8 Best Croatian Islands to Visit in 2025
Last Updated on March 28, 2025
From the lavender-scented hills of Hvar to the serene beaches of Vis, Croatia is dotted with thousands of islands that are incredibly pristine and spectacular. Here are the best Croatian islands to visit.
Croatia is a land of sapphire waters, medieval towns, and thousands of islands (1,244 to be exact). Some islands are lush with dense holm oak and Aleppo pines, while others appear stark and windswept with their rocky surfaces broken only by pebbly inlets. The turquoise Adriatic contrasts beautifully with these varied landscapes, creating a masterpiece to welcome you to this lovely country. Despite only 50 Croatian islands being inhabited, you’re still spoilt for choice in regards to where to go.
Alberto and I went sailing in Croatia a few years ago and I was blown away by the pristine nature and rich history on each of the islands we visited. I love how each island has its own character, from the Venetian elegance of Korčula and Hvar to the untouched serenity of Dugi Otok. Based on my experience island hopping around Croatia, I have curated a list of the best Croatian islands to help you plan your adventure.
Table of Contents
- Best Croatian Islands to Visit in 2025
- 1. Krk: Most Diverse Croatian Island
- 2. Brač: Perfect for Watersports
- 3. Hvar: Most Trendy Croatian Island
- 4. Vis: For Authentic Croatian Cuisine
- 5. Korčula: Best Croatian Wine Destination
- 6. Mljet: Breathtaking Outdoors
- 7. Kornati Archipelago: Sailing Adventures
- 8. Dugi Otok: Most Offbeat Croatian Island
- Planning Your Croatia Trip
Map of Croatian Islands
Croatia boasts an impressive 1,244 islands scattered along its stunning Adriatic coastline, yet only 50 of them are inhabited. Most of these can be reached by taking a ferry ride from Split or Dubrovnik. Based on our travels across the region, we have picked out the best 8 islands we think are worth visiting. Here’s a look at them on a map.
How to use this map: Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. To open a larger version in a new tab, click on the top right corner of the map. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps.
Best Croatian Islands to Visit in 2025
1. Krk: Most Diverse Croatian Island
Krk, the largest and northernmost Croatian island, offers a captivating mix of history, nature, and gastronomy. Connected to the mainland by a striking bridge, this Croatian gem lures you with its Romanesque churches, fortified monasteries, and scenic fishing villages.
Adventurers can descend into the fascinating depths of Biserujka Cave, while wine enthusiasts will enjoy sampling the crisp Žlahtina white wine in Vrbnik’s hillside vineyards. The island’s culinary scene is just as enticing. Here, foodies can savor handmade šurlice pasta and succulent Kvarner shrimps at countless taverns.
For a true taste of the island, stop by the family-run Utla near Malinska to sample their exquisite extra-virgin olive oils. These are pressed from native Plominka olives. History buffs will have a field day at Francopan Castle. Meanwhile, Baška’s inviting beaches offer the perfect spot for an afternoon swim.
How to Get to Krk
Depending on where you’re coming from, reaching Krk requires a bit of planning. If you’re coming from Dubrovnik or Split, you’ll drive or take the bus as there are no direct flights or ferries connecting the island. The fastest and most flexible way to get there is by driving. You’ll take the highway towards Rijeka before crossing the Krk Bridge, which links the island to the mainland.
Alternatively, you can opt for a bus. It is a more budget-friendly choice but comes with significant travel time—about 11 hours from Dubrovnik and around 8 hours from Split. A bus ticket from Split to Krk costs between $11 and $15 depending on the operator and season.
If you’re coming from Europe, it’s much easier to access the island via Rijeka Airport. Many airlines have established a strong presence at Rijeka Airport. For instance, flights from London go for as little as $475 and typically take around six hours. After you land in Rijeka, you can take a 30-minute taxi to the island. Search for flights to Rijeka here!
How to Get Around Krk
By Car Rental
The best way to explore the stunning Krk Island is by car. Its compact size means you can easily traverse the island in just 30 to 45 minutes. This also allows you to visit its charming towns, including Krk, Malinska, Omišalj, Dobrinj, Vrbnik, and Baška at your own pace.
