the island, it’s also connected to the mainland via a bridge.

I visited a few years ago for Hideout Festival, one of many festivals that takes place on Zrce Beach each summer. I also remember the sunsets in Pag being extra special, with a large ball of fiery orange melting into the ocean.

Kornati Islands  

There are around 140 islands making up the Kornati islands, but many are uninhabited. It’s another stunning place to visit on your Croatia sailing holiday, and is known for its bright turquoise waters and nature. If you like diving and snorkelling, this is a great place to do it! Some of the islands are part of Kornati National Park.

Close to the mainland, you’ve probably seen photos of Zlatni Rat beach before – it’s the one with two beaches meeting at a sharp angle, with bright white pebbles and azure waters. If you’re feeling active, climb to the top of Vidova Gora, Brac’s tallest peak at over 2500 ft. The views from the top are some of the best you’ll see in Croatia!

The closest island to Dubrovnik, Lokrum has a fascinating history that includes ancient curses. As well as King’s Landing in Dubrovnik, there’s plenty in Lokrum for Game of Thrones fans.

Wander the Croatian island and enjoy views that will make you think you’ve been transported back to medieval times. Lokrum is a beautiful island to stop off at, explore on foot or take a swim in the Dead Sea.

I hope you enjoyed this post! Have you been sailing in Croatia, or visited any other Croatian islands? I’d love to hear about your fave spots too.

Enjoyed reading this post? Pin it for later…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

9 Best Places to Visit in Croatia, According to Locals

Here's how to see the best of Croatia, from under-the-radar islands to stunning forests and hilltop towns.

The coast of Croatia gets all the love — and though I was born and raised in the country, even I set my gaze on the Adriatic Sea whenever I visit. You can't deny the beauty of hotspots like Dubrovnik and Split, but busy locales like these can also mean crowds, stressed-out service, and little sense of discovery, especially during the peak summer season.

Thankfully, Croatia has more than 1,200 islands you can escape to, as well as coastal towns that remain off the radar, plus a majestic interior that spans idyllic pastoral landscapes and mighty mountains where wildlife roams in nature. There's a lot to see and do — and love — beyond the go-to tourist destinations as well. Here's my list of some of the best places to visit in Croatia.

Jadranko Markoc / Getty Images

For the longest time, Croatia's capital was mostly skipped in favor of more popular destinations down south. That started changing a few years ago, when visitors got wind of the numerous delights this pocket-size metropolis has to offer, including its buzzing art scene and the colorful Christmas market that helped put this city on the wintertime map. Advent festivities, typically held throughout December and into early January, feature alfresco merriment, live music, and street food all around Zagreb's city center, including its ancient Upper Town.

For the plushest place to stay, pick the grand Esplanade Zagreb Hotel , which blends Art Deco flair with the latest modern-day comforts, and serves iconic and traditional štrukli (cottage cheese dumplings) at its restaurant, Le Bistro .

Gorski Kotar

GoranStimac / Getty Images

While the country's coast may be one of the best places to visit in Croatia for local residents and visitors alike, general interest in the great outdoors has spiked in recent years. Enter Gorski Kotar, Croatia's answer to Switzerland, a forested expanse of mountain wilderness that lies southwest of Zagreb, en route to the coast of Kvarner.

This verdant region has become the "it" destination lately, especially for city dwellers looking for an easy-to-reach pocket of pristine nature. Wolves, bears, and the endangered Eurasian lynx can be spotted roaming through Risnjak National Park . Gorski Kotar also offers a number of chic cabins and lodges to rent, such as the spectacular Casa Nube and the adorable Gorska Bajka . Don't miss the chance to indulge in a meal of wild edibles and game meats at the Vagabundina Koliba (Vagabond's Cabin) mountain hut, where the nettle bread is a real treat.

Wilfried Krecichwost / Getty Images

A string of sweet little seaside towns may line Istria, the heart-shaped peninsula in Croatia's northern Adriatic, but Rovinj steals the show for its storybook beauty. The area is so stunning it tends to get regularly jam-packed with visitors between June and September, so the locals will generally try to avoid it that time of year.

It's best to head to Rovinj outside of that busy season, ideally in October or from April to May. Book a stay at the ultra-sleek Grand Park Hotel Rovinj , one of Croatia's most luxurious properties. An architectural stunner with a cascading structure that slopes down to the sea in a twine of fragrant garden terraces, the hotel showcases impressive views of Rovinj's Old Town , with its cobbled piazzas and steep lanes leading up to St. Euphemia Church , a baroque beauty with a copper statue-topped campanile.

At the hotel's fabulous Albaro Wellness & Spa , try the Batana Bodywork treatment, which involves using a stimulating combination of hemp balm, a traditional Rovinj boat's batana oar, and intense rowing motions to massage your sore spots. A meal at the property's Cap Aureo Signature Restaurant is a sensory adventure, as is a walk around the protected forest park of Punta Corrente (Golden Cape), located nearby. And don't leave without checking out the hotel's secret art room.

Inland Istria

xbrchx / Getty Images

While first-time visitors to Istria , easily one of the best places to visit in Croatia, make a beeline for the coast, those in the know swear by the peninsula's green interior. And as soon as you hit those curvy country roads — winding their way through the woods, vineyards and olive groves — you'll see why. It's easy to swoon over the area's bucolic charm, home to medieval towns strewn across the hilltops, and shady forests where prized truffles hide.

Luxury villa rentals tucked away in the Istria countryside are increasingly becoming popular hideaways. Take Stanzia Vinella , a renovated and formerly abandoned hamlet turned rustic-chic retreat, with Wabi-Sabi–inspired interiors and an infinity pool that overlooks the postcard-perfect town of Motovun on the hill just across the way. For a meal of Istrian mainstays, book ahead at Toklarija , an age-old olive-mill-turned-tavern on the hilltop overlooking the village of Sovinjsko Polje.

ultraforma / Getty Images

Few visitors to Croatia pay heed to the coastal city of Šibenik in central Dalmatia; it usually tends to get overshadowed by Split, located just an hour to the south, and, of course, Dubrovnik. What visitors are missing is a true seaside gem, one of a handful of cities in the world with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: St. James Cathedral , a domed basilica built entirely of stone between 1431 and 1535, and the Venetian-era St. Nicholas Fortress , situated on an islet across from the old town.

Šibenik is also home to a number of charming heritage hotels, including boutique Armerun , which opened in summer 2021 along the seafront just steps from the cathedral, and Pelegrini , a seasonal restaurant graced with a Michelin star, where owner and chef Rudi Štefan conjures up some of Croatia's most innovative cuisine. Don't miss a visit to St. Michael's Fortress and Barone Fortress , each known for their alfresco concerts and dazzling panoramas.

