The islands
Numerous ferries and catamarans depart from Split to the islands of the Split archipelago. The starting point for all of them, as well as for private boat tours, is the City Port, i.e. Riva or Matejuška.
The islands of Brač, Hvar and Šolta are suitable for one-day trips, while a visit to Vis (Blue Cave) and Korčula requires at least two days if you are going on your own. Numerous stalls of travel agencies and small shipping companies on the Riva offer one-day trips to nearby islands, including a trip to the Blue Cave.
Brač
Brač is the island closest to Split and an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip. It is connected by numerous ferry lines that dock in Supetar and a catamaran that docks in Bol. It is in Bol, in the immediate vicinity of the centre, that the most famous beach on the Adriatic is located – Zlatni rat, changing its shape due to the wind and sea currents. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Zlatni rat can enjoy various activities and aquatic sports.
Brač is famous for its superb white stone, used in the construction of numerous world landmarks, and for the renowned stonemasonry school in Pučišća, where the centuries-old tradition of stonemasonry is still carefully preserved today.
For fans of culture and history, there is the Blaca Hermitage – a unique monastery complex hidden among the rocks of the island’s southern coast. This former refuge of Glagolitic priests delights with its architecture and interesting history, which is why it is a popular excursion destination for visitors to Brač.
Šolta
Šolta is an ideal choice for an excursion to the island, combining peace, authenticity and untouched nature. This quiet Dalmatian gem delights with crystal clear sea, beautiful beaches and charming fishing villages that preserve the spirit of the Mediterranean as it once was.
Noted since the Illyrian era, Šolta is intertwined with stories and legends, among which the one about the Illyrian Queen Teuta, who had her fortress here, stands out. Today, the island attracts fans of active holidays – from walks through olive groves and vineyards to cycling along bike trails.
Šolta is widely known for its wine, olive oil and carob, an important ingredient of traditional desserts since ancient times. The combination of natural beauty and tradition makes Šolta the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the authentic Mediterranean – close to the city, but far from everyday life.
Hvar
Hvar is famous as the sunniest Croatian island, but also as one of the most culturally valuable areas in the Adriatic. Its rich history is intertwined with crystal clear sea, charming towns, picturesque villages and peaceful bays.
In the immediate vicinity of Stari Grad is the Starogradsko polje (field), a unique example of ancient plot division that was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008.
The town of Hvar preserves some of the most valuable cultural treasures of Croatia, among which the Hvar Public Theatre, founded in 1612 and known as the oldest public theatre in Europe, stands out. There is also the famous Hvar agave lace, protected by UNESCO, which has been handmade by the Benedictine nuns of Hvar for centuries.
The town is guarded by the impressive Fortica (Španjola/Spaniola) fortress, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the old part of the town and the Pakleni Islands. It is precisely Pakleni, with their secluded bays and crystal clear sea, that are a favourite haven for sailors, aficionados of peace, quiet and an almost Robinson-like way of vacationing.
The island of Hvar offers a combination of natural beauty and rich historical heritage that makes it an indispensable destination for every visitor to Dalmatia.
Vis
The most remote inhabited Croatian island was known as Issa in the time of the ancient Greeks. It was here that they planted the first vineyards and laid the foundations of the traditions for which Vis is still recognizable today – fishing, winemaking and seafaring.
Today, Vis represents the perfect blend of rich history and untouched nature. The town of Vis will enchant you with its cobblestone streets and quiet coves, while Komiža, a charming fishing village, captivates with its authenticity and warmth, which is why visitors keep returning.
Vis is also known for its beautiful beaches – from turquoise coves hidden among steep cliffs to wide pebble beaches that offer complete peace. The Blue Cave, located on the neighbouring islet of Biševo, attracts an increasing number of visitors with its beauty year after year, without exception, leaving them breathless.