On our trip here, we began by renting a car in Rijeka and then driving to the island. It’s worth noting that most cities on the island have public parking, though it comes with a small fee of about $1. For car rentals, we always use Discover Cars, as they consistently offer the best rates and customer service, with rentals typically starting from as low as $11 per day. Search for car rentals in Rijeka here!
By Taxi
Getting around Krk by taxi is another convenient option, with fares typically ranging from $21 to $32 for short trips within the main town area. Prices depend on the distance traveled and any waiting time. Most taxi companies here calculate fares using a base fare plus a per-kilometer charge.
For reliable service, you can book a ride through Taxi-Krk.com, which is one of the best taxi providers on the island. Another popular option is Golden Krk Taxi, based in Dobrinj. Please note that some taxi companies may charge a surcharge for rides taken late at night, so inquire about any additional fees when booking.
By Bus
Krk is well-served by a network of affordable buses that travel between the island’s towns and key attractions. There are several buses that link between cities on the island daily, with routes passing through Omišalj, Njivice, Malinska, and Baška. The bus station in Krk is located in the center of town, just a short walk from the waterfront.
You can purchase tickets at the bus station’s ticket office or directly on board. Prices for bus tickets between cities on Krk generally range from $5–$10, depending on the route and the company. You can buy tickets and see bus timetables here.
Where to Eat in Krk
Where to Stay in Krk
2. Brač: Perfect for Watersports
The Croatian island of Brač is home to the stunning Zlatni Rat beach in Bol, one of the country’s prime windsurfing spots. Brač attracts thrill-seekers with opportunities for windsurfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The latter is an absolute must-try at Sutivan on the island’s north coast.
For those looking to cover every inch of the island, there are several hiking and cycling trails. The hike up to Vidova Gora is the most subscribed, particularly in Spring (March to May). It leads to the highest point among Croatia’s islands (at 780 meters), rewarding trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding region.
The inlands are dotted with sheep farms, where you can savor traditional cuisine like a lamb feast, typically served at most farm restaurants in Dol. Brač’s legacy in sculpture is also worth exploring. The island has produced many talented stonemasons, and a visit to the Stonemasonry School in Pušišća offers an insightful look into the craft.
How to Get to Brač
To reach Brač, you’ll fly into Split or Makarska in central Dalmatia. From here, you can catch a ferry to the island. Split is the most common entry point, and the closest airport to Brač, served by countless connecting and direct flights from Europe. For instance, flights from Paris typically start around $315 with a layover in Zagreb. Search for flights to Split here!
Once in Split, it’s a short 30-minute journey—either by bus, taxi, or car rental—to the ferry terminal. The ferry from Split to Brač takes around 50 minutes, with departures every 90 minutes during the summer months. A one-way ticket for a car and four passengers is about $43.
Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Makarska to Sumartin on Brač. However, the service is limited to five crossings per day during peak season, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.
How to Get Around Brač
By Bus
Buses are the only form of public transportation on Brač, making them the most budget-friendly way to explore the island. Typically, a one-way ticket from Supetar to Bol costs about $5.40. However, while affordable, the bus service has its drawbacks. Most of the island’s top attractions like Zlatni Rat beach, Vidova Gora, and Blaca Monastery, are located far away from major bus stops.
Getting to these sites often requires additional transportation or a long walk. Also, the bus schedule can be restrictive. There are no night buses, and finding a ride after 7:00 p.m. can be a challenge. Outside the peak season (July and August) bus frequency drops significantly, further limiting options for budget travelers.
By Taxi
Taxis are a convenient way to navigate Brač. You’ll find taxis readily available in major tourist areas, making it easy to get around without the hassle of driving or locating the bus. Many drivers are locals with valuable insights about the island, which can also enhance your travel experience.
However, this convenience comes at a premium—taxis are the most expensive mode of transportation on Brač. For instance, a one-way trip from Supetar to Bol costs over $55, so it’s wise to confirm the fare with the driver before setting off.
By Car Rental
Renting a car is a great way to explore Brač, giving you the freedom to visit beaches and charming villages at your own pace. While car rentals are readily available on the island, they tend to be on the expensive side. These typically start from around $65 per day. A more budget-friendly option is to rent a car in Split then ferry it to Brač, if you plan on spending longer than a day.