Close to Šibenik, the island of Zlarin is best known for its exquisite handmade red coral jewelry. It was also the first island in Croatia to eliminate single-use plastics back in 2019; in the summer of 2021, it was joined by the nearby island of Krapanj as part of a special "Archipelago Without Plastic" campaign.

Locals head here for its beautiful beaches, which may have pebbles in place of sand but offer clear, warm waters perfect for swimming, floating, and snorkeling. Other popular waterfront activities include sea kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, while landlubbers can enjoy hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The island is car-free, giving you the perfect excuse to explore it by bike or on foot. Accommodations are few and far between, with just one hotel and a limited amount of apartments available for rent, so during more crowded times of the year (like summer), it might be worth staying nearby in Šibenik and visiting Zlarin as part of a day trip instead.

_jure / Getty Images

Located just off the coast of Zadar, the island of Silba is a car-free, hotel-free paradise that tends to be frequented by those in the know. You'll note a distinct Boho, offbeat vibe, where the creatives of Croatia prefer to hide away in summertime. It’s also a stellar choice for families, as little ones can run around barefoot and carefree.

Be sure to book your accommodations way ahead of time, as rooms can fill up quickly here. And don't miss the chance to enjoy a sunset dinner of freshly caught seafood at Konoba Alavija . Spend your days sunbathing or playing volleyball, basketball, or tennis at the island's busiest beach, Sotorišce, known for its clear, shallow waters. Under the water, the archaeological ruins of an ancient sarcophagus , estimated to be more than 1,500 years old, can be seen just off the shore of Pocukmarak Bay.

Anton Petrus / Getty Images

Hvar island may already be on everyone's list of the best places to visit in Croatia, but that spotlight mostly shines on Hvar town, which is known for its funky beach party scene. More artsy and low-key, Stari Grad, located along the island's northern side, has been coming into its own lately as an alternative Hvar base — and for all the right reasons.

For starters, Stari Grad has two World Heritage sites: The Stari Grad Plain , with its striking farm landscape that has been cultivated since ancient Greek times, and an old town that dates back to 384 B.C.E. On top of that, Maslinica Bay, just steps from the ferry dock, is home to the chic Maslina Resort , featuring Asian-Mediterranean fusion flair and design and a spa with "garden to skin" treatments that showcase herbs from the resort's organic garden.

Westend61 / Getty Images

Taking a trip to Pag is comparable to taking a trip to the moon. The island is well known for its barren, lunar-like landscapes, as well as for the epic parties that take over the beaches of Zrće come summertime. But beyond the raucous revelry, the island is home to one of Croatia's loveliest family-run hotels, Boškinac , which sports an award-winning winery and a Michelin-starred restaurant within a beautifully renovated stone building surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, just inland from the coastal town of Novalja.

Pag is also known for its fragrant, hard, and strong sheep's milk cheeses. Gligora Dairy , which keeps racking up awards internationally, offers tastings of this local delicacy. While on Pag, check out the Pag Triangle — a mysterious land formation near Novalja that's rumored to be the site of a UFO landing — and the walkway through the ancient olive groves of Lun , where most of the trees are as many as 1,500 years old.

Related Articles

• The Best Islands To Visit...

The Best Islands to Visit Near Split, Croatia

There are plenty of great things to do in Split , but the delights of island-hopping are hard to overstate. With secluded coves, crystal waters and fragrant pines, the magnificent rugged landscapes of the Croatian islands offer a quintessential Mediterranean escape.

The gateway to a string of Adriatic islands, Split is the ideal place to begin your island-hopping odyssey. The closest is the Unesco-protected Trogir, which has medieval architecture in droves, surrounded by ancient fortifications. Next along is Čiovo, with a lively marina offering seaside dining and lively bars. For variety, Brač Island provides both well-equipped tourist resorts and untouched beaches, while a shell’s throw away is Hvar, an island that brims with high-end hotels, upscale restaurants and hedonistic nightspots. But if you’re really looking to get away from it all, the southernmost island of Vis offers spectacular natural scenery at every turn.

Explore the most beautiful islands near Split by hiring a yacht for the day through SamBoat . Alternatively, Dream Yacht Charter offer multi-day sailing holidays around Croatia.

Natural Feature

If your visions of an Adriatic island consist of sunny beaches, blazingly blue waters and palm-lined seafronts, then Šolta is just the ticket. Conveniently located near Split, the island is best reached by catamaran – and the ride takes just half an hour. A settlement of terracotta-roofed villas splayed out across 59sqkms (23sqmi) of pine forests and scrubland, this teeny-tiny island offers a quieter, more relaxed experience than Split. Here, visitors revel in the gentler pace of Dalmatian life and its family-run restaurants. Be sure to sample a glass of Dobričić wine, named after the ancient red grape that’s native to the island. Šolta anchovies served in lashings of locally produced olive oil are also a speciality.

Possibly the most luxurious destination in Croatia, Hvar has long enjoyed a reputation for opulence – and indeed, hedonism. The island has experienced a tourist boom like no other, boasting swish contemporary hotels, VIP clubs and a marina packed with superyachts. A popular resort for the holidaying elite, Hvar has welcomed celebrities, film stars and even royalty to its shores. Beyond the main town, the island is a more laid-back affair, with rolling fields of pastoral land, vineyards and citrus groves. The journey time from Split is just under two hours – easily doable as a day trip , but an overnight stay is advisable.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Further out into the Adriatic, Vis was a naval military base until the 1990s, when intrepid travellers began to explore its fishing communities of Komiža and Vis Town. What they found was an idyllic outpost little changed since undercover agent Evelyn Waugh landed in 1944 on a mission to liaise with Tito at his secret hideout. Remote and idiosyncratic, Vis is now a gastronomic getaway, its key dining destinations reliant on the daily catch and locally cultivated produce. From Split, the ferry takes around two hours, depending on the route taken.

Linked to Trogir by bridge, the modest settlement of Čiovo isn’t quite as architecturally impressive as its neighbour, but visitors are drawn to this island by its abundance of pebble stone beaches, stretching along 10km (6mi) of coastline. In town, the seafront promenade buzzes with late-night bars, seafood restaurants and the occasional local club, flanked by swaying palms. Čiovo is an easy ferry hop from Split and makes a good base if you prefer to explore the mainland from the tranquility of an island.

