Cruising the Croatian islands has change into an iconic vacation exercise. Think about crusing by way of the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea as you seek for a secluded cove. Croatia has greater than 1,000 islands spanning from north to south, so regardless of the place you end up, you’ll be capable to e book a day journey out to see one. Even in the event you aren’t aboard a luxurious yacht, lots of the greatest islands in Croatia will be reached by public ferry and even on a sea kayak. We are able to attest, kayaking across the islands of Croatia is a visit of a lifetime.
The Greatest Islands to Go to in Croatia
Croatia could have loads of islands however solely 47 truly are inhabited. And of these 47 inhabited islands, solely 15 islands have a inhabitants of greater than 1000 folks. So if you go to the islands of Croatia, likelihood is you’ll have all of them to yourselves.
Dubrovnik could also be calling your title, however when you’ve explored the favored Game of Thrones Locations, it’s time to get out on the crystal clear waters to get pleasure from these greatest islands in Croatia.
1. Kornati Islands
The Kornati Islands are an archipelago of 140 islands and islets sitting off the Dalmatian Coast. Throughout the largest Archipelago within the Adriatic Sea is Kornati Nationwide Park which pulls guests to discover its pristine Croatian islands and underwater playground. The abundance of reefs and shallow, heat waters make it good for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Issues to do
Go snorkeling or scuba diving – Most boat excursions to the Kornati Islands supply a snorkeling choice. The islands are mentioned to be dwelling to almost 200 species of fish. You’ll be able to even spot dolphins in case you are fortunate.
This full-day tour takes you alongside the Sibenik channel previous historic army websites and well-known landmarks till you attain Kornati Nationwide Park. You’ll have the chance to go snorkeling, swimming, and even cliff diving from its steep rock faces. See more details here.
Go to the Fortress of Tureta – The Fortress of Tureta dates again to the Byzantine interval and sits – remoted and decrepit – on the island of Kornat. Historical past lovers will get pleasure from touring the historic website, and its dramatic, distant cliff-top location provides to the attraction’s attract.
Find out how to get there
The easiest way to succeed in the Kornati Islands is by day journey, particularly as most are uninhabited islands. Yow will discover boat excursions from Zadar, Sibenik, or Murter – any of the main vacationer spots alongside the Dalmatian Coast.
2. Elaphiti Islands
The Elaphiti Islands are the preferred Croatian islands to go to as they sit simply off Dubrovnik on the Croatian mainland. Dubrovnik attracts in thousands and thousands of vacationers due to its wealth of things to do and Game of Thrones stardom, and many individuals are tempted into ‘particular island hopping itinerary’ boat journeys from Dubrovnik Outdated City harbor.
The Elaphiti Islands embrace three major islands: Sipan, Kolocep, and Lopud. The whole inhabitants of all three islands is round 1,000 folks, and most residential areas are sleepy fishing villages. Visiting the Elaphitis is a superb alternative for these staying in Dubrovnik and wanting a laidback, handy island getaway.
Issues to do
Swim within the Blue Cave and Inexperienced Cave – The Elaphiti Islands have particular caves the place the sunshine displays completely to create brightly coloured water. The Blue Cave is among the most well-known stops on the island of Biševo. Solar displays off the white backside of the blue cave bouncing off the limestone partitions creating a surprising scene. The equally lovely inexperienced cave presents snorkeling or swimming on Sipan island.
Kayak across the islands -Lease a sea kayak and discover the islands from the ocean. By sea kayaking, you’ll be capable to entry sheltered coves and hidden sandy seashores and admire the distinctive pure landscapes from a novel perspective.
This boat tour from Dubrovnik takes you to Kolocep, Lopud, and Šipan the place you’ll cease and swim and revel in lunch and limitless drinks. Now that appears like a superb time.
Find out how to get there
You’ll be able to attain The Elaphitis simply by public ferry, which is ideal if you wish to keep just a few days. In any other case, you’ll be able to manage a day journey from Dubrovnik Old Town.