Car rentals in Split are significantly lower (around $10–$20 per day in the summer) and about $4 in the off-season. The car ferry from Split to Supetar costs around $25–$30 for a standard vehicle and runs frequently. For car rentals, we always use Discover Cars, as they consistently offer the best rates and customer service. Search for car rentals in Split here!
Where to Eat in Brač
Where to Stay in Brač
- Villa Mira Bol Apartments & Rooms
- Puteus Palace heritage hotel
- Hotel Lemongarden
- Gava Waterman Island Cottages
3. Hvar: Most Trendy Croatian Island
Located off the Dalmatian coast, Hvar is the most fashionable Croatian island. It is centered around the bustling Hvar Town, which stretches along a picturesque, sheltered harbor teeming with yachts. The town’s vibrant heart is its expansive piazza, home to a striking Baroque cathedral that adds to the charm.
Ensure to stroll along the palm-lined promenade that hugs the coastline, making your way up to the hilltop fortress for stunning views of the landscape. For foodies, the town’s cobbled alleys invite you to indulge its rustic-chic seafood restaurants serving indulgent lobster, champagne, and even lavender ice cream.
You’ll also find lively cocktail bars and boutiques offering handmade jewelry and exclusive designer swimwear. Further inland, the peaceful countryside is blanketed in fragrant lavender fields and sprawling vineyards. For wine enthusiasts, we recommend you visit the Tomić winery in Jelsa. Here, you can sample local wines made from indigenous grape varieties like Bogdanuša, Pošip, and Plavac Mali.
How to Get to Hvar
Getting to Hvar is easy, thanks to the extensive ferry network connecting the island with mainland Croatia and other nearby islands. Hvar can be reached from three major ports on the Croatian mainland: Split, Dubrovnik, and Drvenik. The island is served by four harbors, two of which accommodate car ferries.
The main car ferry terminal is located near Stari Grad, just a short 20-minute drive from Hvar Town. Ferries operate regularly year-round from Split, with up to 20 daily departures during the summer. Prices for the Split-Hvar ferry range from around $6 to $21, with the crossing taking about one hour. The Sućuraj harbor, on the eastern tip of Hvar, links to Drvenik. 30-minute ferries move either way every day. The Dubrovnik-Hvar route is seasonal and takes around 3.5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $41 to $48.
Alternatively, you can explore the island like we did—by yacht. We took this yacht charter in Croatia and it was a beautiful experience. It’s how we basically hopped between most of the Croatian islands—quite an insightful journey.
How to Get Around Hvar
By Bus
Exploring Hvar by bus is a convenient and affordable option. The island’s bus services link all four municipalities of Hvar. Buses are timed to match the arrival and departure of ferries at Stari Grad Harbour.
There are around seven daily buses connecting Hvar Town to Stari Grad Harbour (about a 30-minute ride). Bus prices in and around the island are fairly priced. For instance, the 3 km journey to Stari Grad Town from the harbour costs about $1.50.
Other common bus routes include Hvar to Jelsa ($6), Hvar to Vrboska ($5), Hvar to Sucuraj ($11), and Hvar to Milna ($3). Children aged 0-6 travel for free. During the summer months, bus frequency increases, ensuring that getting around is both easy and affordable.
By Taxi
Taking a taxi in Hvar is generally a convenient way to get around the island. Taxis are easily identifiable with a prominent “TAXI” sign on the vehicle. They also usually display the name and contact details of the company or individual operating the service.
The cost of a taxi ride typically runs about $0.73 per kilometer, though the fare varies depending on the distance covered. Please be sure to confirm the rates before getting in, as these tend to fluctuate across the year.
By Car Rental
Driving in Hvar is a generally smooth experience but it’s worth noting that many of the island’s roads are narrow and some lack protective barriers. Renting a car in nearby cities like Split is the best option, as the car rental services here charge a premium. Once you have your car, you’ll need to take it on a ferry to Hvar.
Once on the island, driving gives you the flexibility to explore Hvar’s charming villages, beaches, and scenic viewpoints at your own pace. For car rentals, we always use Discover Cars, as they consistently offer the best rates and customer service, with rentals typically starting from as low as $4 per day. Search for car rentals in Split here!