Like its signature beach Zlatni Rat – a swathe of pristine white pebbles that moves with the changing of the tide – Brač is an island known for the shape-shifting quality of its landscapes. The main town of Supetar features a harbourfront of dazzling white buildings, constructed using the stone for which the island is famous. A transport hub with regular ferry services (and a crescent-shaped beach to sunbathe on while you await your boat), Supetar is just 50 minutes from Split, making it ideal as both a day trip or an overnight stay. The seaside resort of Bol, located next to the popular Zlatni Rat Beach, is pleasant but often crowded – tranquillity-seekers should instead take advantage of the island’s expanse of wild scenery, which encompasses secluded beaches and vast a green interior dotted with lavender fields and vineyards.

Avoid the crowds by chartering a yacht from SamBoat for the day or hire a boat for a week through Dream Yacht Charter – no experience necessary.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Bars & Cafes

The best nightclubs in split, croatia.

Places to Stay

Where to stay in split, croatia, for a local experience.

Restaurants

The best restaurants in split, croatia.

The Best Bars in Split, Croatia

Guides & Tips

How to get from split to dubrovnik by boat.

The Best Spa Hotels to Book in Split, Croatia

See & Do

Amazing day trips to take from split, croatia, by boat.

A Solo Traveller's Guide to Split

How to Spend 7 Days Island Hopping Around Split, Croatia

The Best Hotels in Split, Croatia, for Every Traveller

A Guide to Sailing Around Split, Croatia

Hip Apartments in Split, Croatia, You'll Want to Call Home

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1001441421
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Nature-spotting and island hopping in the wonderful, wild Dubrovnik Riviera

Discover the best spots to relax and restore in the beautiful dubrovnik riviera region.

Article bookmarked

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

When summer comes, sometimes all you want to do is escape city life and immerse yourself in nature. So for secluded golden beaches, stretches of shaded forest and peaceful national parks, look no further than the Dubrovnik Riviera.

Of course, Dubrovnik itself boasts myriad charms: a UNESCO heritage town with ancient fortified walls, beautiful Baroque architecture, and a spectacular main street, the Stradun. But the Riviera region beyond also has a huge amount to offer, particularly if you’re looking for that getting-away-from-it-all feeling and a slower pace of life. It falls under the domain of Dubrovnik-Neretva, Croatia’s southernmost county, and with only 127,000 residents scattered across an area of nearly 700 square miles, there’s a true sense of space, freedom, and utter relaxation.

Idyllic islands

The Riviera’s natural beauty will captivate you, and its handful of islands have this in spades. Start with the stunning landscapes of Korčula, reached by a two-hour catamaran journey from Dubrovnik. You can also catch a ferry here from Orebić in Pelješac, which takes just 20 minutes, or alternatively from Split. This idyllic spot got its name when the Ancient Greeks saw its dense oak and pine forests and called it Korkyra Melaina , meaning ‘Black Corfu’. The mediaeval main town offers picturesque cobbled streets and a 15th century Gothic Renaissance cathedral, but away from its quiet charm you’ll find unspoiled beaches and coves, and acres of vineyards and olive groves which produce the island’s excellent local olive oil and wine.

Don’t miss the archaeological site of Vela Spila, on the west coast, a large, domed cavern which housed prehistoric communities over 18,000 years ago. Korčula has an archipelago of its own, called Škoji: hop on a water taxi from the old town’s marina to explore the idyllic isles of Badija, home to a 15th century Franciscan monastery and a flock of fallow deer, the busier Stupe which has a beach club with a restaurant and bar, and small, delightful Vrink, with a pebbled beach perfect for paddling and sunbathing.

Outdoor adventures

Another pretty island is Mljet, located just off the Pelsejac peninsula, which boasts Mediterranean vegetation, crystal-clear seas, and soft, sandy shorelines. At its western end you’ll find 13,000 acres of tranquil National Park, criss-crossed with sheltered walking and cycling tracks, a ruggedly beautiful coastline, ancient ruins and two saltwater lakes.

One of the most popular hikes is the trail that leads to the summit of Montokuc, the highest point of the island, which will reward you with a stunning panorama, but if you prefer to explore on two wheels, there are several bike trails which take you through forests, along the lakeshore, and past beautiful viewpoints.

If you enjoy swimming and snorkelling, dive right into the calm, crystal clear waters of Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). Alternatively, you can explore them by kayak, taking in the scenic forest and cliff views at your own pace; look out for the small islet of St Mary’s in the middle, home to an ancient Benedictine monastery.

Secluded shores

Lastovo is a tiny paradise which is Croatia’s most remote inhabited island. With a population of less than a thousand people, this is where to head when you want absolute quiet and seclusion. Here you’ll find thick forests, craggy coastline, and peaceful walking trails, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the waves rolling in, and occasional birdsong. Together with its surrounding archipelago, it makes up the Lastovsko Otocje, or Lastovo Nature Park, one of the best-preserved marine areas in the Adriatic. Think cliff top views, woodland hikes, and swimming around sea caves and coral reefs, all within a chain of small islands.

For another secluded spot that offers natural beauty, shade and a gorgeous beach then take a trip to Betina Cave, not far from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Only accessible by sea, you can take a boat trip or even paddle there on a guided kayak trip, then enjoy its sheltered surrounds and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling and swimming.

Last, but not least, make time for the Elaphite Islands: Šipan, Lopud, and Koločep. Populated with just a handful of people (between them, there are fewer than a thousand residents), they truly offer the chance to switch off and unwind. The islands get their name from the Greek word elafos , meaning deer; and quiet beaches, serene pine forests, and calm, turquoise waters make up their unspoiled landscape.

Lopud is car-free, but you can rent bikes or kayaks to explore your surroundings; there are also a few churches dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, as well as the remains of the Rector’s Palace, and the ruins of a fortress. The smallest of the islands is Kolocep, which provides the ultimate in tranquillity; take a trip to its Blue Cave, so-named because the water within it is a startling shade of azure.

Finally, Sipan has a bit more buzz, mainly because it’s bigger, and also allows cars, but you can still find relaxing beaches and quiet coves. Its two main villages, Sudjuradj, on the southeastern tip of the island, and Sipanska Luka, on the western side, are each centred around a bay, where you’ll find cafes, bars and restaurants, perfect for relaxing and replenishing after a day enjoying the great outdoors.

