Vis Island, Croatia: Things To Do

The Croatian Island of Vis is one of the most intriguing and unspoiled Dalmatian Islands to visit. Vis Island stands as the furthest inhabited island from the Croatian mainland. For many years, it was used as a military base, making it inaccessible to tourists. While not nearly as developed for tourism as other Croatian Islands, there are many fun things to do on Vis Island, Croatia for visitors!

 

Vis Island, Croatia: How To Get There and What To Do

For many travelers who visit Vis, Croatia, the first question is: How do I get to Vis Island? That question is often followed by: What is there to do on Vis Island?

To help fellow explorers make the most of their trip, we are covering everything you need to know about planning a trip to Vis, Croatia.

 

Planning a Trip to Vis Island, Croatia

The island of Vis in Croatia is a spectacular Dalmatian destination. In our opinion, it is one of the very best places in Croatia to visit. The island is drenched in beauty and attractions range from picturesque beaches to adventurous hikes to engaging tours to local wine tastings.

Because the island is sparsely populated and public transit is somewhat limited, it takes a bit more preparation to plan your Vis vacation.

We are featuring our top tips to help you sort your Vis, Croatia travel plans. However, for more advice about visiting the entire country, use our Guide to Planning a Croatian Vacation.

As you plan your vacation, organization is key! Use our printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the pertinent travel details. The 26-page Travel Planner is available on Etsy and is an instant download – so you can put it to use right away!

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How To Get to Vis, Croatia

There are a few different ways to get to the Croatian Island Vis – and how the island fits into your overall travel plans will determine how you arrive.

Most travelers will get to Vis Island two ways: The ferry from Split to Vis or on an organized Vis day trip. An alternate way to get to Vis Island is via a Croatia Cruise. 

 

Ferry from Split to Vis Island

Split, Croatia serves as an excellent jumping off point for exploring the nearby islands that are scattered along the Dalmatian Coast. Inexpensive ferries transport passengers from the Croatia mainland to the islands year-round.

Although Hvar and Korcula are two of the top islands to visit from Split, there is regular ferry service to many other Croatian Island towns, including from Split to Vis Town.

 

Jadrolinija Split to Vis Ferry

The ferry between Vis and Split is run by Jadrolinija. The car ferry to Vis takes 2 hours and 20 minutes. Ferry ticket prices to Vis are fairly affordable and fluctuate in price between the low and peak season, but generally costs less than $10 USD each way.

Jadrolinija tickets can be purchased online or in person at the Split ferry dock or at the Jadrolinija office at the end of the Split Riva. The schedule varies by day and by season, so it is best to check online or in person for accurate Split to Vis timetables and fares.

 

Day Trip to Vis from Split

Even though Vis Island is a bit off the beaten path, it is possible to get to the island on a day trip adventure.

In fact, the popular Bisevo Blue Cave Tour from Split (read reviews!) also stops at Vis Island (but does not allow time for any island exploration).

If you want to plan a Split to Vis Island day trip on your own using the ferry, it is possible.

However, Vis day trippers need to pay close attention to the ferry schedules. We go into more detail about how to get to Vis on a day trip using the ferries at the end of the post (after we cover what to do in Vis, Croatia!).

 

Understanding Vis Island, Croatia

Before setting sail for the island of Vis, it’s important to understand a little bit about the history and layout of the island.

 

The Vis Archipelago

Comprised of 13 islands (of which only 3 are inhabited), the Vis Archipelago features unique geological rock formations and numerous caves. The most popular of all Croatia caves – Blue Cave – is located within in the archipelago on the island next to Vis: Bisevo, Croatia.

 

Vis Island History

Occupied in the 4th century by Greeks, Issa (now Vis Town), was an advanced society. Already at that time, Vis Island was an important stop along the Adriatic route (between what is now Italy and Croatia). During the Middle Ages, wealthy noblemen had their summer palaces built in Vis Town and Komiza.

In the early 1800s, the island was ruled by England. The island provided a beneficial trade route to Europe during the Napoleonic wars when there was blockade on Great Britain – and the island flourished.  

