Table of Content
Split – Hvar: A blend of history and nightlife
Split – Brač: Beaches, adventure, and authentic villages
Split – Vis: A hidden gem with natural wonders
Split – Korčula: The island of legends
Split – Šolta: A peaceful escape near the city
Tips for planning your island hopping from Split
FAQ – Split island hopping
Conclusion
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If you are planning your holiday in Split, island hopping is one of the best experiences you can have. The Dalmatian coast is surrounded by beautiful islands, each with its own charm, history, and natural wonders. From sandy beaches and hidden coves to historic towns and vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone. The best part is that all of these islands are easily accessible from Split, making it the perfect starting point for your adventure.
We guide you through the top 5 island hopping routes from Split – including where to go, what to see, and how to get there.
Split – Hvar: A blend of history and nightlife
One of the most popular routes for island hopping from Split is the trip to Hvar, often called the sunniest island in Croatia. The island is famous for its glamorous nightlife, but it also offers much more: lavender fields, UNESCO heritage, and crystal-clear waters. The town of Hvar itself is a charming mix of Venetian architecture, vibrant squares, and a lively harbor full of yachts.
Getting to Hvar is easy, as there are multiple daily ferries and catamarans from Split. The journey takes about one to two hours depending on the route. If you want more flexibility, speedboats and organized tours are also available.
How to get to Hvar from Split:
- Travel Time – the journey by catamaran to Hvar Town is a quick trip, taking about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes. If you’re traveling with a car, the ferry goes to Stari Grad on Hvar, which takes longer, typically between 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours and 20 minutes.
- Approximate price – A one-way ticket for a foot passenger on a catamaran ranges from around 6€ to 26€, depending on the season and operator. Fares for the car ferry are similar for passengers, but a car ticket adds a significant cost.
Highlights of Hvar include:
- The impressive Fortica Fortress with panoramic views over the Pakleni Islands.
- The famous Pakleni archipelago, ideal for a short boat trip.
- Local cuisine and wines in traditional konobas.
After a full day of exploring, you can return to Split in the evening or spend a night on the island.
Split – Brač: Beaches, adventure, and authentic villages
Brač is another must-visit island, located just an hour by ferry from Split. It is home to one of the most famous beaches in Croatia – Zlatni Rat in Bol. Known for its unique shape that changes with the wind and currents, this beach is a paradise for swimmers and windsurfers alike.
But Brač is not only about Zlatni Rat. The island has a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The interior of the island is dotted with old stone villages, olive groves, and vineyards. For active travelers, climbing to Vidova Gora, the highest peak of all Adriatic islands, offers breathtaking views.
How to get to Brač from Split:
- Ferries from Split to Supetar run frequently throughout the day.
- From Supetar, you can explore the northern side of the island or take a bus/car to Bol.
- Travel time: This is one of the shortest and most frequent routes. The ferry ride to Supetar (the main port on Brač) takes just about 50 minutes
- Approximate price: A one-way ticket for a foot passenger on the ferry is very affordable, costing around €6.50 in season. If you’re bringing a standard car, the price is significantly higher, approximately €15 to €30.
Why visit Brač:
- Perfect for families and couples looking for both relaxation and adventure.
- A balance of authentic Dalmatian culture and modern tourism.
Split – Vis: A hidden gem with natural wonders
For those looking for a less crowded and more authentic island experience, Vis is the perfect choice. Once a military base and closed to foreign visitors until 1989, Vis has preserved its natural beauty and traditional lifestyle. It is further away from Split, with ferry rides taking about two hours, but the journey is absolutely worth it.
Vis is most famous for the nearby Blue Cave on Biševo island, where sunlight creates a magical blue reflection inside the cave. Many organized tours include both Vis and Biševo in a single trip. The island is also known for stunning beaches like Stiniva Cove, often listed among the most beautiful in Europe.
How to get to Vis from Split:
- Travel Time: The ferry journey to Vis is longer, taking approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Approximate Price: A ticket for a foot passenger on the ferry is about €9 one-way. A ticket for a standard car can cost between €40 and €50, depending on the season.
Top experiences on Vis:
- Wine tasting in local vineyards
- Visiting the fishing village of Komiža
- Exploring hidden coves and military tunnels
Because of its distance, a trip to Vis is best planned as a full-day tour or even an overnight stay.
Split – Korčula: The island of legends
Korčula is often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik” because of its medieval old town surrounded by stone walls. It is also famous as the birthplace of Marco Polo, and you can even visit the house that is said to have belonged to his family. The narrow streets, beautiful squares, and sea views make Korčula Town a must-see destination.
The island also has many vineyards producing top-quality wines, such as Grk and Pošip, which you can taste in local wineries. Beyond the town, the island offers sandy beaches, traditional villages, and scenic cycling routes.
