11 Best Islands Near Split To Visit | Split Island Hopping in Croatia!
Split is one of the most popular places in Croatia mainly for being a wonderful town itself but also because it’s the springboard for visiting the gorgeous islands in the Adriatic Sea.
Below are many beautiful islands in Croatia near Split that provide a range of interests and activities so you can pick the best ones for you!
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Where is Split?
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Split is a city in mainland Croatia on the Eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea known as the Dalmatian Coast.
Things to do in Split include tasting excellent Croatian cuisine in the many restaurants, visiting the Game of Thrones museum, hiking Marjan Hill, explore the old town, going on boat tours and of course finding the best nearby islands to visit. I recommend spending 2-3 days in Split itself before heading off to explore the islands but if you’re strapped for time perhaps have 1 day dedicated to Split and then do day trips to the islands.
Islands Near Split Croatia Map:
How to Get to The Split Croatia Islands
By ferry of course!
Most ferries to the islands around Split depart from the same harbour in the town known as Port of Split or Riva Harbour. The main ferry companies include Croatia Ferries, Jadrolinija, Kapetan Luka, and G&V Line (among others).
Compare ferry options online to ensure the best prices, times and availability here:
11 Best Islands Near Split Croatia
Read on for the 11 best islands to visit in Croatia from Split!
Brac
Submitted by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
Split to Brac Time: 1 hour
Brac is a Croatian island located in the central part of the Adriatic Sea. It is the largest island in the central Dalmatian group and it’s located around 30 km from the city of Split.
Brac’s average weather is Mediterranean with hot summers and mild winters. The island enjoys more than 2,600 hours of sunshine per year and the sea temperature is warm enough for swimming from late May to late September.
Getting to Brac from Split is very easy, it can be done by a ferry or a catamaran, and the trip usually takes around 1 hour. There are several ferry lines operating between Split and Brac, which run several times a day. The ferry ride costs around €10-€15 one way, depending on the season.
There are plenty of things to do on Brac, which makes it a great destination for travellers of all ages. One of the best things to do include renting your own boat on Brac such as a traditional Dalmatian vessel to explore the island, go snorkelling and drive the boat yourself!
The island’s most famous beach is Zlatni Rat, known for its white pebbles and crystal clear waters. The island is also known for its many hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the island and its surroundings. Another popular activity is rock climbing, Brac is home to one of the oldest climbing schools in Europe, it’s a perfect place to learn the sport or improve your skills.
Drvenik Veli
Submitted by Bradley from Dream Big Travel Far
Split to Drvenik Veli Time: 45 minutes
Despite being one of the cheapest European countries, Croatia teems with some of the most beautiful islands and sceneries in Europe. For instance, Drvenik Veli, one of the closest islands off Split Croatia. It’s a small island only 25 km away from Split and it’s so easy to hop on a 45-minute bus ride there.
Inhabited by just around 150 people, its history dates as far back as the 13th century when it was known under a different name. You can see pieces of the old culture and traditions still intact throughout the island, thanks to the population size that has mainly remained unchanged. It’s the perfect place to immerse in the tranquil Mediterranean atmosphere of old. Today, the residents rely on the fishing and agriculture industries, while the bountiful olive trees become an important source of olive oil.
Drvenik Veli’s most famous attraction has to be Blue Lagoon, a sandy cove ensconced by clear blue seas. There are other coves just as beautiful, such as Solinska cove and Grabule cove. Finally, the coastline flaunts sandy and pebble beaches alike, making it a dreamy destination to explore.
Find a tour from Split that includes Drvenik Veli here!
Hvar
Submitted by Lara from The Best Travel Gifts
Ferry Croatia Split to Hvar Time: 1 – 2 hours
One of the most popular and a beautiful island near split Croatia is Hvar. The fourth largest island (10 by 67 km) is just off the coast of Split. The main reasons to visit the island include its stunning beaches, beautiful nature, cute towns, and UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain. The latter is an agricultural landscape that was first shaped by the Ancient Greeks and has stayed mostly intact ever since.
You can visit the island year-round, and due to its mild Mediterranean climate, winter months are relatively warm (around 9 degrees), whereas the summer months are a pleasant 25 degrees, with a refreshing ocean breeze.
From Hvar, you can take two ferries. One to Stari Grad which takes about 105 minutes and one to Drvenik, which takes only 25 minutes. On both ferries, you can take your car, which is really nice to explore the island, the towns, the wineries and farms on the Stari Grad Plains, the peninsulas, and all its secluded beaches. Though you can also rent a scooter on the island if you don’t have a car.
Stari Grad and Hvar Town are two must-stops while you’re on the island, this is where you will find most restaurants and hip bars. Though even in the larger Hvar Town, you will still feel the authentic laid-back island vibe. Jelsa is a great small town if you’re looking for an even more authentic and relaxed experience.
The best things to do on Hvar include hitting the secluded beaches, renting your own boat, finding the instagrammable lavender fields, visit the Spanish fortress and joining an olive oil tasting tour.