The largest naval battle in the Adriatic Sea, The Battle of Vis, occurred in 1866 when Italy attempted (but failed) to take Vis Island and Dalmatia from the (then ruling) Austro-Hungarian Empire.

During World War II, Vis was a free territory – but the island was used as an air base for the Allied Forces. After the war, Vis Island became part of Yugoslavia.

Under Yugoslav President Tito’s direction, the island was fortified as a military base. In addition to expanding the existing forts, Tito built a submarine cave and a maze of tunnels that crawl beneath Vis Island.

 

Vis Island, Croatia: Vis Town and Komiza

Of the 13 islands in the archipelago, Vis Island is the largest and most populated. Although there are small villages around the island, the two main towns on Vis Island are Vis Town and Komiza. 

Vis Town sits on the northeast end of the island and Komiza is located on the west side. Both towns are strategically located in deep bays as a natural means of protection – and both are a great jumping off point for visiting the top Vis Island attractions.

 

Vis Town, Croatia

The town of Vis is located at the end of a sheltered bay – and is the larger of the two towns with 2,000 residents. The town, historically called Issa, was founded in the year 397 BC. There is evidence that Vis is the oldest town in Croatia…but Stari Grad on Hvar Island also boasts the same claim.

Prior to the 16th century, the deep bay hosted several smaller towns, which have now all merged together as Vis. The town of Vis is where the ferries from Split dock.

 

Komiza, Croatia

Located on the west end of Vis Island at the foot of Hum Hill, Komiza is home to 1,500 residents. Komiza was settled by Benedictine monks in the 13th century and developed into a fishing, farming and wine-making village. Some of our favorite things to do on Vis Island are easy to reach from Komiza.  

 

Getting from Vis To Komiza

There are two roads across the island that connect Vis to Komiza. Visitors can travel between the two towns via public bus, car, scooter rental or in a Vis Taxi. The towns are about 6.5 miles apart and it takes roughly 15 minutes to get between the two in a vehicle.

 

Vis Island Bus

Buses are few and far between on Vis Island – and limited to just a few stops between Vis Town and Komiza. Buses from the Vis Town port are coordinated with the arrival of ferry boats.

A current schedule is posted at the main bus stops in Vis Town and Komiza – and the timetable changes with the season. Tickets cost about $3 each way and are purchased directly from the driver.

The Vis Town bus stop is at the base of the pier at the Vis Town Port. The bus stop in Komiza is one street back from the port at this location.

 

Vis Town or Komiza?

Deciding which town to visit – Komiza or Vis Town – is a big decision. That said, whether you visit Komiza or Vis will likely depend on how you plan on getting to Vis, Croatia, how you intend to get around, your personal interests and how long you want to stay.

For example, on a Vis Day Trip by ferry, there may not be enough time to visit both towns. However, visitors who plan to stay on Vis Island for a few nights can easily visit both towns.

We have stayed in Komiza on Vis Island for a week – but have also spent time in the Vis Town Port on both day trips and overnight on a Croatian Island Hopping Cruise. Personally, we prefer staying in Komiza, but there are many things to do in Vis Town, as well!

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20 Things To Do in Vis, Croatia

Our list of what to do in Vis includes the top island sights and activities. At the end of the post, we include an Island of Vis, Croatia Map marked with the locations of the top Vis Island things to do.

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Vis Travel Guide for planning your vacation to Croatia!

 

#1 Ride a Boat into the Blue Cave Croatia

The Bisevo Blue Cave is a natural wonder. Accessed via a small opening in the rock wall, tiny boats carry passengers inside the cave to see the neon blue interior. The naturally lit cave is created by sunlight illuminating the cave floor through an underwater opening.

Although each boat only spends approximately five minutes inside, a Blue Cave Tour is considered a Croatia must-see. Note: It is not permitted to swim inside the Vis Island Blue Cave.

The most popular way to visit the Blue Cave near Vis, Croatia is via a tour from Split or Hvar. However, visitors staying on the island can book a Blue Cave Vis Tour from Komiza or take the local ferry and organize the small boat tour into the cave once on Bisevo Island.