Getting to Korčula from Split takes longer than to other islands, but fast ferries are available. The journey lasts about 2.5 hours, and you can even combine it with a stop in Hvar along the way.
How to get to Korčula from Split:
- Travel Time: This is a longer journey, so it’s a better choice for an overnight stay. The catamaran trip from Split to Korčula Town usually takes between 2 hours and 20 minutes and 3 hours and 40 minutes, depending on if it makes stops at other islands.
- Approximate Price: A one-way ticket for a foot passenger on a catamaran will generally cost between €8 and €12, , or €50 to 70€ for vehicle.
Why you should visit Korčula:
- Unique medieval old town with authentic charm.
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Perfect for travelers who love history, wine, and stunning views.
Staying in Split allows you to keep a flexible schedule – you can plan Korčula as a longer day trip or part of a multi-island route.
Split – Šolta: A peaceful escape near the city
If you don’t want to spend too much time traveling, Šolta is the closest island to Split. The ferry ride takes just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a short escape from the city crowds. Despite being so close, Šolta has kept its peaceful charm, with small fishing villages, clear waters, and untouched nature.
The island is perfect for cycling, hiking, or simply enjoying traditional food and local olive oil. Šolta is also becoming popular among divers, thanks to its rich underwater world.
How to get to Korčula from Split:
- Travel Time: Similar to Brač, Šolta is very close to Split. The ferry ride takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour.
- Approximate Price: The price for a foot passenger is one of the most affordable at around €5 to €6 one-way. The price for a standard car is approximately €18 to €25.
Reasons to choose Šolta:
- Quick and easy trip from Split.
- Great for families or travelers looking for a relaxing day.
- Authentic island lifestyle without large tourist crowds.
Tips for planning your island hopping from Split
Before you start your adventure, here are some practical tips:
- Book your ferries in advance during peak season (July and August), as routes can sell out quickly.
- Check schedules – always check the ferry schedules as they can change depending on the season and day of the week. Websites like Jadrolinija or Kapetan Luka are the main operators.
- Start early in the morning to make the most of your day trips.
- Bring comfortable shoes and swimwear, as most islands are perfect for both sightseeing and swimming.
- For longer routes (Vis, Korčula), consider an overnight stay.
- If you’re short on time but still want to experience the magic of the Croatian islands, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect choice for a quick, unforgettable trip. Located between the islands of Drvenik Veli and Krknjaši, the Blue Lagoon is a true natural wonder.
FAQ – Split island hopping
When packing, think about comfort and convenience. A lightweight backpack is often easier to manage than a large suitcase. Essential items include swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes for exploring towns and nature, and light clothing. Don’t forget your camera, and it’s always a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit and a reusable water bottle.
For families, Brač and Šolta are excellent choices. Brač is home to Zlatni Rat beach, which is safe for swimming and perfect for kids who enjoy water activities. The island also has many family-friendly restaurants and easy hiking routes. Šolta, being so close to Split, is ideal for a peaceful day trip with children. It offers calm fishing villages, clear shallow waters, and a relaxed environment without crowds. Both islands provide a mix of convenience and authentic charm, making them great for families staying in Split.
The island of Hvar is considered the best destination for nightlife near Split. Its main town is famous for stylish beach clubs, lively bars, and vibrant summer parties that attract visitors from all over the world. During the day, you can relax on beautiful beaches or visit the nearby Pakleni Islands, and in the evening enjoy cocktails and dancing by the sea. If you prefer quieter evenings, other islands like Brač or Šolta offer a more relaxed atmosphere with traditional taverns and local wine.
The best way to go island hopping from Split is by taking regular ferries, catamarans, or organized boat tours. Ferries operated by Jadrolinija are the most affordable and reliable option, connecting Split with nearby islands such as Brač, Hvar, Vis, Korčula, and Šolta. Catamarans are faster and perfect for day trips, while private speedboats or guided tours offer more flexibility if you want to combine multiple islands in one day.
You can book your ferry tickets online through the official websites of the main ferry operators, Jadrolinija and Kapetan Luka. It’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to travel in July or August, or if you’re taking a car ferry. You can also buy tickets directly at the Split ferry port, but be prepared for potential long queues, especially during peak hours.
The best time for island hopping from Split is during the shoulder seasons, specifically May, June, and September. The weather is warm and sunny, but the crowds are smaller than in the peak season of July and August. August. You’ll find more affordable prices for accommodation and ferries, and the islands are less crowded, allowing for a more authentic and relaxed experience. July and August are perfect for those who love a lively atmosphere and don’t mind the higher prices and larger crowds.
Where to Stay in Split?
Conclusion
Island hopping from Split is an unforgettable experience, giving you the chance to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in the Adriatic. From glamorous Hvar and famous Brač to authentic Vis, legendary Korčula, and peaceful Šolta, each island has something unique to offer.
Start planning your island hopping journey today and make the most of your stay in Split!
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