Korcula
Submitted by Anjali from Cheerful Trails
Split to Korcula Time: 2.5 hours
Are you up for a scenic ferry ride to a gorgeous island? If so, set yourself sailing on a ferry from the harbor of Split and head to Korcula island. The journey itself is mesmerising. The island features plenty of soft sandy beaches offering seclusion and fantastic views of the clear waters.
For things to do, try one of the following:
- The walled streets of Korcula’s old town welcome you with many adorable stores, medieval buildings, wine bars and restaurants.
- The old town is lovingly known as “Mini Dubrovnik” as it gives you the feel of the reminiscing history and charm of the city.
- For impressive 360 degree panoramic views of the old town, head to the Saint Mark’s Bell Tower. This is the highest viewing point in Korcula Old Town.
- Perched over the 15th-century Zakerjan Tower, Massimo Cocktail Bar is an amazing place to try out a few drinks and enjoy the beautiful views of the town.
- The Luka Korculanska beach located on the west side of the old town is best for soaking in views of sunsets overlooking the whitewashed buildings and sailing boats.
- Taste the most delicious white wine from the vineyards of Lumbarda by joining a Wine Tasting Tour!
The best time to visit Korcula is from April till September. The weather is warm, pleasant and enjoyable during these months. Korcula is one of the most underrated and lovely gems of Croatia and definitely worth your visit.
Mljet
Submitted by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels
Split to Mljet Time: 3 hours
Looking for islands to visit from Split? Make sure to hop over to the beautiful island of Mljet.
Mljet is located southeast of Split and it takes about 3-4 hours to get there by ferry. Three ferries depart from Split to Mljet per day and the cost is €30.50 – €44.00.
The best time to visit Mljet is between May to September when the temperatures average 21-28 degrees celsius. During other months of the year the temperature typically stays above 10 degrees.
Mljet itself is known for its two lakes. While visiting the island rent a bike near the ferry terminal and go for a ride around the larger of the two lakes. This takes about an hour at a leisurely pace, and the views of the gorgeous and sparkling blue water are absolutely worth it. When you’ve finished your bike ride go for a swim in the smaller of the two lakes to cool off. It’s the perfect way to spend your time on the beautiful island of Mljet!
Book a private roundtrip tour to Mljet from Split here
Pag
Submitted by Abbey from Trips on Abbey Road
Split to Pag Time: 2 hours
One of the best Islands to visit near Split is the Island of Pag. This little island is about 2 hours away and there are two ways to get there. If you are renting a car, it is a short 2 hours drive down the coast. There is also a bus that takes the route every day, but it takes a bit longer at 3 and a half hours. Either way, you will enjoy the scenic route down the Croatian coastline.
There is plenty to do around the island of Pag. It has beautiful beaches, stunning biking and hiking routes, and seaside restaurants. And, to top it all off they also have one of the best party beaches in all of Croatia. Zcre Beach is known as the ‘Ibiza’ of Croatia and they put on beachfront festivals almost every weekend in the Summer. If you stay in the Main town of Novalja, you will not be able to hear the music, but still be a short drive away!
But Pag Island is known worldwide for something else. The Cheese! Pag actually translates to the word cheese. There are two different factories you can tour where you will learn about what makes the cheese so special. One of the best ways to discover the island is to join a Pag sightseeing and Cheese tour. No matter what kind of island vacation you are looking to have Pag Island is one of the best Croatia islands near Split to visit!
Related Post: Guide to The Best Food Tour in Zadar (featuring Pag Cheese)!
Solta
Submitted by PlacesofJuma
Split to Solta Time: 1 hour
Solta in Croatia is definitely one of the absolute most beautiful islands near Split. It is a small, relatively undiscovered jewel in Dalmatia and a real insider tip for a unique trip. Incredibly beautiful is especially the picturesque flair and the wonderful idyll that surrounds this island pearl.
Getting to Solta is easy by taking the ferry from the port in Split to Rogač. A catamaran or car ferry runs several times a day. The trip takes only about 1 hour and so in no time, you are on the dream island from Split.
You still find the romantic Dalmatian fishing villages, which enchant with the old stone houses. But also the interior of Solta is enchanting because here you visit dreamlike villages in an extremely charming landscape.
One of the most beautiful villages on Solta is the coastal village of Stomorksa. The fascinating harbour with stone houses dates back to the 16th century, and the beaches around the resort are also picturesque. The village of Maslinica in the far west of the island is also worth a visit. Here you will enjoy a beautiful marina and the Heritage Hotel Martinis Marchi, one of the absolute best hotels on the island.
Famous is also the local honey of the island Solta, which is known as particularly healthy and healing. In addition, you can taste delicious local food in many restaurants on the island, but unique is the small konoba called Momčin Dvor boasting fabulous grilled dishes.
Near to Solta is the famous Blue Lagoon and underwater shipwreck that tourists flock to discover. Book this tour to Solta Island, Blue Lagoon and Shipwreck including lunch, drinks and snorkelling equipment!
