Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and one of the most famous vacation destinations in Croatia. It’s the central place of Dalmatia and the city with a special kind of Mediterranean vibe. You’ll feel it once you visit Split. And why should you visit it? Because Split offers so many opportunities and it’s easy to plan a great vacation with Split serving as a base. In this article we’re going to discuss island hopping from Split, Croatia, one of the best activities to enjoy while staying in this Mediterranean oasis.
Some of the most famous islands of Croatia are located near Split, and in this article, we’ll go through the most famous among them. We’re also going to provide you with links to some of the highest-rated island hopping tours in Split so you can easily explore them and choose the best one for you. There is a bit of something for everyone on the islands near Split – from the famous places like the Blue Cave to the peaceful retreats such as Pakleni Islands near Hvar.
Let’s explore the best island hopping adventures from Split!
Why Go Island Hopping from Split? Island hopping is probably the single most famous activity in Split. Period. There are many other nearby attractions near this city but 99% of visitors staying in Split choose to include at least one island visit during their stay. Then there is the famous Krka National Park, another great day trip idea from Split. If you’re looking for adventure tours near Split, then Omiš is a place for you.
Here’s what makes Split the best island hopping destination in Croatia:
Central Location: Split is located in the central part of the Dalmatian coast, which makes it a perfect base for island-hopping tours.Variety of Islands: You have the chance to visit islands like Hvar, Brač, Vis, and Šolta , as well as some smaller and more secluded islands. These islands are among the most popular ones in Croatia .Diverse Activities: All of these islands that we mentioned are full of all kinds of activities you can further enjoy. Hvar is perfect for sailing and kayaking tours, Vis is a peaceful place with stunning beaches, and Brač is famous for its authenticity.Well-Connected Ports: There are many daily ferry services, speedboats, and organized tours from Split that make island hopping as easy as it can get.
Best Islands to Visit from Split Now that you have decided to go island hopping from Split, it’s time to decide which island to visit. It won’t be an easy choice since all of them are beautiful and have something that the other ones don’t. This section will help you to find out a bit more about each of these islands so you can rule some out. Also, we’re going to put some island hopping tour suggestions for each of these locations.
Beware that there are many such tours from Split and some of them cover more places and islands in a short amount of time, while others visit fewer, but with more time at each of the locations. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, but you’ll have a great time either one you choose.
1. Hvar We are starting with the Hvar Islan,d which is the most famous island in Croatia. We live just opposite it on the mainland and travel to Hvar at least 10 times a year for our photography work. Hvar is a location famous for its history, beautiful nature, and beaches.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, lavender fields, historic architecture, and beautiful beaches .
Popular stops of these tours include Hvar Town, Fortica Fortress, and the Pakleni Islands .
Activity Suggestion:
Hvar and Pakleni Islands Full-Day Boat Tour
2. Brač Brač is somewhat similar to Hvar, and it’s closer to Split than Hvar. Many island hopping tours from Split include this island in their itinerary. Brač is known for its traditional and authentic island vibe, and it’s a bit quieter than Hvar Island. One of the most famous beaches in Croatia is also located near Bol on Brač Island.
Brač Island is famous for the Golden Horn Beach (Zlatni Rat) in Bol and its stone quarries .
This island has great options for windsurfing, hiking, and other activities .
The highest peak of all Croatian islands is located on Brač Island (Vidova Gora).
Activity Suggestion:
Brač Island Tour – Discover the natural beauty of Brač Island through a relaxing day trip.
3. Vis Vis is one of the most remote islands in Croatia. For a long time, this island was off limits for visitors because it was a huge base during the Cold War era in former Yugoslavia. After the military left Vis, many underground bunkers and command centers were abandoned and these can be explored nowadays. Vis is also the most peaceful island of all the others on this list. Biševo Island, located very close to Vis, is home to the famous Blue Cave – the most visited natural wonder of the Croatian islands.
Vis is a peaceful island with stunning natural beauty, a relaxed atmosphere, and intriguing military history.
While on the Vis Island, we suggest visiting the Blue Cave on Biševo Island , Stiniva Bay , and the picturesque Komiža Village .
Activity Suggestion:
4. Šolta Of all the islands on this list, we have explored Šolta the least. Still, our one journey to this island was enough to visit some of the most famous of its places. Šolta is very close to Split, and even the famous singer Oliver Dragojević was looking at it from his window and made a song about what he saw.
Šolta is a smaller and less crowded island famous for its olive groves, clear sea, and small fishing villages .
This island is perfect for a peaceful day trip away from the other, busier islands.
Activity Suggestion:
Split to Blue Lagoon and Šolta Tour – Discover and explore Šolta and the nearby Blue Lagoon.
5. Pakleni Islands You could think of Pakleni Islands (also known as Paklinski Islands) as part of Hvar because they are so close to this famous island. Still, we have included them in this list because many island hopping tours from Split include them in their itinerary. Pakleni Islands got their name from the pine tree tar called Pakla or Paklina, which was used in wooden shipbuilding for a long time. This archipelago nowadays is the place of beautiful secluded bays and many beach clubs and restaurants.
Located just off the coast of Hvar , the Pakleni Islands are an archipelago of many smaller islands known for their beauty and serenity.
Enjoy their beaches, hidden bays, and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Activity Suggestion:
Private Sailing Tour to Pakleni Islands – Explore these islands at your own pace and stop wherever and whenever you want to.
How to Go Island Hopping from Split When it comes to the ways you can go island hopping from Split, there are only a few options. Here’s what they are and what to expect out of each of them.
1. Organized Day Tours (Recommended)
The most convenient and most chosen way to explore multiple islands in a single day or half day.
Offers a predefined itinerary with a guide and boat transportation (usually a speedboat).
The best option for visitors with limited time who want to see as much as possible in a single day.
2. Private Boat Tours
Private island hopping tours from Split are the perfect option for those looking for a more exclusive and personalized experience of this kind.
These kinds of tours allow you to choose your itinerary and explore only the islands you want.
Luxurious but a bit more expensive than the group tours mentioned above.
3. Ferries and Catamarans
Ferries and catamarans connect Split with all major islands like Hvar, Brač, Šolta, and Vis .
The are the most affordable ways of traveling to these islands, but limited in flexibility.
Great option for travelers who want to stay overnight on different islands.
Before You Venture on Island Hopping Adventure from Split Island hopping from Split , Croatia,
Enjoy your island hopping in Croatia!