{Book a highly-rated Blue Cave Split Tour now – read reviews!}

 

#2 Swim Inside Green Cave Croatia

Although not nearly as popular as the Blue Cave day trip, visiting the Green Cave is one of the top things to do in Vis, Croatia. The Green Cave is located on the uninhabited island of Ravnik, which sits off the southeastern tip of the Island of Vis.

Unlike the Blue Cave, visitors are free to swim inside where a single shaft of light shines through a hole in the rock ceiling. Visitors can take a Green Cave Vis Tour by motorboat or via kayak.

 

#3 Soak up the Sun on Vis, Croatia Beaches

Unlike other Dalmatian Island beaches that are rock or pebble, there are Vis, Croatia beaches that have sand. The most popular Vis Island beaches are tucked into deep coves and feature sandy shores.

On the other hand, visitors not fussed with rocky shorelines have an abundance of choices when it comes to Vis Beaches…just pick any cove!

 

Stoncica Vis Beach

Located on the east end of Vis Island near Vis Town, Stoncica Beach has a shallow bay and small café. This Vis beach is well-known for the small section of sandy beach, so it’s recommended to get there early if you want a sandy spot!

 

Stiniva Beach Vis Island, Croatia

The beach at Stiniva, Vis Island is one of the most spectacular of all Croatia beaches – and spending time at Stiniva is one of the top things to do on Vis Island.

The beach is tucked into a long bay on the southern side of the island. High cliffs surround the small beach, where water flows ashore through a small opening in the rock wall.

Visitors can access the beach via land (and an incredibly steep walk down the hillside) or via the sea in a small boat. Some tours will sail into Stiniva Cove if conditions permit.

 

Gusarica Pebble Beach in Komiza

There are many beaches in Komiza, but Gusarica is the town’s largest and most popular. Although Gusarica Beach has pebbles, not sand, the shallow bay makes it easy to wade into the water. The top of the beach is lined with trees that provide excellent shade from the sun when it gets too hot.

 

#4 Spend a Day Boating around Vis

One of the best ways to navigate the shoreline of Vis Island is in a boat. Visitors have the option of kayaking, renting a boat, hiring a skipper or booking a tour.

 

Vis Kayaking

Kayaking around the coast of Vis is a fun active island adventure. Paddle along the shoreline under towering cliffs, explore the deep coves and visit nearby islands. Visitors can join organized kayak excursions or get a kayak rental in Vis, Croatia to explore on their own.

 

Vis Boat Rental

Travelers with a boating license can rent a boat in Vis, Croatia. Fees start at about 100 euros per day. Visitors who do not have a boating license can still explore the island by boat by hiring a skipper for a private boat tour. 

 

#5 Take the Ferry to Bisevo Island

Travelers who want to explore Bisevo Island off the southwestern tip of Vis Island can plan their own day trip using the local Komiza-Bisevo ferry boat.

The boat departs from the Komiza Port in the morning – and makes stops at Mezoporat (where Blue Cave Tours begin), Salbunara and Porat. The boat returns to Komiza in the afternoon or early evening. The Bisevo Ferry schedule depends on the season and day of week, so be sure to check  for the current times at the Komiza Tourist Office.

The best things to do on Bisevo Island are joining a Blue Cave Tour, spending time on the sandy beaches in Porat and Salbunara and visiting Bisevo Town and the 1,000-year-old St. Sylvester Church.

Bisevo Island is small – so it is possible to take the ferry to the last stop in Porat, walk to Salburnara, hike over the top and then down to the marina for a Blue Cave tour…all before the afternoon ferry returns to Vis Island.

 

#6 Go Diving from Vis Island, Croatia

Scuba divers will not want to miss diving in Vis Island! In addition to the island’s incredible natural geological formations (like the fascinating caves and hidden coves), there are numerous underwater wreck sites around the island.

In fact, for travelers enthralled by wreck dives, the coastal waters of the Island of Vis not only feature shipwrecks, but plane wrecks, too!

 

#7 Embark on a Vis Island Tour

The Blue Cave Tour from Vis and other water activities are the most popular island tours, but are several others. Visitors have many options when choosing Vis tours that showcase the best of the island.