Trogir
Submitted by Noel from Travel Photo Discovery
Split to Trogir Time: 30 minutes
One of the easiest road trips to do from Split, Croatia is along the Dalmatian coastline to the island of Trogir. Just separated from the mainland with some small bridges, Trojir is located just off the coastline but doesn’t allow any cars on the island so it is mostly a pedestrian walking city.
This historic city is filled with architectural wonders that spans the many different nations that ruled the island from the inspiring and beautiful works of the Sarecens, Romans, Venetians, Ottoman rulers to the Hapsburgs and then the Croatian rulers.
Trogir is a fun city filled with narrow streets that spill out into beautiful squares and restaurants, bars and shops that line all the public venues. There’s even a nice waterfront promenade that hosts historic ships and beautiful vistas from the many towers that you can climb and capture some amazing views. You should explore the city walls and other historic sites like the Duke’s Palace, Cathedral, Carmelengo Fortress to the city loggia and other beautiful structures.
After all that touring, make sure find that perfect restaurant along the waterfront area. On many of the Croatian islands near Split, this is an amazing experience to indulge in a nice and long Dalmatian meal of fresh seafoods and other local dishes.
Get From Split to Trogir (& Back) Here!
Ugljan Island
Submitted by Michelle C of IntentionalTravelers.com
Split to Ugljan Time: 2.5 hours
Ugljan island is about 2 1/2 hours from Split and usually has a pleasant temperature year-round. The island averages 20°C to 26°C.
To get to Ugljan (pronounced oogly-yawn) from Split, drive North via toll roads for the quickest journey, or take the slower coastal route for more scenery. Once in Zadar, take the 25-minute ferry to Preko. The island has a handful of small towns along its coast, an abandoned hilltop fortress in the middle, and plenty of unpaved roads criss-crossing through olive groves for mountain biking and long walks. While you can explore some of the area by foot, you’ll have many more options with either a bicycle or car.
Unless you have a vehicle, we recommend either conquering the fortress or the coastal towns, rather than attempting to do it all in one day. For a simple and scenic day trip, follow the main, paved road that goes all the way from Preko town up to St. Michael fortress (or one of the unpaved roads if you feel more adventurous).
There are several vacation rentals available on Ugjlian as well, for overnight stays. You could also stay in Zadar or combine your island adventure with a visit to one of the nearby National Parks.
Vis
Submitted by Nausheen from Globe Gazers
Ferry from Split to Vis Island: 2.5 hours
Only a couple hours away from Split by ferry you’ll find the romantic and calm Vis Island. The especially unique aspect of Vis is that it only opened up to tourists in 1989, as it was previously used as a Yugoslav military base. In recent years, it was also used as the Mamma Mia filming location!
Compared to many of the other islands near Split, Vis Island is less of a party destination. but perfect for anyone who wants some rest and relaxation in stunning surroundings. It’s popular for honeymooners too, so look no further than this honeymoon guide of Vis Island, Croatia including what to do and where to eat when you visit.
The best way to arrive to Vis Island from Split is by boat. You can take a catamaran (1.5 hours), ferry (2.5 hours or speedboat (1 hour). Once on the island you can visit beaches (Stiniva Bay is the most popular) or take a boat tour to the nearby blue caves.
The average weather on Vis Island is quite pleasant year round. In Winter months temperatures drop as low as approximately 10 degrees celsius, and Summers are hot with temperatures usually in the high 20s.
(Note from Shireen: This is, in my opinion, the most beautiful and best islands in Croatia).
Zlarin Island
Submitted by Steve from The Trip Goes On
Split to Zlarin Time: 1 – 2 hours
Zlarin is a tiny island off the Dalmatian coast 50 miles (80 km) north of Split. The island is famed for its red coral, picturesque village marina and some excellent restaurants.
There are lots of great things to do on Zlarin Island from relaxing at the many beaches with crystal clear waters to hiring kayaks, paddle boards and bicycles to explore the island and its amazing coastline.
There is even a climbing wall on the south of the island for those looking for a more adrenalin-fuelled time. Nearby attractions include the impressive St Nicholas Fortress in the middle of the channel between Zlarin and Sibenik on the mainland.
Zlarin benefits from long, hot summers and is somewhat protected from the worst of the storms crossing the Adriatic. Summer temperatures are around 30 degrees celsius and it’s possible to swim here from May to October.
There are hourly buses to Sibenik from Split which take 90 minutes. There are four to five daily ferries from Sibenik to the island and the journey time is just 30 minutes (and very scenic).
One of the best things about Zlarin is that cars are banned so if you’re looking for the ultimate relaxing escape from the trappings of modern life, then this is the place for you.
Croatia Island Tours from Split
There are various tours of the islands from Split both group or private tours. This is a luxury private island tour for 12 people visiting four islands on a speedboat with a guide. The most popular options are on group tours that a re regular, efficient and reliable. Try one of these:
If you prefer staying on the Croatian mainland, there are plenty of other day trips from Split including Zadar, Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes, Sibenik, or Krka National Park. You could even visit another country as a day trip by travelling to Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovia!
Now you’ve got the low down on the best Croatia Split islands, which one will you visit? I know my favourite is Vis!
Best Croatian Islands Split: Save Me!