3. Brac
Chances are high that you just’ve already heard of Brac when looking for the most effective islands in Croatia. Brac is positioned within the Adriatic Sea, simply off the coast of Break up, and it is among the hottest islands for a day journey. Brac is thought for its larger-than-life persona and has a little bit of all the pieces – from music occasions to a historic previous city and Golden Cape seaside, which is famed for windsurfing. Brac is action-packed but genuine (an admirable trait) and a very good contender for island hopping.
Issues to do
Golden Cape Seashore – Golden Cape Seashore (or Golden Horn Seashore) is a great spot for watersports and probably the most lovely seashores in Croatia. The long-lasting seaside is formed like a horn, jutting out in a triangle form.
Blaca Hermitage – Blaca Hermitage is a Sixteenth-century monastery constructed dramatically right into a cliff face. You’ll be able to hike as much as the monastery and go to the museum for extra info on its historical past.
Find out how to get there
Attending to Brac is a breeze, and you may hop on a ferry straight from Break up. The experience takes simply 50 minutes, and even in off-season, it runs over sixty instances every week.
4. Hvar Island
Hvar is among the greatest islands in Croatia if you’d like a summer season resort ambiance. Positive, the island has its historic sights. Hvar City has Thirteenth-century partitions and loads of historic buildings. Nonetheless, it’s most well-known for its golf equipment, pubs, bars, and seaside events. If you’d like someplace to let your hair down, Hvar is a incredible alternative.
Issues to do
Fortica Fortress – This Sixteenth-century fortress is among the most scenic spots in Hvar. You’ll be able to hike to the highest of its hill to discover the ruins and revel in beautiful views over the city, island, and ocean beneath.
Social gathering at Carpe Diem – Carpe Diem is among the island’s longest-established celebration venues and was opened in 1999. The venue has DJs from 5 pm every evening and a vogue present twice every week. Carpe Diem is the place to rub shoulders with the wealthy and well-known.
Find out how to get there
The easiest way to succeed in Hvar is by getting a ferry from the mainland. You’ll be able to catch a ferry to Hvar from vital cities like Break up and Dubrovnik, and there’s even the choice to catch a global ferry from Italy.
5. Vis Island
Vis Island is among the greatest islands in Croatia if you’d like a spot with a wealthy historical past. Vis Island served as a Yugoslav army base from 1950 till 1989, and you may nonetheless go to army websites at present. It is a huge draw for these intrigued by Croatia’s political historical past. Vis City additionally has historic metropolis partitions, a public bathtub, and an archaeological museum.
Issues to do
Scuba dive underwater wrecks – Vis has many desirable wrecks, together with a airplane and a Greek cargo ship. You’ll be able to go to the island’s dive middle to arrange a diving tour.
Go to Tito’s Cave – Tito was a World Struggle II chief and had headquarters in a cave on Vis Island. Due to its location close to Italy, Vis was thought of a extremely strategic location, and now guests can tour the particular cave.
Find out how to get there
You’ll be able to take an organized tour from the mainland or take the ferry from Break up. The ferry experience takes round an hour and a half.
6. Rab Island
Rab Island is among the most historic Croatian islands. It has a surprising previous city encircled by historic metropolis partitions. If you’d like a photogenic, historic island, Rab is the one for you. It has the Cathedral Svete Marije and Sveti Ivan Church, plus Roman ruins dotted across the island. Simply if you thought it couldn’t get higher, Rab Island additionally has a number of the greatest seashores out of all Croatia’s islands.
Issues to do
Paradise Seashore – Paradise Seashore is a incredible seaside day spot, with waterslides and pedal-boat leases to maintain you entertained between sunbathing periods.
Sightsee the Outdated City – Sightseeing the completely different buildings and previous metropolis partitions is an ideal technique to spend a morning on Rab Island. You’ll be able to simply discover leisurely on foot, stopping for a espresso or brunch break when you have to.