Where to Eat in Hvar
Where to Stay in Hvar
4. Vis: For Authentic Croatian Cuisine
Vis is the most remote of Croatia’s inhabited islands and has long held an air of mystery. Its distance from the mainland, combined with decades of isolation as a Yugoslav military base, left it untouched by mass tourism. This seclusion also led many locals to seek work elsewhere, leaving the island sparsely populated for years.
Rising from the shimmering Adriatic, Vis now attracts a select crowd—primarily yachters who dock in Vis Town to indulge in the island’s culinary treasures. It is the best Croatian island to indulge in seafood, particularly octopus slow-cooked under a peka (a traditional metal lid buried under hot embers). Vis remains a haven of authenticity, where small agrotourism restaurants serve organic, locally sourced ingredients, offering globetrotters a taste of Croatia as it once was.
How to Get to Vis
Since Vis doesn’t have an airport, the only way to reach the island is by ferry from the mainland. If you’re traveling from Europe, the best option is to fly to Split Airport, which is the closest major airport to Vis. From there, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the ferry terminal, where you’ll find two main options for crossing to the island.
The larger Jadrolinija ferry, which takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, costs around $10 for foot passengers. This ferry offers both indoor and outdoor seating, air conditioning, and a snack bar where you can grab chips, beer, and other light refreshments. Tickets can be purchased at the port, though if you’re visiting during the busy summer months, booking ahead online is a smart move.
The catamaran service gets you to Vis in about 1 hour and 20 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the number of stops that day. However, this option costs roughly $33 and only has indoor seating. Both options will take you to the Port of Vis on the eastern part of the island.
How to Get Around Vis
By Bus
Getting around Vis by bus is simple and convenient. The main bus stop is located near the ferry pier, right in front of the wharf where the ferry docks. From there, buses run to Komiža, a charming fishing town on the island’s western coast. Tickets are valid for a single trip and can be purchased directly on the bus. Fares start at around $2.90, depending on the destination.
By Scooter
Exploring Vis by scooter is a fantastic way to take in the island’s stunning landscapes at your own pace. Given its small size, you can traverse from one end to the other in just about 20 minutes. Whether you’re heading to Stiniva Beach, the Blue Cave, or simply enjoying the ride, a scooter is an effortless and enjoyable way to experience Vis.
Rentals typically cost around $55 per day, and some providers even include fuel in the price. If you’re in Komiža, you can check out Rent a Scooter Komiza for rental options.
By Boat Charter
Chartering a boat is the best way to see the island’s hidden regions, from secluded coves to pristine beaches tucked away from the crowds. While Vis is relatively small, many of its most stunning spots are only accessible by water which makes a boat rental the ideal choice.
We opted for a yacht charter in Croatia, and the experience was nothing short of spectacular. Our journey took us on a cruise along the rugged coastline, discovering crystal-clear bays, and taking in breathtaking views of Vis from the open sea.
Where to Eat in Vis
Where to Stay in Vis
5. Korčula: Best Croatian Wine Destination
Korčula blends natural beauty with rich cultural traditions, offering an experience that feels both authentic and exclusive. While it’s well known, Korčula remains less crowded than some of its more tourist-heavy counterparts like Hvar. The star of the island is Korčula Town, a mesmerizing medieval city perched on a tiny peninsula.
It bustles with history thanks to its well-preserved stone stairways, grand palaces, and a striking Gothic-Renaissance cathedral. The town’s skyline, seen from the sea, is one of the most beautiful scenery. The nightlife here is one of its strong selling points. During our trip, we were lucky enough to witness the dramatic moreška sword dance.
Originating from Spain, the dance depicts two kings who are in conflict over a woman. For foodies, head to the rolling hills blanketed with pine forests, olive groves, and vineyards for a taste of Croatian cuisine. Here, rustic agrotourism restaurants serve up delicious island specialties, crafted from locally grown ingredients.
Often called the “wine island,” Korčula produces unique varietals like Grk and Pošip—wines that you won’t find anywhere else. To savor the island’s famous Pošip wine, we recommend the family-run Toreta Winery in Smokvica. Besides exceptional wines, you’ll also get a true taste of Korčula’s exceptional winemaking heritage here.