For more Dubrovnik travel inspiration and information, head to Visit Dubrovnik

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

20 magical places to visit in Croatia

Posted: 27 October 2023 | Last updated: 27 October 2023

Krka National Park

Elaphiti Archipelago

Zlatni Rat Beach

Historical walled city of Dubrovnik

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Mljet National Park

Gorski Kotar

Kornati National Park

More for You

Stephen Hawking once gave a simple answer as to whether there was a God

Six beers that are good for your gut health – and the ones to avoid

Nigeria’s First Lady slams US celebs just days after Meghan Markle visit: ‘We don’t accept nakedness’

Flight attendant reveals why you should skip airline food on long haul plane journeys

I drank apple cider vinegar every day for 10 days like Victoria Beckham— here’s what happened to my body

The 20 best sci-fi movie sequels

Cars that drivers ditch quickest: One very popular EV brand tops the list...

Graham Potter Transfer News: Man Utd target set for shock return as Chelsea announce Enzo Maresca

Scientists finally solve 4,000-year-old mystery behind ‘Seahenge’

What jobs can 16-year-olds do? Everything you need to know

Flight attendant explains why you should always throw a bottle of water under hotel beds

5 appliances you should never plug into an extension cord

The UK government wants your views on the future of classic cars

Last remaining Second World War escort ship risks being scrapped

20 stupid movies that are actually genius

Euro Paper Talk: £80m double Liverpool deal accelerates as Edwards ‘intensifies’ move for Argentine star; Brighton ace reveals Man City dream

All the things that happens to your body if you’re constantly waking up at 6am

New Dinosaur Death Theory: Study Suggests Massive Meteorite Strike Is Only Part of the Story

How a humble civil servant could end up holding ‘extraordinary power’ over Donald Trump

I tried charging an EV at home and it was a shock I wasn't expecting

The Ultimate Guide To Exploring Slovenia, Italy, And Croatia

• Last updated May 31, 2024
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category Travel

Have you ever dreamed of exploring the picturesque landscapes of Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia? From the breathtaking beauty of Lake Bled in Slovenia, to the enchanting canals of Venice in Italy, to the stunning seaside towns of Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, this ultimate guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through three of Europe's most captivating countries. Whether you're a history buff eager to explore ancient ruins, a nature lover seeking adventure in the great outdoors, or a foodie yearning to indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, this guide has something for everyone. Get ready to discover the hidden gems, embrace the local culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this mesmerizing corner of the world.

What You'll Learn

Introduction to exploring slovenia, italy, and croatia, must-visit destinations in slovenia, italy, and croatia, tips for seamless travel and navigation in slovenia, italy, and croatia, experiencing the culinary delights and cultural wonders of slovenia, italy, and croatia.

If you are looking for an unforgettable travel experience, then exploring Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia should be at the top of your list. These three countries, located in the heart of Europe, offer a diverse range of landscapes, cultural attractions, and culinary delights that will leave you mesmerized.

Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia all share a common border, making it incredibly easy to travel between them. Whether you choose to explore one country at a time or take a road trip to discover all three, there are plenty of options for every type of traveler.

To start your journey, you can fly into the capital city of Slovenia, Ljubljana. This charming city is known for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and lively café culture. Take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River and explore the picturesque old town, complete with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings.

From Ljubljana, you can easily venture out to explore the stunning natural beauty of Slovenia. Visit Lake Bled, a picture-perfect lake surrounded by mountains and a fairy-tale castle. Take a boat ride to the island in the middle of the lake and climb up to the church for breathtaking views. Don't forget to try the famous Bled cream cake, a delicious local specialty.

Next, it's time to head to Italy. You can either take a train or drive through the beautiful countryside to reach Venice, one of the most iconic cities in the world. Explore the maze-like streets, admire the stunning architecture, and take a gondola ride along the canals. Don't miss the opportunity to visit St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace.

From Venice, you can continue your Italian adventure by visiting the famous cities of Florence and Rome. In Florence, marvel at the beautiful art and architecture, including Michelangelo's David and the Duomo. In Rome, explore ancient ruins like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, and make a wish at the Trevi Fountain.

Now it's time to head to Croatia. Drive or take a ferry to the coastal city of Split, where you can explore the historic Diocletian's Palace and relax on the beautiful sandy beaches. From Split, you can take a boat to the stunning islands of Hvar or Dubrovnik, known for their crystal-clear waters and charming old towns.

In Dubrovnik, walk along the famous city walls for panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and explore the narrow streets of the Old Town. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby island of Lokrum, a nature reserve known for its peacocks and beautiful botanical garden.

Traveling between Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia is a unique experience that offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, these three countries have something for everyone. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting part of Europe.

Examining the Speculation: Is Biden Considering Travel Restrictions to Florida?

You may want to see also

If you are planning a trip to Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia, you are in for a treat. These three neighboring countries offer a wide range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that are a must-visit for any traveler. From picturesque lakes and charming coastal towns to world-renowned historical sites, there is something for everyone in this part of Europe. In this article, we will explore some of the must-visit destinations in each country to help you plan your itinerary.

• Lake Bled: Lake Bled is one of the most iconic and picturesque destinations in Slovenia. Surrounded by mountains and adorned with a beautiful island and a medieval castle, it is a sight to behold. You can rent a boat and row to the island, visit the castle for panoramic views, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake.
• Ljubljana: The capital city of Slovenia, Ljubljana, is a charming and vibrant city that shouldn't be missed. Explore the cobbled streets of the old town, visit the famous Triple Bridge and the Ljubljana Castle, and take a boat ride along the Ljubljanica River. Don't forget to try some of the local cuisine and visit the bustling food markets.
• Rome: No visit to Italy is complete without a visit to Rome. This eternal city is a treasure trove of historical sites, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. Wander through the narrow streets of Trastevere, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and enjoy a gelato in Piazza Navona.
• Florence: Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a must-visit for art lovers. Admire the iconic Duomo, visit the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by Botticelli and Michelangelo, and stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio. Don't forget to try the local Tuscan cuisine, including a delicious Florentine steak.
• Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik's old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is truly like stepping back in time. Walk along the ancient city walls for breathtaking views, visit the Lovrijenac Fort, and explore the narrow streets to discover hidden gems. Take a cable car ride to Mount Srd for a panoramic view of the city.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: Croatia is famous for its stunning natural beauty, and Plitvice Lakes National Park is a prime example. This park is home to a series of interconnected lakes and waterfalls, creating a magical landscape. Take a leisurely walk along the wooden walkways, enjoy a boat ride on the lakes, and breathe in the fresh air.

These are just a few of the must-visit destinations in Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia. Each country has much more to offer, so take the time to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle, you won't be disappointed with this travel itinerary. Don't forget to sample the local cuisine and indulge in the flavors of each country – bon voyage!