Find out how to get there
You’ll be able to catch a ferry to Rab Island from the mainland or different close by islands. Ebook tickets on-line (particularly throughout peak seasons) to ensure a spot.
7. Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are a number of the greatest islands in Croatia for lovely sandy seashores, unimaginable snorkeling, and partying. The Paklenis are a gaggle of islets positioned simply off of Hvar, and their beautiful surroundings and enjoyable ambiance make them a well-liked day journey. Small however with huge personalities, the Pakleni Islands are incredible islands to go to in Croatia.
Issues to do
Benefit from the strolling trails – For the reason that islands are so small, you’ll be able to simply discover them on foot. Sveti Klement is the most effective island for shaded strolling trails and is scattered with pine timber and Mediterranean shrubs.
Social gathering on the Marinkovac seaside membership – Get your groove on at Marinkovac’s incredible seaside membership. The membership offers the Pakleni Islands their celebration repute and is a superb spot to let your hair down.
Find out how to get there
You’ll be able to go to the Pakleni Islands on a day journey from Hvar or the Mainland. From Hvar, it takes simply half-hour to succeed in the Paklenis.
8. Mljet Island
Mljet is a protracted Croatian island within the Adriatic Sea. This is among the greatest islands in Croatia for nature lovers and is dwelling to Mljet Nationwide Park. Mljet is roofed in a dense pine forest, vineyards, and olive groves. It’s the good island to go to to understand nature and recent, domestically sourced produce.
Issues to do
Odysseus Cave – Be sure that to go to the legendary Odysseus Cave. It is among the most lovely plces on Mljet. It may be reached by boat or you’ll be able to hike to it.
Mljet Nationwide Park – Mljet Nationwide Park presents 5,400 hectares of land and ocean reserves, defending unimaginable natural world. You’ll be able to cycle or hike across the park and pack snorkeling gear to understand its reefs and underwater sights.
Roman Palace – The Roman Palace is Mljet’s most historic attraction. The Fifth-century historic palace sits on the Polace waterfront, now cut up in half by a busy street.
Find out how to get there
The best technique to attain Mljet Island is to take the ferry from Dubrovnik. The journey takes round two and a half hours.
9. Pag Island
Pag Island is among the greatest islands in Croatia in case you are in search of a putting (barely weird) pure panorama. Other than the built-up space of Pag City, arriving at Pag shouldn’t be not like touchdown on the moon. It has a desolate moonlike panorama and sharply contrasts Croatia’s extra lush islands. You’ll discover enjoyable nightlife in Pag City, loads of strolling trails, and native produce like paski sir, which known as Pag cheese and constituted of sheep milk.
Issues to do
Social gathering on the Zrce strip – Zrce is the hub of nightlife on Pag. The beachfront is lined with bars and golf equipment, with frequent seaside events to affix.
Pattern the island’s delicacies – So, you could attempt Pag cheese. Nonetheless, Pag lamb can be a neighborhood specialty and is usually grilled and served with potatoes. These dishes are extraordinarily in style, so cease by a restaurant and verify what they serve.
Find out how to get there
Pag Island is the simplest to succeed in on this information. The island is related to the mainland by a bridge and has a automobile ferry service. You’ll be able to drive throughout the bridge or sail to Pag; the selection is yours.
10. Korcula Island
Korcula Island is thought for its dense vegetation and forest and the fantastic thing about Korcula City. Some folks even go so far as to name Korcula City ‘Little Dubrovnik’, as its smaller-scale metropolis partitions, medieval squares, and historic buildings are an image of Croatia’s well-known metropolis. The island has a whole lot of Greek historical past, and we suggest it to any historical past fans or folks in search of a well-rounded, lovely island vacation spot.
Issues to do
Go to Pupnatska Luka Seashore – Pupnatska Luka Seashore is a surprising place to go to and nice for a day journey. It’s famed for its turquoise waters and vibrant white sand.