One of the best things to do on Vis Island, Croatia is to learn more about the history, geology and gastronomy of the island on a tour.

Visitors interested in learning about local cuisine can join a Food and Vis Wine Tour. And, on-land adventurers can follow a Vis, Croatia guide on a hike to hidden caves and secret beaches.

 

#8 Join a Vis Island Military Tour

The history of Vis, Croatia is tightly intertwined with its use as a military base. Tunnels, bunkers and abandoned barracks dot the island landscape.

Many of the historic military sights are completely accessible to the public – like the Stupišće Military Base on the southwestern tip of the island and the submarine base on the northern coast. Just be sure to bring a flashlight (a headlamp would be better) if you want to explore the underground tunnels.

However, visitors will likely benefit from joining a tour for the experience – as the local guides know the best secret places. 

One highly-rated Vis Island tour of military sights takes visitors deep into Tito’s Cave and through underground tunnels. Find out more!

Another popular Military Tour features a secret submarine base, Fort George, a WWII airport and, of course, tunnels! Book it here!

 

#9 Explore the Old Town Lanes of Komiža

One of the fun things to do in Komiza is to get lost in the tangle of cobblestone lanes in the historic old town. Ribarska is the main thoroughfare that runs parallel to the shoreline from the Riva to Gusarica Beach. The lanes east crawl up through neighborhoods, while the lanes to the west lead right down to the water.  

While exploring the Old Town, keep an eye out for the 18 plaques that provide snippets of information about Komiza’s history.

 

#10 Go To the Komiza Pirate’s Church

One of the more interesting Komiza, Croatia things to do is the visit the church of St. Mary. Better known as The Church of Our Lady of the Pirates, the historic church is located at Gusarica Beach. The church itself is interesting, but the Pirate’s Church legends are intriguing.

There are many legends about how the Church of St. Mary got its moniker, Lady of the Pirates. According to one tale, pirates tried to steal a portrait of Mary that was hanging in the church. When they took it to the boat, they were unable to paddle away. Eventually, they returned the painting to the church and were able to escape.

 

#11 Visit the Church of St. Nicholas in Komiza

One of the most stunning sights in Vis, Croatia is the Church of St. Nicholas that sits on the hillside among the vineyards above the town of Komiza. Dating to the 13th century, the Benedictine monastery and church were fortified as a church/fortress.

St. Nicholas is the patron saint of fishermen and sailors – and was adopted as the patron saint of the town of Komiza, as well. Therefore, each year on December 6, Saint Nicholas Day, Komiza locals partake in the tradition of burning a boat in front of the church as a sacrifice.

If the church is open, visitors can go inside and climb the old stairs up the bell tower for a small fee. However, even if the church is closed, it is an ideal spot to take in the sweeping views over the bay and wander through the cemetery.

 

#12 See the Fort of Komiza

The 16th century Komiza castle – also called the Grimaldi Fortress – was built to defend the town against pirates, which is why it was built right on the harbor. The clock tower was added in the 19th century and, today, the building houses the Museum of Fishing.

 

#13 Trek Up to Hum Hill, Vis

The 587-meter (1925-foot) Hum Hill is the highest peak on Vis Island – and active travelers can make the trek to the top. The strenuous climb can be completed in about 1.5 hours. At the peak, there is a small chapel – and exceptional views of Vis, the sea and nearby islands (and on really clear days, Italy!).

Visitors with a vehicle can also drive to the top of Hum Hill. It takes about 20 minutes to drive from Komiza and is particularly beautiful at sunset.

 

#14 Hike from Komiza to Barjoska Beach

Less intense hiking trails on Vis Island are found on the north side of Komiza around Dragodid – and our favorite destination is Barjoska Beach.

The marked 703 trail takes hikers up the hillside for elevated views of Komiza, before winding through the forest and past ancient stone dwellings. Along the route, side trails detour down to secluded beaches.

To get to Barjoska Beach – which was featured in the movie, Mamma Mia 2 – trekkers detour from the trail at the abandoned military barracks and follow the dirt road down to the shoreline. Continuing the walk along the road ends at another deserted military base (and another Mamma Mia filming location).

