How to go Island Hopping in Croatia: The Best Routes and Islands to Visit
If you’re dreaming of a sun-drenched European holiday this summer, Island hopping Croatia could be just the tonic. We’re here to guide you through the best islands and routes to help you plan your very own island hopping adventure in Croatia.
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An Introduction to Island Hopping in Croatia
Best Airport for Island Hopping
6 Best Islands to Visit in Croatia
3 Best Island Hopping Routes (5, 7 and 10 days)
An Introduction to Island Hopping in Croatia
If you love the idea of an island hopping holiday, Croatia is one of the very best places in the world to do it in. The geography and infrastructure is there for you to plan a seamless Island hopping itinerary that covers some of Croatia’s most famous and glamorous islands including Hvar and Brač, as well as discovering lots of lesser known gems along the way like Vis and Lastovo.
Before we get started, it’s worth knowing that Croatia is scattered with over 1,200 islands, of which only 48 are inhabited year-round. On these islands you will find charming coastal towns, nature reserves and beaches, all surrounded by the glittering adriatic sea.
In this article, we’re going to guide you through 6 of the very best islands to visit on a Croatia island hopping holiday, with the best activities and hot spots to visit on each Island, followed by 3 great routes for a 5 day, 7 day and 10 day itinerary. Let’s get into it!
Why Island Hop in Croatia?
Island hopping is such a great concept in Croatia because it offers ideal sailing conditions as well as short distances between the islands, so you really can ‘hop’ from one to another without it feeling like a full day journey. There are lots of options on how to hop from island to island including the ferry network, sailing boat hire and any Croatia yacht charter service.
As part of the Croatia island hopping experience, you can expect to enjoy a rich blend of coastal and natural beauty, historical sites, vibrant nightlight, buzzy beach clubs and fresh seafood. There’s also endless opportunity for swimming, snorkelling and other water activities.
Best Time to go
The summer season is undoubtably the best time to plan your island hopping adventure, so try to plan it between late May and early October at the latest. You can still get some fantastic weather in Croatia during these ‘shoulder seasons’ and there will be less crowds and lower prices. Croatia’s peak season is July to August, where you’re guaranteed warm seas and fantastic nightlife.
Best Airport for Island Hopping
The best place to start (and end) your island hopping adventure would be in Split, which is located on Croatia’s mainland and is an ideal gateway to Croatia’s many islands. It has an international airport, a great ferry network as well as lots of charter and boat services so you have a range of options to access the islands. We also recommend allowing a day or two to discover the town of Split before heading to the islands. Further down this article we’ve shared 3 great island hopping routes, which all start and end in Split.
Browse cheap flights to Split.
6 Best Islands to Visit in Croatia
1. Hvar – The Glamorous All-Rounder
Often dubbed the “St. Tropez of Croatia,” Hvar is a lively island known for its blend of history, luxury, nightlife, and natural beauty. Because of its popularity, prices are high and it’s worth knowing this before arriving. Best For: First-time sailors, foodies, nightlife lovers, and luxury travellers.
Top things to do in Hvar
- Explore Hvar Town with its 13th-century walls and hilltop Fortica Fortress.
- Enjoy sunset cocktails at Hula Hula Beach Bar.
- Visit Stari Grad, one of Europe’s oldest towns and a UNESCO site.
- Nearby Pakleni Islands offer secluded coves perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
2. Vis – The Secluded Gem
Vis is one of the furthest inhabited islands from the mainland, known for its unspoiled nature and authentic Croatian charm. Best For: Off-the-beaten-path seekers, snorkelers, and slow travellers.
Top things to do in Vis
- Take a boat trip to the Blue Cave on Biševo Island (nearby).
- Swim at Stiniva Cove, a hidden beach surrounded by cliffs.
- Discover Komiža, a traditional fishing village with waterfront cafés.
- Dive WWII shipwrecks or explore old military tunnels.
3. Korčula – The Mini Dubrovnik
A historic island with medieval architecture, vineyards, and rich cultural heritage. Known as the (disputed) birthplace of Marco Polo. Best For: Culture lovers, food and wine enthusiasts, history buffs.
Top things to do in Korčula
- Stroll through Korčula Old Town, often called a mini-Dubrovnik.
- Wine tasting in Lumbarda, famous for its local Grk wine.
- Paddleboard or kayak along scenic coves.
- Bike through olive groves and forests.
4. Brač – Home to Croatia’s Most Famous Beach
Easily accessible from Split, Brač is home to Zlatni Rat, one of the most iconic beaches in the Adriatic.
Top things to do in Brač
- Swim or windsurf at Zlatni Rat Beach in Bol.
- Visit the Blaca Hermitage, a stone monastery built into a cliff.
- Explore the quiet fishing village of Milna, a favorite among sailors.
- Try local Brač stone carving workshops and olive oil tasting.
Best For: Beach lovers, active travellers, day-sail itineraries.
5. Šolta – The Peaceful Retreat
Just a short sail from Split, Šolta offers a quiet escape with crystal- clear bays and traditional Croatian charm. Best For: Nature lovers, couples, short sailing trips.
Top things to do in Šolta
- Drop anchor at Šešula Bay for snorkeling and swimming.
- Enjoy a seafood dinner in the beautiful harbor of Maslinica.
- Visit Gornje Selo for local honey, olive oil, and wine tastings.
- Hike or bike the island’s pine-covered trails.
6. Lastovo – The Remote Nature Park
Designated as a nature park, Lastovo is Croatia’s hidden paradise. Few crowds, dark skies for stargazing, and pristine waters make it a true escape. Best For: Serenity seekers, sailors who love remote nature, photographers.
Top things to do in Lastovo
- Anchor in Zaklopatica Bay for stunning sunset views.
- Dive into caves and snorkel in secluded coves.
- Stargaze – Lastovo is known for some of the clearest skies in Europe.
- Explore abandoned military structures and hike lush forest paths.
3 Best Island Hopping Routes (5, 7 and 10 days)
Below are 3 great island hopping routes which all start and end in Split. We’ve put these routes together based on layout and access by boat. If you had a one week holiday, we’d suggest the 5 day route with 1 or 2 days in Split either side of your island hopping. If you had time for a 2 week holiday, we recommend the 10 day route. Keeping some time spare before and after allows for a more relaxing experience, or the option to stay an extra night or two somewhere, if you really fall in love with it.
5-Day Route: Quick Getaway through the Dalmatian Jewels Route
Split → Brač → Hvar → Pakleni Islands → Šolta → Split
7-Day Route: Classic Dalmatian Loop
Route: Split → Brač → Hvar → Vis → Pakleni Islands → Šolta → Split
10-Day Route: Deep Dive into the Adriatic
Route: Split → Brač → Hvar → Vis → Lastovo → Korčula → Pakleni → Šolta → Split
Final Thoughts
Whether you’e a seasoned sailor or considering you first ever island hopping holiday, Croatia is ideal for everyone. With magical coastal towns, glittering beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, you cannot fail to be enchanted by the freedom of island hopping in Croatia.
Read more of our travel guides on Croatia and nearby Montenegro;
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