Exploring the Transformative Journey of the Electromagnetic Spectrum across Distances

Traveling to Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia can be an exciting and memorable experience. With their rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures, these countries have a lot to offer. However, navigating through different countries and cultures can sometimes be challenging. To help make your trip seamless and stress-free, here are some tips:

• Plan your itinerary: Start by planning your itinerary before your trip. Research the top attractions, cities, and regions you want to visit in each country. Consider the length of your stay and the transportation options available in each location.
• Check visa requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visas for each country you plan to visit. Some nationalities may require visas in advance, while others may be eligible for visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry. Check the official embassy websites for up-to-date visa information.
• Pack smart: When packing for your trip, make sure you bring appropriate clothing for different climates and activities. During the summer, comfortable and lightweight clothing is recommended, while warmer clothing is necessary for autumn and winter visits. Don't forget to pack comfortable walking shoes as there will be a lot of walking and exploring.
• Learn basic language and cultural etiquette: While English is widely spoken in these countries, it is always appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn basic phrases in the local language. Greetings, thank you, and please are a good place to start. Also, familiarize yourself with the local customs and cultural etiquette to show respect for the locals.
• Consider public transportation: Public transportation in Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia is generally reliable and efficient. Trains, buses, and boats connect major cities and towns, making it easy to get around. If you plan on using public transportation extensively, consider getting a travel card or pass, which can save you money and provide unlimited access for a specific duration.
• Rent a car: If you prefer more flexibility and independence, renting a car is a great option. It allows you to explore rural areas and off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace. However, keep in mind that driving regulations and road conditions may vary between countries. Familiarize yourself with local driving laws and always purchase comprehensive insurance coverage.
• Use mobile navigation apps: Download reliable navigation apps like Google Maps or Maps.me to your smartphone. These apps can help you navigate through unfamiliar cities, find the nearest attractions, and provide real-time updates on traffic conditions. Check if your mobile service provider offers affordable international data roaming plans or consider getting a local SIM card for mobile internet access.
• Get local currency: While credit cards are widely accepted in most places, it's always a good idea to have local currency on hand, especially for small purchases and for places that may not accept cards. Exchange currency at authorized exchange offices or withdraw cash from ATMs to get the best exchange rates. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any payment issues or card blocks.
• Stay connected: Staying connected is essential for navigating through different countries. Consider purchasing a portable Wi-Fi device or getting an international data plan for your smartphone. This will allow you to access maps, make reservations, and stay in touch with your loved ones throughout your journey.
• Stay safe and be aware: Finally, always prioritize your safety and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings secure, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be cautious in crowded places. Stay informed about local news, weather conditions, and any travel advisories or warnings before your trip.

By following these tips, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience through Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia. Embrace the beauty and diversity of these countries and create memories to last a lifetime.

The Logistics of Travel for G League Teams: Exploring the Journey of Basketball Players

Embarking on a journey through Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia is like stepping into a gastronomic wonderland. These three countries are famous for their rich culinary traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures. From the charming streets of Ljubljana to the romantic canals of Venice and the ancient ruins of Dubrovnik, each destination offers a unique experience that will leave you craving more.

When it comes to planning your itinerary, it’s essential to consider the best time to visit each country, as well as the specific attractions and experiences you don’t want to miss. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some highlights and recommendations for each destination.

Slovenia, the hidden gem of Europe, is a country known for its stunning natural beauty. Start your journey in the charming capital city of Ljubljana, where you can explore the picturesque old town and visit the iconic Ljubljana Castle. Don’t forget to indulge yourself in a traditional Slovenian meal at one of the local restaurants, where you can savor dishes like potica (a rolled pastry with various fillings) and kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage).

From Ljubljana, take a day trip to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s most famous destinations. Here, you can marvel at the emerald-green lake, visit the enchanting Bled Castle, and indulge in a slice of the famous Bled cream cake.

Next, it’s time to explore Italy, the land of pasta, pizza, and gelato. Start your Italian adventure in Venice, the city of canals and romantic gondola rides. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the city, visit the iconic St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, and don’t forget to try a traditional Venetian cicchetti (tapas) at a local bacaro.

After Venice, head to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history by visiting the iconic Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery, which houses some of the world’s most famous artworks. Indulge in a traditional Florentine steak or a plate of fresh pasta, and wash it down with a glass of Chianti wine.

The final stop on your culinary journey is Croatia, a country known for its stunning coastline and Mediterranean cuisine. Start in the vibrant city of Split, where you can explore the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local waterfront restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Plitvice Lakes National Park, home to a series of cascading lakes and breathtaking waterfalls.

Lastly, make your way to Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Walk along the ancient city walls, visit the Game of Thrones filming locations, and take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Srd for panoramic views of the city. Indulge in some traditional Dalmatian cuisine, such as crni rižot (black risotto) or pašticada (a slow-cooked beef dish).

Throughout your journey, don’t forget to try the local wines and spirits, such as Slovenia’s Teran wine, Italy’s Prosecco, and Croatia’s rakija. And of course, be sure to take some time to relax and soak up the beautiful landscapes, whether it’s the lush green hills of Slovenia, the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, or the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia.

In conclusion, a trip through Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia is a true feast for the senses. From the delicious cuisine to the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this journey is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime.

The Complete Guide to Obtaining a Travel Visa and Applying for Asylum

Frequently asked questions.

As a tourist, you will need a valid passport to enter and exit all three countries. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or engage in specific activities, you may need additional visas. Check with the respective embassies or consulates for up-to-date information.

The most convenient way to travel between these countries is by car or organized tours. There are also trains and buses connecting major cities, but they might not offer as much flexibility in terms of exploring smaller towns and remote areas.

Each country has its own entry requirements and restrictions regarding COVID-19. It is crucial to check the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by the governments of Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia. These might include proof of vaccination, negative COVID-19 tests, or quarantine upon arrival.

The duration of your trip would depend on your interests and the places you wish to visit. Ideally, at least 7-10 days would allow you to explore significant attractions in each country. However, if you want to delve deeper into the regions or spend more time in specific areas, consider extending your trip accordingly.

• Duke Trotter Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

• Pop Panupong Author Reviewer Traveller

It is awesome. Thank you for your feedback!

We are sorry. Plesae let us know what went wrong?

We will update our content. Thank you for your feedback!

Leave a comment

Travel photos, related posts.