 

#15 Find the Mamma Mia Filming Locations

Although Mamma Mia is set in Greece, much of the sequel film, Mamma Mia 2: Here We Go Again was filmed on the Island of Vis, Croatia.

Fans of the film will recognize sights, such as Stiniva Beach, the Vis Harbor, Barjoska Beach, and the local Jastozera restaurant (which features in the film as the Greek taverna). For more Vis, Croatia Mamma Mia film locations in this article.

 

#16 Discover the Remains of Issa in Vis Town

One of the top things to do in Vis Town is to discover the remains of Issa.

The ancient city of Issa was an advanced city – with thermal baths, a theater and a necropolis. Visitors can seek out the historic sights, which are all near the port in Vis Town.

 

#17 Visit the Many Churches near Vis Port

There are several Catholic churches in Vis – some of which date to the 16th century. Our favorite church in Vis is the Church of St. Jerome, which occupies the peninsula on the northern side of the port.

Walking along the water’s edge to St. Jerome for wonderful views is one of the top Vis, Croatia things to do!

 

#18 Go to the Historic Forts near Vis Town

Many of the defensive structures on Vis Island were built during the Yugoslav era when the island was a military base. However, the island was used for military purposes long before Tito came to power.

In the southwest corner of the Vis port is the Perasti Tower, which was built in 1617. Along the southern side of the port is Our Lady’s Battalion, built by the Austrians in the 1830s; the fort now houses the Archaeological Museum, which is another interesting place to visit on Vis Island.

 

#19 Wander the Lanes in Vis Town

One of the best things to do in Vis, Croatia is to stroll through the streets to find historic villas (many of which are now hotels, restaurants or shops).

The palaces were built on the southern side of the port in the 16th century – along with more modest dwellings in the village of Kut that still survive today.

 

#20 Learn to Stand Up Paddleboard in Milna

One of the best things to do in Vis, Croatia is to spend time on the sea in the secluded coves and clear blue waters. Visitors who want a unique experience can go to Milna Bay to learn how to stand up paddleboard.

The 1.5-hour tour includes a guide to lead the way into quiet coves that are perfect for paddling, swimming and splashing. Find out more!

Bonus: For a truly unique experience on the water, join a challenging (but fun!) Paddleboard Yoga Class!

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Island of Vis, Croatia Restaurants

Many of the restaurants in Vis, Croatia are konobas – family-run restaurants serving traditional fare, like seafood, grilled meat, pasta and pizza. We are featuring a few of the best places to eat in Vis Island.

 

Fort George Vis Town

Rated as one of the best fine dining restaurants on Vis Island, Fort George Croatia is an upscale eatery housed in a historic British fort. Local risotto starters and fresh fish dinners are top menu options – but they have traditional meat offerings, as well.

The seaside location offers impeccable views – so, if not for dinner, at least consider having an evening cocktail from the bar at sunset.

 

Karijola Pizzeria in Vis Town

Pizza-lovers should check out Karijola Pizzeria in Vis Town. According to some, Karijola makes the best pizza in all of Croatia…and we couldn’t resist trying it for ourselves!

The small restaurant sits on the waterfront on the south side of the Vis Port. The wood-fired pizzas have thin crust and the perfect amount of toppings. To accompany the pizza, they serve Dalmatian wine and Croatian craft beer, too!

 

Roki’s near Stiniva Beach

An excellent choice for an authentic Croatian meal, Roki’s offers traditional Dalmatian dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The peka – one of our favorite Croatian meals, which is a divine slow-cooked dish of local meat or fish under burning embers – is highly recommended.

Of course, you will also want to try the Croatian wine – as Roki’s sits on a vineyard that has been producing wine for more than 200 years.

 

Konoba Jastozera in Komiza

An atmospheric restaurant that is right on the water (literally!), Konoba Jastozera excels at seafood dishes – especially lobster. The food is prepared fresh and slow, so expect it to take a bit longer than other restaurants.

