Croatia Island Hopping Guide

Stuck for holiday ideas this summer? It doesn’t get any better than island hopping in Croatia. With over 1,000 different islands located along the Adriatic coast, each with their own unique charm and character, you are guaranteed an experience like no other. Whether you are travelling with the family or looking for a romantic getaway, the islands of Croatia offer everything from picturesque beaches to seafront restaurants. All at affordable prices!

How to get around the islands in Croatia

When it comes to travelling between the islands of Croatia, ferries are the best transport option. Almost every island in Croatia is accessible by ferry, whether it’s a high-speed catamaran or a slower car ferry. These usually run throughout the whole year but operate an increased service during the summer when the demand is high. 

How easy is it to island hop in Croatia?

Island hopping in Croatia couldn’t be any easier. Set up camp in either Split or Dubrovnik and you will have no trouble finding a ferry to the neighbouring islands. Each of the Croatian archipelagos are only a short distance from the mainland, making it a great destination for island-hopping. You can spend a few hours on an island before embarking on your next adventure across Dalmatia via boat.

How many days do I need for Croatian island hopping?

We all want to get the most out of our holiday. But how much time do I need for island-hopping in Croatia? This all depends on how many islands that you are planning to visit. We suggest that you allow yourself at least a week if you travelling to 3-4 islands. That way, you can experience each destination to the fullest without having to skip some attractions. You might need up to 2 weeks should you wish to visit 6 or more islands. 

How much is island hopping in Croatia?

You don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket to travel around Croatia. Ferries are one of the cheapest forms of transportation, with ticket prices ranging from $7 to $226. The best way to keep the price to a minimum is by travelling as a foot passenger and booking in advance. If you are on a tight budget, you might prefer getting ferries to the islands which are closest as these will usually be the cheapest. 

Island Hopping from Split

Split is a picturesque coastal city with a great blend of history and modernity. By day, you can enjoy an espresso along the city’s seaside promenade and explore the ancient ruins of Diocletian’s Palace. By night, you can paint the town red in the many lively bars of the Old Town. Whatever you are after, Split has it in abundance. 

Its location in Dalmatia also makes it very popular for island hopping. There are so many islands accessible from Split by ferry including Hvar, Brac, Vis, Korcula and Solta. These ferry routes take anywhere from 25 minutes to 2 hours and 55 minutes. If you are interested, here is a list of the ferries from Split.

Island Hopping to Hvar

Conveniently located off the Dalmatian Coast, just 19.2 nautical miles from Split, Hvar is something out of a fairytale. As the fourth largest island in Croatia, Hvar has become very popular among tourists for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful weather and stunning beaches. It also offers tranquillity as you move away from the bustling port area, with expansive vineyards, lavender fields and secluded coves, perfect for those looking for a peaceful getaway.  

The fun doesn’t have to stop there. Why not continue your island-hopping adventure? There are so many other islands within close distance of Hvar. Climb aboard the Hvar to Bol ferry with TP Line and arrive at your destination in just 55 minutes or take the Hvar to Korcula ferry with Krilo Kapetan Luka and arrive in just 1 hour and 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can travel 16 nautical miles (29km) to the beautiful island of Vis. The world is your oyster. 

Island Hopping to Brac

As the largest island in Dalmatia, Brac does not get the credit it deserves. This island is home to one of the most famous beaches in the Adriatic, known as the Golden Horn Beach (Zlatni Rat), fittingly named for its unique shape. If you prefer a more serene atmosphere, away from the vivacious nightlife of Hvar, then look no further than Brac. With beautiful quaint resorts like Supetar and Sutivan, this is the ideal place for downtime.

Brac is one of the best places for island hopping as it has several ports including Bol, Supetar, Postira and Milna. It’s a great starting place with a car ferry available from Split. You can catch the Milna to Korcula ferry which takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. If you fancy yourself a party, you could even get the Bol to Hvar ferry with TP Line, which only takes 55 minutes.

Island Hopping to Vis

Although Vis is one of the smaller islands in Croatia, do not let its size fool you. This Adriatic paradise is certainly worth visiting. Famously the filming location for Mamma Mia, Vis has a range of beautiful attractions as seen in the movie from Barjoska Bay to the ferry harbour. This island not only has vast amounts of secluded beaches, but it also offers fascinating historic landmarks like an abandoned Yugoslav Army Underground Boat Shelter. 

Vis is a brilliant destination for island hopping around Dalmatia. You could start your trip here with a ferry from Split to Vis and then continue by taking the Vis to Hvar ferry. If you want to bypass the glitzy nightlife of Hvar then you could always catch the Vis to Bol ferry. 

Island Hopping from Dubrovnik

The medieval city of Dubrovnik is not only a magnificent holiday destination but it’s also a central hub for ferry travel. If you are looking to island hop in Croatia, you have come to the right place. There are so many unspoilt islands within sailing distance of Dubrovnik including Sobra, Korcula, Lokrum, Luka Sipanska and Hvar.

These ferry routes take anywhere between 45 minutes to 3 hours and 30 minutes depending on which island tickles your fancy. Whether it’s the ancient beauty of Korcula’s Old Town or the scenic coves of Hvar, there is so much choice when you sail from Dubrovnik. Here is a list of the ferry routes you could take:

Island Hopping to Mljet

Jump aboard the Dubrovnik to Sobra ferry and arrive on the majestic island of Mljet. This is the southernmost island in the Dalmatia region of Croatia but is best known for its phenomenal national park. Located on the western end, Mljet National Park comprises 5,400 hectares of beautiful coastline, clear-blue saltwater lakes and shady cycling tracks. You can rent bikes in the nearby villages of Pomena or Polace for cheap prices and get around the island faster. 

Mljet is a perfect place for island hopping as it has various ferry ports including Pomena, Polace and Sobra. If you wish to explore more of Dalmatia, you could either catch the Pomena to Korcula ferry or the Pomena to Hvar ferry. These routes are both available with TP Line and Krilo Kapetan Luka.

Island Hopping to Lokrum

Just 600 metres from the walls of Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is a perfect destination for a day trip. Take the ferry from Dubrovnik Old Town and reach its rugged coast in less than 30 minutes. There is so much to admire about this island from its beautiful botanical gardens to the old monk monastery. You can even hike up the Path of Paradise, famously a filming location in Game of Thrones, and look out over Dubrovnik. If you want to cool off, take a plunge in the natural cove of Mrtvo More.