The Differences Between Known Traveler Number and PassID Number

• Jun 03, 2024

The Complete Guide to Exchanging Money for Travel

• May 12, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Marrying a Russian on a Travel Visa

• May 02, 2024

How to Find Your Known Traveler Number on Your Boarding Pass

• May 31, 2024

Understanding How GeoBlue Travel Insurance Pays Hospitals Directly

• May 15, 2024

A Guide on Financing Your London Tube Travel

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

26 Memorial Day Weekend Travel Deals, From Half-Price Cruises to Discounted Island Villas

By Kyler Alvord

It's that time of year again—spring is finally turning into summer and travelers are excitedly planning their next great vacation. As we celebrate Memorial Day weekend, the last hurrah before the official beginning of the summer season, we can't forget about the many great travel deals that are popping up this week. From PLAY's Memorial Day flash sale to Cruise Croatia 's 20 percent off savings for active and retired military, there is no shortage of great deals.

This season, rental car companies are doling out major savings, airlines are beefing up their getaway deals, and countless hotels and resorts are slashing room rates to compete for your attention. Think 25 percent off an upgraded Avis or Budget rental car and flights starting at just $14. Plus, Holland America Line has extended its anniversary sale of nearly half-price cruise fares to the end of May, Rocky Mountaineer is offering couples $1,000 off its scenic train expeditions, and some of Bermuda's best island properties and resorts are going for 30 percent off . Jump on these deals while they’re hot.

Flight deals

Train deals, hotel deals, cruise deals.

• More travel deals

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Jamie Spain.

Lufthansa airline plane on the tarmac

College students save big on Lufthansa flights and baggage fees

Verify your student status with Lufthansa and immediately reap the rewards, unlocking a host of discounted economy flights between the United States and Europe, India, Africa, or the Middle East. Students also earn one free piece of checked baggage and the option to get a refund without fees. The program only applies to students in college who are over the age of 16.

Cut costs big time with Frontier Airlines’ shockingly cheap one-way flight sales

Spring sales are in full swing at Frontier Airlines , where travelers can currently snag one-way flights as cheap as $14 between select locations on select dates. This option works best if you’re flexible with dates and destinations—you won’t have a lot of wiggle room with these deals. If you’re feeling restless, on a budget, or are eager to get out of town, consider Frontier for an affordable start to your getaway.

Icelandic airline Play taking flight

Get fares as low as $99 during PLAY's flash sale

Icelandic airline Play serves up regular specials to entice Americans to explore the other side of the Atlantic. Right now is an extra-great time to book that spur-of-the-moment trip you’ve been dying to take thanks to the Memorial Day sale. From now until May 27, fares at PLAY are as low as $99 from the US to Iceland, and start at just $129 to Copenhagen, Berlin, Dublin, Amsterdam, London, Paris, Dusseldorf, and Hamburg. The deal is valid for flights taken between August 2024 and December 2024. You can also take advantage of the Weekend Break flight specials which include a number of dual-continent itineraries at unbeatable prices—some clocking below $150 each way—departing from cities like New York , Baltimore, Toronto, Washington, DC, and Boston, and ending at all the major hotspots from London to Amsterdam .

Save up to 30 percent on vacation packages with Spirit Airlines

The budget airline is making it a cinch to save big not just on airfare, but hotels and more with its vacation packages , which are currently up to 30 percent off when travelers book a combination of flights, hotels, or rental cars together. Several of the top deals offer trips to Las Vegas and Cancun from cities like Chicago , Houston , and Atlanta , starting at surprisingly low prices that include flights and a hotel.

Save up to 40 percent on hotel stays with Etihad Airways’ Stopover Package

Stopover packages are a great way to add another destination to your journey without spending too much extra cash. Travelers who want to experience Abu Dhabi can take advantage of Etihad Airways’ discounted Stopover Packages , which currently include up to two free nights in select three- or four-star hotels, or 40 percent off two- or four-night hotel stays at premium properties. The offer also comes with discounts on restaurants and other experiences, as well as amenities like 24-hour check-in and complimentary Wi-Fi. Travelers must make bookings at least three days in advance before arriving in Abu Dhabi.

Rocky Mountaineer is famous for its incredible views of the North American West

Ride out Amtrak’s range of ongoing sales

Amtrak is always offering some good longer-lasting deals. Students aged 17–24 can enjoy up to 15 percent in savings on train rides booked at least a day in advance, trimming costs on a variety of routes that range from coast to coast with no change fees. Plus, on most journeys, seniors save 10 percent on ticket costs—that means travelers 65 and over for qualifying domestic trips and ages 60 and up on cross-border expeditions. And, Amtrak has sweetened the savings on its children’s discount , so little ones between two and 12 years old may travel for 50 percent off with an accompanying adult.

Save 10 percent on Grand Canyon Railway getaway packages

The Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel, home to one of the most scenic train routes in the US , will cover all the bases with its two- and three-night getaway packages that include lodging, meals, and—of course—a train ride through the Southwest’s most-visited national park. The bundles are currently 10 percent off the usual price for an undetermined amount of time, meaning if there was ever a moment to jump on the full canyon experience, it’s now.

Plan a large group outing and earn the seventh spot free

Looking to take your next family reunion to a new level? Get the ol’ college friends back together? Go on a quadruple date? Whatever the occasion, EF Go Ahead Tours’ Group Travel Program caters to large groups, allowing you to handcraft your next experience and save some money along the way. For every six people who sign up, you’ll get a seventh tour spot for free. You can view this as buy six tickets, get one free; or buy 12, get two free; or buy 18, get three free—you get the point. There’s no cap to the number of free spots you can earn. Why not go all out?

Firework content

This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

Save on select Ace Hotel properties, including its Brooklyn location

Get up to 20 percent off at Ace Hotels when you pay early

Ace Hotel’s Greetings From the Future deal rewards guests who book—and pay—at least two weeks in advance by trimming up to 20 percent off the reservation price. The discount, cleverly branded as “paying it forward for future you,” applies at multiple Ace locations and can be secured by booking through the deal webpage.

Book a suite with Loews Hotels and get extra on-site perks

Loews Hotels is sweetening its suite experience by giving travelers up to $125 daily for food and drink—the credit amount varies by location—plus free Premium Plus Wi-Fi. Currently, the hotels offering the largest dining credits are Loews Miami Beach and Loews Regency New York , but other properties still put up a good fight. Check out the offer page to find out what you can expect at your dream Loews destination.

Bundle flights with an Atlantis Bahamas resort stay and save up to $300

Guests can save up to 40 percent when booking flights and rooms at the same time through Atlantis Paradise Islands’ website, plus up to $300 in resort credit based on the length of the stay. All five of Atlantis’ Bahamas resorts are honoring the special, and the only conditions are that guests stay a minimum of two nights at the resort and pay the flight and hotel costs in full at the time of booking. You can also take advantage of the summer sale and see savings of up to 25 percent off and up to $400 in resort credits when you book now through June 19. Sales are valid on stays of four nights or more at The Coral, The Royal, The Reef, and The Cove.