How to Get to Korčula
Korčula does not have its own airport, so you’ll fly to either Split or Dubrovnik and then continue your journey by ferry. If you plan on driving on the island, the most convenient route is via Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula. It’s where the only car ferry departs to Port of Domince in Korčula.
The Orebić-Domince car ferry operates year-round, with up to 18 crossings per day. The ferry charges around $11 per car. For those traveling without a car, there are countless passenger-only ferries from Dubrovnik that dock at the island’s main port in Korčula town. These charge around $2–$3 per head.
The Dubrovnik-Korčula ferries are available for most of the year and take around two hours in travel time. If you’re coming from Split, there are also several passenger ferries that do up to five daily crossings. Fares on these start at around $9, depending on the season.
How to Get Around Korčula
By Bus
Korčula boasts a dependable public bus network that links its main towns and villages, making it an affordable option for exploring the island. Buses typically run between Korčula Town and Lumbarda, with stops in Žrnovo, Pupnat, Čara, Smokvica, and Blato along the way. Tickets can be purchased either directly from the driver or at bus stations in Korčula and Blato.
The standard fare from Korčula to Lumbarda is around $2.60, with return tickets priced similarly. Though it’s worth noting that fares can fluctuate depending on the route and time of the year. Check the bus schedule here.
By Bicycle
Korčula is best seen on two wheels. It is a fantastic way to soak in the island’s fresh air and unspoiled landscapes while enjoying an active adventure. With a variety of well-marked cycling routes catering to different fitness levels, both casual riders and experienced cyclists will enjoy the experience.
The island’s winding, hilly roads weave through diverse scenery, from the picturesque surroundings of Vela Luka to the rolling countryside beyond. However, you should remain cautious, especially in the summer when the island experiences more traffic. Stay alert at all times and slow down in corners.
Mountain bikes and e-bikes are available for rent from most travel agencies and some hotels at reasonable prices. Rentals typically range from $27 to $305 depending on the type of bike and rental duration. Check out Kaleta for bike rental options.
By Car Rental
Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Korčula, especially if you want to venture beyond the town and visit more remote beaches like Pupnatska Luka. The island’s roads are well-maintained, but they can be narrower and more winding than what some drivers might be used to.
Parking can also be a challenge in summer but if it helps, there’s a free park-and-ride lot near the cemetery in Korčula Town. Like on other Croatian islands, rentals on Korčula tend to be pricey. In Korčula, basic cars go for around $60 per day, though rates drop for longer rentals.
In contrast, car rentals in Split start as low as $4 per day in the off-season. If you plan to stay longer than a day, it’s better to rent one in Split and ferry it to the island. For car rentals, we always use Discover Cars, as they consistently offer the best rates and customer service. Search for car rentals in Korčula here!
Where to Eat in Korčula
Where to Stay in Korčula
- Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel
- ECO Aparthotel The Dreamers’s Club
- Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess
- Tara’s Lodge
6. Mljet: Breathtaking Outdoors
Located on Dalmatia’s most southerly isle, Mljet is one of the most underrated Croatian islands. The island is cloaked in dense Aleppo pine and holm oak forests, making it one of the Adriatic’s most alluring. But just how beautiful is Mljet? According to Greek mythology, Mljet enchanted Odysseus for seven years.
It’s also recognized by the World Wide Fund for Nature as one of the Mediterranean’s last paradises. The island’s northern third is dominated by Mljet National Park, home to two mesmerizing saltwater lakes encircled by thick woodland. Adventurers can hike up Montokuc for sweeping views of pine-covered slopes meeting the shimmering Adriatic.
Alternatively, you can cycle around Veliko Jezero (Big Lake). At its center, a tiny islet rises from the water, crowned with a 12th-century Benedictine monastery, a timeless attraction accessible only by boat. While there, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in authentic Dalmatian cuisine at the island’s charming restaurant.
On Mljet, you’ll also stumble upon picturesque villages like Govedari, Pomena, and Soline, each dotted with cozy cafes and relaxed waterfront spots. History buffs will enjoy visiting Polače, Mljet’s oldest settlement, home to an impressive Roman palace right on the waterfront. For the perfect photo-op, head to Odysseus Cave, one of the island’s most famous natural wonders.