 

Robinson Restaurant Vis Island

A gem of a local restaurant hidden down an Old Town lane in Komiza, Robinson offers an array of delicious Croatian dishes at fair prices.

The salty sardines are a popular starter, as is the black risotto with cuttlefish. However, to really indulge, get the meat platter, which features a variety of local meats cooked to perfection over an open-flamed grill.

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Island Vis, Croatia Map

Our Vis Island map includes all the highlights of things to do in Vis. Use this link to Google Maps for our Vis Island, Croatia Map online. Visitors can also pick up a useful map of Vis Island, Croatia at the Tourist Information Office in Vis Town or in Komiza.

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Planning a Vis Day Trip from Split

Visitors who are based in Split and want to plan a day trip to Vis Island can do so using the local Split to Vis Ferry. Just note that while a day trip from Split to Vis is possible via ferry, how much time visitors will have to explore the island will depend on that day’s ferry schedule.

We are highlighting a couple of ways to plan the best Vis Island day trip on your own.

 

Short Off-Season Vis Day Trip

The first time we visited Vis was in the off-season. We were based in Split and just wanted to see the island on a Vis day trip.

Getting from Split to Vis was easy enough; the ferry to Vis Island from Split departs twice a day. We took the morning ferry that arrived at the Vis Town Port just past 1pm. The boat stays in port for about two hours.

In that time, we were only able to discover the sights in Vis Town. We took a walk along the water from one end of town to the other and navigated through Vis Town’s narrow lanes before we had to hop on the Vis Island ferry back to Split.

 

Summer Split to Vis Day Trip

During the summer months, the schedule changes to three ferries per day and – except on Tuesdays – departs Split earlier and Vis later, allowing travelers to plan a longer Vis day trip.

The morning ferry departs at 9:00am from Split (and arrives in Vis at 11:20am). The last boat back to Split departs Vis at 6:00pm (and arrives in Split at 8:20pm). The summer ferry from Split to Vis allows visitors to spend 6.5 hours on the island – which is perfect for a Vis day trip!

Unlike the short off-season day trip that only allows time in Vis Town, visitors could opt to spend one day in Komiza on a summer Vis day trip.

 

Hvar to Vis Day Trip

Unfortunately, a Vis day trip from Hvar is not possible by ferry. Visitors who want to go to Vis from Hvar in a single day will need to book an organized day trip from Hvar to Vis.

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More Vis, Croatia Travel Tips

Now that you know how to get to Vis Island, what to do on the island of Vis and how to plan a day trip, we have a few more tips that will help you plan your vacation!

 

When To Go To Croatia, Vis Island

Planning when to visit Vis Island, Croatia will likely depend on what things you want to do and see while you are there.

Not only is Vis, Croatia weather an important factor to consider, but it is also essential to understand just how seasonal the Island of Vis is. We are highlighting the pros and cons of visiting Vis Island in each season.

 

Summertime

Summer is arguably the best time to go to Vis Island. The weather is warm (hot), which is ideal for water activities and long days at the beach. However, travelers planning on hiking or biking will want to get an early start.

During the summer, everything in Vis is open. All the shops, restaurants, tours and activities will be available to tourists who visit in June, July and August.

However, summer is also the time when Vis will be crowded with tourists. Reservations for tours and restaurants may be difficult to come by and finding an affordable place to stay can be a challenge.

 

Autumn

Traveling to Vis Island in the fall is a fantastic time of year! Many places stay open through September and even into October, the weather is warm (but not hot) and it’s still a great time to be in or on the water. Plus, there are fewer fellow tourists to contend with.

That said, as traveling becomes more popular in the autumn, many accommodations and restaurants may still charge ‘high season’ prices.

 

Winter

Winter is a fantastic time to go to the Island of Vis if you want to experience local life on the island. The weather is ideal for taking long hikes, but it is typically too cold swimming or hanging out on beaches.

Most restaurants and shops close for the winter and tours are few and far between.

However, prices are at their lowest for accommodations. (The trick is to find a place that stays open during the winter!)

 

Spring

We love the spring weather on Island of Vis! It is warm and sunny during the day and a bit cooler in the evenings. It’s ideal for hiking, exploring and boating. Prices for places to stay in Vis are optimal in the springtime.