The Davenport Hotel Collection

Take up to 40 percent off at The Davenport Hotel Collection

If you’re heading up to the Pacific Northwest this summer, consider taking a trip to Spokane, Washington, where you can stay in one of the five Davenport Hotel Collection properties for up to 40 percent off. The city has over 76 lakes nearby, making it the perfect summer destination to enjoy a variety of lakeside water activities.

Get a sweet, suite deal at Mondrian Los Angeles

Level up your LA vacay with discounted suites at Mondrian Los Angeles—they’re currently 20 percent off and also come with a $25 daily in-room dining credit and guaranteed late check out of 1 p.m. (early check-in is based upon availability; the deal also is subject to availability, and blackout dates may apply). The suites offer travelers a spiffy home base right in the heart of West Hollywood, and the property’s dreamy rooftop pool is a perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing and celeb spotting.

Hop on a free catamaran cruise in Jamaica with Beaches Resort

If you’re looking for a dreamy island getaway, look no further. Those who book a Jamaican trip with Beaches to either Beaches Negril or Beaches Ocho Rios can expect a free catamaran cruise on bookings of five nights or more. Stay seven nights or more to also get $250 in resort credit. Use the code JJAM2024 to secure the deal.

Save 15 percent or more on spontaneous bookings with Booking.com

Booking.com loves a getaway deal , which comes in handy if you’re still not sure where you’re staying for that last-second trip you’re trying to pull together. The site promises at least—not “up to”—15 percent off qualifying hotels of all price ranges, which are sorted by destination on the site to help guide you to a decision.

Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort

Unlock up to two free nights at thousands of Wyndham properties worldwide

From now until August 31, Wyndham rewards members have the chance to earn up to 15,000 bonus points (worth two free nights). Stay two consecutive nights at a Wyndham property to earn 7,500 bonus points, three consecutive nights to earn 12,500 bonus points, and four or more consecutive nights to earn 15,000 bonus points. Rewards members can also expect savings of up to 20 percent off or more when they book a stay for three or more consecutive nights between May 22 and July 15, 2024. Stays must be redeemed by September 30. You can join Wyndham’s rewards program for free here .

Save 20 percent at Omni Hotels on three-night stays

Omni’s Spring Savings offer is crystal clear: At the chain’s participating hotels and resorts, guests can now save 20 percent on bookings of three nights or longer. Book directly through the offer page and the deal is done, no additional effort required.

Take up to 15 percent off properties at Extra Holidays

Whether you’re looking for a sunny summer destination like Daytona Beach or the US Virgin Islands , or want to experience city life in Atlanta or Las Vegas , Extra Holidays has tons of great hotels to choose from. Guests will see savings of up to 15 percent off at properties from Club Wyndham, WorldMark by Wyndham, Margaritaville Vacation Club, and more, as long as they book between now and July 8. There is also a flash Memorial Day sale running through May 30 where guests can book a three-night stay and get the fourth night free.

Take up to 30 percent off hotels and resorts in Bermuda

Take a much-deserved trip to Bermuda this summer and get up to 30 percent off select properties like the Coco Reef Resort and Rosewood Bermuda through the HellOOO Summer Sale . Remember to book by June 15 to secure your savings and enjoy Bermuda’s pink sand beaches.

Hurtigruten Expeditions cruises

Take 45 percent off Holland America Line cruise fares

Holland America Line is extending its Anniversary Sale through May 31 in honor of Memorial Day. The highlight of the deal is snagging up to 45 percent off fares for cruises between May 2024 and April 2025, but you can also get up to $300 in onboard credit, a 50 percent reduced deposit, and—on select cruises—you can bring third and fourth guests for free.

See up to 15 percent in savings and up to $2,200 in ship credit on select Seabourn voyages

Take to the waters with Seaborn to “sea” some really great savings on select 2024 and 2025 trips. Guests can save up to 15 percent on select voyages when they book between now and June 25, 2024, like an 18-day trip through Chile and Antarctica , or a cruise through the Panama Canal . Guests can also take advantage of the “More Moments on Us” promotion which offers up to $2,200 in ship credit per suite that can be applied to a variety of activities include shore excursions, spa services, and Wi-Fi packages. (The promotions must be used separately.)

Enjoy all-inclusive amenities on a yacht-style Windstar cruise for $89 per day

Windstar Cruises’ all-inclusive fares allow guests to upgrade to a luxury ocean experience for only $89 more per day per guest, if booked by June 30 and more than five days before departure. This means you’ll get Wi-Fi access plus unlimited alcoholic beverages with gratuities included. Windstar’s yacht-style cruises tour a variety of areas , from the Mediterranean and northern Europe to Tahiti and Central America.

Sail the seas with nearly half off Hurtigruten Expeditions cruises

It’s still wave season and you can expect deals on all of your favorite cruises to destinations around the world. For those that book their next Hurtigruten Expeditions trip between now and June 30, savings of up to 45 percent are in your future. You can expect to see these huge discounts on 2024 and 2025 expeditions to Antarctica , Alaska , Greenland , the Galapagos Islands , and plenty more.

If you miss the cutoff for the 45 percent offer, there’s hope for you yet. With some extra planning, travelers can still slash 40 percent off 2025-2026 cruises , and for a limited time, solo travelers can join select cruise itineraries without paying the single supplement fee .

A Cruise Croatia ship sailing the gorgeous Dalmatian Coast

Cruise Croatia is offering 20 percent off for active and retired military in honor of Memorial Day

If you’ve seen the photos of Dubrovnik and Split, you know that a visit to the Dalmatian Coast deserves to be on everyone’s bucket list. With Cruise Croatia ’s current deal, active and retired military members can get 20 percent off on select departures this summer when they book between May 24–28. Those who aren’t military can still save when booking early for cruises departing in May 2025—expect to receive $80 of bar credit per cabin as well as a complimentary traditional village dinner on the Island of Korcula. You can also see savings of up to 40 percent off on last minute voyages .

See Greece in a new light with big savings on trips from Celestyal Cruises

For wave season this year, Celestyal Cruises is taking you on the trip of a lifetime to Greece. A seven-night Greece and Greek Island cruise is going for as low as $679 per person right now, and you’ll find other Greek cruise fares for as low as $279 per person. Your wallet will certainly thank you for taking advantage of Celestyal’s promotions.