How to Get to Mljet
There is no airport on Mljet so you’ll fly to either Dubrovnik or Split airport and from there take a ferry to Mljet. The Split-to-Mljet ferry operates three times daily during the summer months and docks at Pomena port on the island. The travel time is around 3 hours, and tickets typically cost around $27.
If you’re coming from Dubrovnik, there are several ferries that leave for the island every day. These dock at all three ports on the island (Pomena, Polače and Sobra), with tickets going for around $8. In summer, there are up to three daily departures from Dubrovnik to Pomena.
How to Get Around Mljet
By Bus
The bus is the only public means to get around the island. Two main bus routes connect different parts of the island, both starting and ending in Sobra. One route runs westward to Pomena, passing through Polače and Goveđari, while the other heads east to Saplunara via Prožura and Korita.
Currently, only two buses operate daily across the island. However, schedules may vary depending on the season, so it’s best to confirm the latest timetable upon arrival. A one-way ticket from Sobra to Polače costs around $6.50–$8.50.
By Bicycle
Exploring Mljet by bicycle is an exhilarating experience for those eager for the scenic outdoors. Stretching about 27 miles (43 km) from end to end, the island’s rugged terrain offers stunning panoramic views and a rewarding workout. However, if visiting in July or August, it’s best to set off at sunrise and wrap up your ride before 9 a.m. to avoid the sweltering midday heat.
The island’s main road doesn’t have dedicated bike lanes but it’s relatively quiet outside peak season, making for a more relaxed journey. For an easier and more picturesque ride, head to the National Park area, where car-free trails provide a peaceful and safe environment for biking.
Bike rentals in Mljet charge between $37 to $181 depending on the bike type and rental duration. If you need a rental, Aloha Mljet offers a range of options.
By Car Rental
Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the island, allowing you to see the villages and national park on your terms. There’s only one main road that runs through or near most towns, and while it is paved, you’ll need to drive at a slow pace. It’s also worth noting that the island’s terrain is hilly with long stretches of uphill and downhill sections.
On our trip, we also noticed that Mljet has only one petrol station. It’s located at the Sobra ferry terminal, so planning fuel stops in advance is essential. If you’re planning to rent a car on the island, expect to pay around $50 per day.
However, if you’re staying for more than a day, a more budget-friendly option is to bring a rental car from Split via ferry. Car rental rates in Split are around $11 during the summer months and drop to around $4 in the off-season. For car rentals, we always use Discover Cars, as they consistently offer the best rates and customer service. Search for car rentals in Split here!
Where to Eat in Mljet
Where to Stay in Mljet
7. Kornati Archipelago: Sailing Adventures
The Kornati Islands are an archipelago of 140 uninhabited islands, islets, and reefs spread across the Adriatic Sea. This is the largest and densest island cluster in Croatia, with much of it protected within Kornati National Park. Most globetrotters arrive here by private yacht, dropping anchor in tranquil bays, some of which are home to rustic waterfront restaurants.
Days here unfold in a dreamy haze of sunbathing, snorkeling, and drifting between the endless blue of sky and sea. Since the 1970s, Kornati’s marina has been a favorite among sailing enthusiasts, cementing its reputation as a premier regatta hub in Northern Dalmatia.
Certain areas of the park remain under protection which means that access is limited without special permissions. Diving is a popular activity, though a permit must be secured in advance, same for recreational fishing. Permits can be secured at the park’s offices in Murter.
For history buffs, the Fort of Tureta and Church of Gospa od Tarca shouldn’t be missed. While here, keep an eye out for the small chapels that were constructed by sailors back in the day—they are quite immaculate.
How to Get to Kornati Archipelago
Reaching the Kornati Islands requires some planning, as there are no direct ferries from the mainland. To explore the archipelago, you’ll need a private boat. You can rent one yourself but you’ll need a permit. The permits are quite pricey, and in my opinion, not worth the trouble. As a work around, most travelers join organized day trips departing from Zadar, Šibenik, Dugi Otok, or Murter Island.
Alternatively, you can negotiate with local boat men on the mainland to get you to the archipelago. They charge anywhere between $160 and $2000 depending on the size of the boat. We did a yacht charter in Croatia to the island and it was the highlight of our time in the Croatian islands.