That said, not everything is open yet in spring. Furthermore, many restaurants and accommodations work on renovations during the spring months in preparation for the summer season (which can be noisy).  

 

Accommodation in Vis, Croatia

The first step to finding accommodations is determining where you want to stay in Vis, Croatia – either Vis or Komiza. Visitors can also find places to stay in one of the small and remote villages.

Most Vis Island accommodations are vacation homes, but there are a few hotels, villas and guesthouses on the island, as well. We are highlighting a few of the top picks.

 

Vis, Croatia Hotels

Hotels on Vis Island are few and far between. Before starting your search for a Vis Island hotel, use our tips for Finding the Best Hotels at the Best Price.

The best hotel on the Island of Vis is the San Giorgio in Vis Town. The Hotel San Giorgio features lush grounds, a fabulous (included) breakfast and a welcoming staff. Check rates and availability for your stay!

In Komiza, the basic Hotel Bisevo is just steps from Gusarica Beach with sea view rooms. However, the hotel is quite dated (some might say Yugo-nostalgic!) and prices tend to be on the higher side just because of the location.

 

Vis, Croatia Airbnb

Travelers looking for the best places to stay on Vis Island have a wide range of choices of holiday apartments. Airbnb is our go-to resource for finding accommodations that suit our needs, but travelers can use other online sites – like Booking.com – to find the perfect apartment rental in Vis.

 

Getting Around Vis Island

The best way to get around Vis is in a vehicle. Travelers arriving by ferry can bring a car or scooter (but it does cost more and should be booked in advance).

Visitors can also rent a scooter in Vis (which is ideal for 1 or 2 people) or get a car rental in Vis (which works better for 4-5 people in a group).

As we already mentioned, there is a bus on Vis Island with limited service between Vis Town and Komzia.

During our day trips to Vis Town and longer stay in Komiza, we opted to take the local bus, which limited us to seeing the just the sights in Vis Town and Komiza.

A car or Vis scooter rental is definitely a better option for greater exploration. Active travelers can opt to get a Vis bike rental and pedal around the island (but be aware, there are many hills!).

 

What To Pack for Your Trip to Vis, Croatia

Ready to start packing for your Vis trip? Great! We have a few suggestions of items you will want to make sure to pack. You can also use our packing hacks and complete packing list – or download your Free Packing Checklist here!

 

Shoes: Walking and Water

Travelers may be tempted to only pack a pair of flip flops for a beach vacation, but we recommend bringing a good pair of walking shoes, as well. Some of the remote beach coves require short treks and it’s best to wear a good pair of travel shoes while exploring the towns.

I like to wear lightweight sneakers and Kris wears Merrell trail shoes for everyday exploration.

Furthermore, water shoes are a good idea for travelers who want to take a swim in the sea. The small pebbles, the occasional piece of glass and the spiky sea urchins are no fun for bare feet!

 

Travel Camera

Vis Island is incredibly picturesque – and you will want to bring a good travel camera to capture the beauty of it all!

We use a DSLR Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens. It is ideal for beginner photographers – as it is an affordable travel camera and comes with heaps of accessories.

 

Sun Protection

The sun on Vis Island is strong! Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen (it’s expensive on the island), a wide-brimmed travel hat and polarized sunglasses.

 

Croatia Travel Insurance

We hope your trip is nothing but smooth sailing…but travel insurance may help in case of any hiccups along the way. Not only can travel insurance cover delayed flights or lost luggage, but it could be helpful if you get injured or sick while traveling abroad. Check the affordable plans at World Nomads.

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More Croatia Travel Tips

Visiting other Top Destinations in Croatia? Fantastic! Use the advice in our detailed guides and insider tips.

• Find out What To Do in Dubrovnik
• Use our helpful Self Guided Split Walking Tour
• Plan the Best Things To Do in Makarska
• Spend some time in Sibenik
• Explore the Croatian capital city of Zagreb
• Fall in love with Rovinj
• Venture off the beaten path to Osijek
• Experience the best of Zadar

 

Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page!

 

 

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