Go to Korcula City Museum – Prepared for a little bit of historical past? This museum displays Korcula’s historical past and tradition and has a novel location in a Sixteenth-century Renaissance palace.
Find out how to get there
The easiest way to succeed in Korcula Island is to catch the ferry from Break up, which takes just below 4 hours. You may as well catch smaller, much less common ferries from close by islands.
11. Cres Island
Cres Island is the second largest island within the Adriatic Sea and is related to the neighboring island of Losinj by a bridge. Cres Island is barely off of most vacationer radars, however if you’d like an thrilling, much less crowded Croatian island, this makes it a fantastic candidate. Cres City has many Italian qualities for the reason that island was beforehand underneath Venetian rule and has lovely surroundings and loads of historical past.
Issues to do
See the griffon vulture colony – Nature lovers or chicken fans, will love recognizing Cres’ griffon vulture colony. I keep in mind going to see them whereas kayaking round Cres. Cres Island is massively concerned with conservation efforts, providing a refuge for particular birds to thrive away from mass crowds.
Go to the Venetian Tower – The Venetian Tower is an ideal place to understand the island’s historical past. The tower was as soon as a part of the island’s Venetian fortification, constructed whereas Cres was underneath Italian rule.
Find out how to get there
You’ll be able to catch a ferry service from the Croatian mainland or fly to Krk Island and catch a ferry from there.
12. Obonjan
Desire a personal island expertise? Obonjan is among the greatest islands in Croatia. Overlook a resort city; Obonjan is a resort island specializing in luxurious glamping experiences for adults. The island treads the road between party-focused, wellness-focused, and pure luxurious. It presents a holistic vacation bundle, good if you wish to deal with your self to an evening off the mainland. Obonjan has an unique ambiance and is a match made in heaven for luxury-chasing crowds.
Issues to do
Attend one of many festivals or membership nights – Obanjan is at all times internet hosting the newest DJs and artists. Obanjan has a number of the most fun line-ups and common occasions in case you are within the temper for a celebration.
Become involved with resort actions – This may sound like a cop-out itinerary concept, however the resort actually does have all the pieces. You might be attending complimentary yoga courses or attending a movie screening.
Find out how to get there
Obanjan is greatest reached by ferry or taxi boat from Sibenik. Obanjan Island Resort additionally presents boat transfers.
13. Krk Island
Krk is famed for its old-world structure and the charming ambiance that medieval cities promise. Its walled city is stuffed with photogenic again alleys and delightful buildings, some courting again to the Fifth century. Notably, Krk can be the one island the place you’ll be able to spot bears, because the island is so near the mainland that bears swim throughout the strait. Krk is a handy, thrilling vacation spot, ideally suited for these researching day journeys from the mainland.
Issues to do
Go to the Fifth century basilica in Omisalj – The basilica is the oldest remaining constructing on the island of Krk, and it’s a fascinating place in the event you love historical past or archeology. The construction is remarkably intact, and you may simply distinguish the completely different rooms and options.
Go to the Frankopan Fort – Frankopan Fort overlooks the city of Krk and was commissioned by the Frankopan household – an previous noble household in Croatia. The citadel was constantly labored on over the centuries to keep up it, with appreciable work executed within the Thirteenth and 14th centuries.
Find out how to get there
Attending to Krk is so easy that each one you must do is drive over the connecting bridge. As we mentioned, Krk could be very near the mainland shore, that means it may be conveniently related with a everlasting bridge slightly than resorting to ferry crossings.
14. Murter
Murter has that tropical island really feel that you’re very possible craving. Suppose sandy seashores, lush forests, and delightful viewpoints. Murter is simply a tiny island, however that makes it blissful to discover on foot. You’ll be able to stroll to beautiful seashores and spend your day seaside hopping between all of the completely different choices. We suggest bringing snorkeling gear so you can even get pleasure from recognizing the marine life at every seaside.