Solo travelers get a room to themselves for cheap with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Traveling alone is a freeing experience, but can come at a steep price if you wind up paying double to secure a room to yourself. Fortunately, solo travelers can now book two-person rooms on select Uniworld river cruises for the price of just one guest, aiming to break down the financial barriers that often deter independent explorers from planning their dream getaway. Current itineraries eligible for the discounted rate last anywhere from 8 to 16 days and span all over Europe— Paris , Amsterdam , Venice , Lisbon —they’re all yours to see.

Holland America Line cruise

Take your family on a Disney cruise with a 25-percent-off special

Family-friendly Disney Cruise Line is offering between 20 and 25 percent savings on select cruises from ports like Civitavecchia, Italy; Barcelona, Spain ; Galveston, Texas; and Port Canaveral, Florida. The cruises on offer include routes all across the globe, on a variety of ships.

Even more travel deals

Earn one free day when you rent an electric vehicle through hertz.

Hertz is rewarding customers for conserving energy this spring, offering one free day for any electric vehicle bookings lasting three or more days. EV reservations that begin on or before June 1 are eligible for the promotion, which requires the code 211326 at checkout. Book at least 24 hours in advance to qualify.

Get 20 percent off all-inclusive resorts at Priceline when you bundle hotels and flights

Summer is in full swing for Priceline. See savings of 20 percent off or more for guests who bundle hotels and flights when booking top all-inclusive resorts. You can also save 20 percent off or more on trending city hotels, 40 percent off of Florida hotels with express deals, and up to 40 percent off theme park destinations when you bundle hotels and flights. From now through May 27, guests will also enjoy up to 10 percent off in extra savings when they use the code SUMMER10.

London home on onefinestay

Head to London with onefinestay and get a $635 voucher for your next trip

Book a two-bedroom home with vacation rental platform, onefinestay, by May 31 to get a $635 voucher that can be applied to your next stay with the company. The offer is only available to travelers who book two-bedrooms in London, and must be redeemed by the end of 2024.

Get up to 25 percent off a car rental—and a free upgrade—when you pay ahead

Avis and Budget’s spring sales mean drivers can get rewarded for paying up front when they book a car rental. The deal applies at the sister brands’ participating locations between now and the end of the year; travelers will get 25 percent off the time and mileage charges on their bill, and a free upgrade. To redeem, mention the coupon codes on the deals page and watch the perks pour in.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

How to spend a day in Valletta, Malta's baroque, harbourside city

Plan the perfect day in the Maltese capital, from breakfast pastries to a waterfront dinner.

Built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, Valletta retains much of its time-worn charm, with narrow streets leading between honey-coloured buildings, and glimpses of the Mediterranean never far from view. It’s a small place – just 0.3 square miles – so all of its attractions are within easy walking distance. Here’s how to make the most of it.

8am: Breakfast at Caffe Cordina

Opened in 1837, this elegant cafe in the heart of the city centre not only serves up traditional Maltese pastizzi   (savoury pastries stuffed with ricotta or peas and beef) and round qassatat   pies, often filled with peas, but also a sublime atmosphere. Expect marbled floors, gold-lined ceilings and elegant chandeliers to backdrop your coffee and cake consumption. If you’re chomping at the bit to get exploring, they also sell some treats to take away.

10am: Explore Casa Rocca Piccola

If you visit one museum in Valletta, make it this 16th-century palace — the family home of the ninth Marquis de Piro. A glorious timewarp showcasing artistic treasures both Maltese-made and imported, the series of treasure-cluttered rooms contain everything from a portable altar hidden in a bureau to possibly the last surviving set of medical instruments from the Knights of St John. There are underground tunnels used for shelter during Second World War bombings, too. Tours run every hour and last about 45 minutes.

11am: Water taxi to the Three Cities

Get a prime view of Valletta’s skyline and a nautical adventure at the same time by hopping aboard a dgħajsa   (traditional water taxi) to the historic towns known as the Three Cities, just across the Grand Harbour. Trips departing from water level below the Upper Barrakka Gardens cost just a few euros per person and only take around 15 minutes each way. Alternatively, ask your skipper to give you a personalised boat tour of the harbour.

1pm: Lunch at Café Jubilee

Filled with quirky art pieces — including vintage posters and inverted milk jugs repurposed into pendant lights — this homely family-owned restaurant in the historic core of Valletta specialises in the cuisine of Malta’s neighbouring island, Gozo. Tuck into dishes such as sheep’s cheese ravioli with tomato and basil sauce, rabbit stew with orange, spices and red wine, and baked marrow stuffed with beef. Wash everything down with the local Cisk lager or Maltese craft beers such as Blue Lagoon Witbier.

3pm: Tour the Teatru Manoel

Opened in 1732 by António Manoel de Vilhena, a Grand Master of the Knights of St John, Teatru Manoel is a spectacular example of a surviving baroque theatre. Twice-daily tours, which run at 11am and 3pm on weekdays, cost €5 (£4) and will take you from the stalls up into the wooden boxes where the people-watching opportunities are often as thrilling as what’s shown on stage.

4pm: Valletta Design Cluster

Set on a quiet side street in a building that was once used as a slaughterhouse, the Valletta Design Cluster doesn’t look like much from the outside — but step into the lobby and take the lift to the top floor, and you’ll be welcomed by a verdant surprise. The leafy rooftop garden with seating, tables and a pond provides an elevated perspective of the surrounding city rooftops, and is the perfect outdoor place to sit and relax for an hour among trees, shrubs and fragrant lavender blooms.

5pm: Aperitifs at Kamy Cocktail Bar

Wander around Valletta’s historic centre in the waning light, then pop into this popular cocktail bar. Mixologist Iliyan Iliev combines creative flavours with artistic prowess; try the clarified negroni. Paintings and photographs line the walls and each cocktail comes topped with a recognisable (and drinkable) masterpiece floating on its surface — for example, Munch’s The Scream or Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus.

8pm: Dinner at The Harbour Club

On the south Valletta waterfront facing out to Fort St Angelo and the Three Cities, this elegant dining favourite in an 18th-century building provides impressive views over the Grand Harbour. The menu is inspired by the streets of Valletta, with dishes like Strait Street, starring local pork loin with celeriac and pork gratin, and Old Theatre Street, featuring crab tart and marie rose sauce. Rather unusually in meat-loving Malta, there’s also a seven-course vegan tasting menu.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• CITY GUIDES
• SHORT TRIPS
• CULTURAL TOURISM

You May Also Like

A guide to Valletta, the Maltese capital with an eye for art and entertainment

How to spend a day in Liverpool

How to spend a day tram-hopping to Edinburgh's lively port district of Leith

How to spend a day exploring Berlin's art and design scene

20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024

• Environment
• Paid Content
• Photography
• Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved