The Ultimate Guide to Island-Hopping Croatia's Best Islands

Picture turquoise waters, charming old towns, and sun-kissed beaches. Island hopping in Croatia is a dream come true, with incredible locations scattered in the Adriatic Sea. Whether you’re searching for secluded swim spots, vibrant nightlife, or historic sites, this guide to the best islands in Croatia will answer all your questions! 

How To Get Around Croatia’s Islands

Island hop using ferries

The best islands in Croatia are accessible by public ferry! If you’re island-hopping via the ferries, you’ll want to start and end your trip from one of the major cities - such as Split or Dubrovnik - for a simple travel experience. 

From Split, you can easily island hop to Brac, Korcula, Hvar and Vis. Meanwhile, Dubrovnik has regular ferries to Korcula, Sipan and Mljet. For many of the islands, you’ll have to travel back to the mainland between islands and transfer to another ferry for your next destination. Whilst there is a quieter schedule during the winter months, during the summer you can expect as many ferry departures as 5 a day. 

Join a group tour

The easiest way to hop between the best islands in Croatia is on a group tour! Jump aboard a live-on boat and sail paradise, with no need to travel back to the mainland between dreamy destinations. Your expert tour guide will have your Croatia itinerary sorted for you and you’ll travel with a ready-made group of friends. Get excited for tranquil mornings on the deck, midday swim spots, dinner in hidden lanes, and drinks in lively bars - that’s pretty much how your life will look on a Croatia group tour!

The Best Islands to Visit in Croatia 

Brac 

Great for: Beaches  🌊

You’ll recognise Brac from its iconic Zlatni Rat beach (aka Golden Horn beach), an iconic spot in Croatia where its shape is ever-changing. Moving with the sea, the sandbank extends around 400 metres into the ocean. Rich with natural beauty, spend your time sunbathing on the golden sands or challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Vidova Gora, ending in unbeatable views. 

Korcula 

Great for: Historic Towns 🏛️ 

This Croatian island has one of the most preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic, evident by its charming cobblestone streets brimming with history. Often compared to Dubrovnik, but quieter, there’s plenty to explore as you stroll around the old town, grab a refreshing drink on the waterfront and swim in the blue sea. 

Hvar

Great for: Partying 🍹

Hvar is filled with glamorous beach bars that’ll have you dancing until sunrise. There’s no better place to sip cocktails with your travel friends. You could even seize the day and hop on a ferry to Carpe Diem - Croatia’s party island! A classy beach club by day, and lively nightclub by night, Carpe Diem is a must-visit in Croatia if you love a night out. 

If you don’t fancy partying, one of the best viewpoints in Croatia can be found at Hvar’s Spanish Fortress. The steep but scenic walk-up rewards you with out-of-this-world coastal views; you’ll want to bring your camera!

Mljet 

Great for: Nature 🌲

Home to the unspoilt Mljet National Park and only one hotel, the majority of Mljet is a forest! Enjoy a slice of tranquillity as this Croatian island offers beautiful cycling trails, saltwater lakes and historic ruins. The best way to roam this island is with a pair of wheels, so make sure you rent a bike. Uncover one of the many secret bays around the island, you won’t be able to resist a dip in the sparkling waters. 

Our Croatia Island-Hopping Itineraries 

Ultimate Croatia

Day 1

Welcome to Croatia! Jump on the airport bus shuttle to our centrally located hostel where you can either chill, or head out to get your first taste of the historic city. This evening, meet the rest of the group over dinner and drinks.

Day 2 

Have some free time to explore Split, ahead of boarding our premium boat. Tuck into a three-course lunch before stopping at a fabulous swimming spot. As we cruise into Makarska's beautiful bay, you'll have to pinch yourself to check you're not dreaming. Grab a beer and a pizza and kick back in one of the town's open-air cafés. 

Day 3

Sail to the lushly forested island of Mljet where we'll anchor up in a hidden bay to swim, before a delicious three-course lunch of locally sourced food. This afternoon, explore Mljet by bike, then spend the evening under the stars on board.

Day 4

Today's destination is Game of Thrones megastar, Dubrovnik. Get to know the atmospheric Old Town with a walking tour, before a kayaking session. Wash the salt from your hair back on board, then head into the city, for drinks, dinner and top-drawer clubs.