Issues to do
Go scuba diving – Murter’s waters are good for fishing, so you’ll be able to wager that you just’ll discover a whole lot of marine life scuba diving. The island’s dive middle presents guided dives and scuba programs, so you’ll be able to go for a dive or brush up in your abilities.
Betina Museum of Wood Shipbuilding – The Betina Museum is an enchanting spot to go to and covers the city’s ship-making historical past – from marine instruments to conventional apparel. Whether or not you have an interest in maritime historical past, the museum is a priceless perception into island dwelling.
Find out how to get there
Murter is a dream to get to, as it’s related to the mainland by a small drawbridge. You’ll be able to catch a bus or drive onto the island – keep away from crossing between 5 pm and 5:30 pm when the bridge is lifted.
15. Zlarin
Zlarin is among the most lovely Croatian islands and is positioned simply off the shores of Sibenik. Count on infinite sandy seashores and forests of pine timber. Nonetheless, Zlarin additionally has a incredible procuring scene and is famed for its coral merchandise. A typical profession in Zlarin is to reap coral and switch it into merchandise like jewellery. And the island has historic sights courting again to the Thirteenth century. Zlarin is a little bit of a golden youngster – with wonderful qualities and much to supply.
Issues to do
Go mountaineering – We gained’t decide you for desirous to spend just a few hours on the seaside, however when you find yourself completed, positively benefit from Zlarin’s cliffs. The east of the island is famend for mountaineering, and you may e book an organized climbing exercise to get your adrenaline pumping.
Go to the Coral Museum – Discover out extra in regards to the island’s relationship with coral and browse a number of the greatest coral souvenirs.
Find out how to get there
Attending to Zlarin is straightforward. You catch the ferry from Sibenik, which runs commonly in excessive and low seasons.
16. Veliki Brijun
Veliki Brijun is a part of the Brijun Islands archipelago and top-of-the-line islands in Croatia for appreciating untouched nature. Veliki Brijun is a part of the Brijun Nationwide Park and covers 1,700 acres, most of which is protected inexperienced area. Veliki Brijun is Croatia’s greenest island. Additionally it is recognized for its distinctive, swirled form, typically captured in aerial images of the island.
Issues to do
Go to the dinosaur footprints – Enthusiastic about paleontogology? Veliki Brijun isn’t simply dwelling to Twenty first-century wildlife; you can even spot traces of prehistoric animals on the island. The first dinosaur footprint is only a brief stroll from Veliki Brijun port.
Hop on the ‘Vacationer Prepare’ – For those who’d want to save lots of your legs and vitality, the vacationer prepare is a superb alternative and whisks you across the island on a fast sightseeing tour. You’ll cross all Veliki Brijun’s main sights, together with the safari park.
Find out how to get there
You’ll be able to take a taxi boat to Veliki Brijun, however essentially the most dependable method is to take the ferry from Fazana. Fazana has a daily 20-minute ferry experience that connects Veliki Brijun to the mainland.
17. Dugi Otok
Dugi Otok is among the outer islands off of Zadar in Central Croatia. Whereas not on the well-trodden vacationer path, Dugi Otok is definitely top-of-the-line islands in Croatia. Dugi Otok is nothing wanting paradisical, with lovely seashores and idyllic spots like Sali, a tiny fishing village. The island is among the largest islands off of Zadar and has a lot of journey potential and room to discover.
Issues to do
Telascica Nature Park – Dugi Otok is thought for its saltwater lakes, and Telascica Nature Park is the place you’ll discover Lake Mir. Lake Mir is stuffed with saltwater marine animals and is an excellent pure vacationer attraction.
Go to the Donkey Sanctuary – The Donkey Sanctuary is massively essential on Dugi Otok since donkeys have been closely relied upon for early survival on the island. These days, visiting is a healthful factor to do on the island. Whereas the sanctuary is small, it’s a particular addition to your Dugi Otok itinerary.