How to Get Around Kornati Archipelago
The Kornati Islands are very rocky and largely uninhabited. The islands are completely car-free, with no roads connecting the islands. The only way to explore the islands is by boat. Typically, the guided tour you opted for or hired local boatman should get you around the islands and you work around the cost.
Where to Eat in Kornati Archipelago
Where to Stay in Kornati Archipelago
Accommodation on the Kornati Islands is quite limited, as there are no hotels. For those looking to stay, there are private houses available for rent. These are often former fishermen’s homes that offer a rustic and authentic experience.
These homes are simple yet full of character, reflecting the islands’ history. Due to the lack of widespread lodging options, it’s worth noting that staying on the Kornati Islands comes at a premium price. Here are the available accommodation options;
8. Dugi Otok: Most Offbeat Croatian Island
Dugi Otok is the seventh-largest island in the Adriatic and one of the quieter Croatian islands. Its name means “long island,” which quite suits it because it stretches 45 kilometers in length and only 4 kilometers wide at its broadest point. Despite its striking beauty, Dugi Otok has remained largely untouched, offering rare serenity in Croatia, especially in the busy summer months.
Hilltop hamlets like Dragove seem to shimmer in the distance while the fishing villages of Sali and Božava exude a timeless charm. Southern Dugi Otok is home to the Telašćica Nature Park, where cliff-edge views reveal the untouched beauty of the Adriatic Sea.
For beach bums, the lovely Saharun beach offers soft white pebbles and shallow waters perfect for families. And for those in search of great pictures, the iconic lighthouse at Veli Rat is the place to go.
How to Get to Dugi Otok
To reach Dugi Otok, you’ll have to board a ferry from Zadar. There are three to four departures daily in the summer. The journey time depends on the ferry type: the passenger ferry takes just 45 minutes. On the other hand, the car ferry which departs from the Gaženica port takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Tickets range from $5 to $12 for a one-way trip, and you can purchase them either online or directly at the port. However, we recommend you buy the return ticket before heading for the island because ferries returning to Zadar don’t sell tickets. Ferries bound for the island dock in Sali, the island’s largest village.
How to Get Around Dugi Otok
By Bus
Exploring Dugi Otok by bus can be a bit of a challenge due to the island’s limited service. There is a bus line that connects Božava on the western side of the island to Brbinj. Another bus line serves the eastern part of the island, linking various locations to the municipal center of Sali. Tickets are available for purchase in cash directly from the bus driver.
For instance, a one-way ticket from Sali to either Zaglav or Bršanj costs anywhere from $4.10 to $6.90, depending on the season. A shorter trip from Zaglav port to Sali costs around $1.50. The bus schedule is closely tied to the ferry timetable, so plan your travel accordingly if you’re to use these means.
By Car Rental
Renting a car and driving across the island is one of the most therapeutic experiences. The island’s narrow, winding roads take you through its rural landscapes, providing sweeping views of the Adriatic coastline. You’ll also encounter stretches of coastal cliffs that create a stunning backdrop as you navigate the terrain.
While the drive is typically relaxed, prepare for some challenges. During the peak season, there’s potential for heavy traffic which can be frustrating at times. Also, in popular areas like Sakarun Beach, parking can be a challenge.
Car rental prices on Dugi Otok generally range from $38 to $75. If you’re staying overnight, it’s much cheaper to rent a car in Zadar and ferry it to the island. For car rentals, we always use Discover Cars, as they consistently offer the best rates and customer service, with rentals typically starting from as low as $7 per day. Search for car rentals in Zadar here!
Where to Eat in Dugi Otok
Where to Stay in Dugi Otok
Planning Your Croatia Trip
My time sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic was amazing and I can’t wait to return. I hope our list of the best Croatian islands is helpful as you explore this beautiful country.
Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. We’ll be happy to help in any way we can! Here are my other articles related to Croatia and other parts of Europe:
- Sailing in Croatia
- Croatia Island Hopping Guide
- Plitvice Lakes in Croatia
- Best Yachting Destinations in Europe
- Slovenia Road Trip Guide
- Best Summer Destinations in Europe
- Bulgaria Travel Guide
- Most Beautiful Places in Europe to Visit
- Best Winter Destinations in Europe
- Best Greek Islands to Visit
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.
Inspired? Pin It!