Find out how to get there
Attending to Dugi Otok is straightforward, and you may catch a ferry from Zadar in lower than an hour and a half. It’s best to go to for just a few days slightly than rush to handle a day journey.
18. Mrcara
If you’d like a day journey to an uninhabited island, Mrcara is among the greatest islands in Croatia. Mrcara is so off-the-beaten-track that some folks name it the ‘final stand’, and also you’ll solely discover primary facilities on the island like a small jetty and seasonal restaurant. It won’t be the preferred day journey, however when you’ve got a way of journey, you’ll love Mrcara.
Issues to do
Discover the island’s strolling trails – A part of Mrcara’s draw is its uncooked magnificence and stillness. By mountaineering its strolling trails, you’ll have the possibility to immerse your self in nature, and solely nature – listening to chicken songs, admiring flora, and wildlife watching.
Snorkel on the seashores – Going snorkeling is among the greatest issues to do on Mrcara. The pebbled seashores and quiet waters are good for marine life to thrive, and Mrcara is among the greatest Croatian islands to identify marine animals.
Find out how to get there
The easiest way to succeed in Mrcara is to catch a ferry from Break up to Lastovo, the massive island subsequent to Mrcara. From Lastovo, you’ll be able to then manage a shuttle service to Mrcara.
19. Drvenik Veli
Drvenik Veli is among the smallest Croatian Islands close to Break up. It has a humble historical past and has been dwelling to shepherds and nomads for the reason that fifteenth century. Whereas it lacks the infrastructure to supply historic sights, Drvenik Vali has a way of distant group heritage. Drvenik Veil is a incredible alternative if you’d like a glimpse into small Croatian island life.
Issues to do
Pattern native seafood – Freshly caught seafood is at all times a tasty concept, and if you go to Drvenik Veil, we recommend giving in to that temptation. The island depends on its fishing for financial survival, and the handful of native eating places on Drvenik Veil use the freshest catch.
Swim within the Blue Lagoon – Drvenik Veil’s Blue Lagoon is a stupendous place for a dip, and it’s famend for its vibrant blue waters. Its formal title is Krknjasi Bay, which is positioned on the island’s east facet – good and straightforward for guests to entry.
Find out how to get there
Drvenik Veil is shortly reached by taxi boat, or ferry. It takes round half-hour from the mainland to get to the island’s major city of Drvenik.
20. Silba
Silba is among the greatest islands in Croatia for that car-free, fresh-air expertise. You’ll discover a handful of tractors for important transportation duties and the postman on his scooter, and that’s that; the remainder of the island is serene and traffic-free. Silba is among the sunniest locations in Croatia, and with all its hidden coves and seashores, what higher place to absorb the rays.
Issues to do
Seashore hop – Make use of that sunshine and hit the seaside. Silba has a stupendous collection of seashores ready so that you can throw down a seaside towel, and we suggest Dobre Vode and Nozdre essentially the most.
Climb the Toreta – The Toreta is Silba’s solely tower, and you may climb up its slender, spiral stairway for beautiful views over the island and ocean. Legend has it {that a} sailor constructed Toreta for his girlfriend, however she forged his love apart and betrayed him by marrying another person – getting uninterested in watching and ready from the tower.
Find out how to get there
Simply catch the ferry to Silba from Zadar. The experience takes round an hour and runs twice every day however you need to verify the schedule on-line as it’s liable to alter.
And these are a number of the greatest islands in Croatia. Whether or not you choose one of many major islands or head off the overwhelmed monitor, you’ll have a incredible expertise having fun with the wonderful views of the Adriatic Sea. Island hopping is among the best things to do in Croatia to actually see the fantastic thing about the Dalmatian Coast.
Croatian islands are a number of the prettiest on the planet, and their secluded coves and idyllic seashores make them a number of the greatest spots for island hopping on earth.