Day 5

Drift past silvery olive groves and lush vineyards before we find the bluest-of-blue spots to swim. Later, we'll drop anchor in the sleepy fishing village of Trstenik. Explore the gorgeous beaches and soak up the real Croatia, before dressing up tonight for a Captain's Dinner on board.

Day 6 

Spend another morning cruising through turquoise waters before docking in the Venetian town of Korcula. See some of the highlights of 'Little Dubrovnik' on a walking tour, before exploring at your own pace. Just make sure you're on the waterfront in time for sundowners.

Day 7 

We're sailing to Croatia's most luxurious island today. We will take a walk to the Spanish Fortress, before heading to one of Hvar's iconic beach clubs where we'll chill with a cocktail as the sun sets and the DJ turns up the beats. Hvar's nightlife is legendary, so be prepared to go large tonight! 

Day 8 

We will make our way to Split, after taking a morning dip in the sea. Spend the afternoon on a guided walking tour of the city and then head off for some souvenir shopping, sightseeing or chilling on the beach.

Day 9

Head to Krka National Park to check out its epic series of waterfalls. Take some enviable pics for the 'gram and admire the scenery. We will grab lunch in the beautiful old town of Skradin before heading back to Split for one last evening together over a mouth-watering dinner and drinks - živjeli! 

Day 10

It's time to make our way back to the airport. You'll be heading home with a cracking tan, some incredible memories, and a gang of new friends though! See you soon. 

Croatia Sailing

Day 1

Let's go island-hopping! We'll meet this morning in Split before boarding the boat we'll get to know as a second home over the next week. After an orientation tour around Hvar's historic and nightlife hotspots, enjoy a locally sourced lunch onboard and explore the ancient highlights of Hvar. By the time we sit down for dinner, you will feel bonded with the group and excited about all the places we will visit!  

Day 2

Indulge in a lazy morning on the sundeck, before filling your plates for breakfast... we could get used to this! Familiarise yourself with the refreshing sea views and everchanging nature with a book in hand or while chatting with your new friends. Dig into an optional barbecue lunch, where you can tuck into meats, vegetables, salads and Croatian fries prepped to perfection. Once we arrive in Korčula, the afternoon and evening are yours to explore its fortified walls, variety of beaches and mesmerising Old Town. 

Day 3 

After breakfast and lunch onboard, we'll arrive in Dubrovnik for the afternoon. While you're welcome to explore Dubrovnik by yourself, you can also join us for an optional walking tour led by an expert local guide who knows all the secrets hidden in its walls. Tonight's an amazing chance to explore Dubrovnik's nightlife scene inside the Urban District. Dubrovnik is spoilt for choices when it comes to restaurants, bars and cafes! 

Day 4

Ready for an entire day to explore Dubrovnik? There is so much you can do today, from exploring the winding streets of the Old Town to visiting iconic Game of Thrones filming locations like the Jesuit Steps. If you're in an adventurous mood, then why not join us for some optional kayaking around the city walls? Everyone will be eager to share their stories from today, so tonight will be an exciting evening onboard!

Day 5

En route to Trstenik, we'll sail past the enchanting Elafiti Islands. After breakfast and lunch onboard, we'll arrive in Trstenik as the sun sets over this beautiful village. This evening, we have an optional visit to a family-run winery with a 300-year tradition, before joining us for the Captain's Dinner. Dig into a delightful three-course meal, while sharing a fun time to remember with the group! 

Day 6 

Today we'll leave Trstenik behind in search of Makarska. After swimming in the open sea, we'll arrive in Makarska and give you free rein to explore today. From the lively Old Town to the breathtaking beaches and Biokovo mountain range, Makarska's natural beauty is unbelievably diverse. Whether you're in a beachy mood, curious to check out Makarska's variety of hiking trails or explore the nightlife, enjoy a free afternoon and evening!  

Day 7 

This afternoon, we'll visit the extraordinary Diocletian's Palace: a UNESCO World Heritage site that's bursting with life. Afterwards, there will be an optional walking tour of Split with a historical twist; learn all about the influential women who shaped this city, from authors to activists. Then you can tag onto a supplementary farewell dinner back inside the Diocletian's Palace! Tonight we'll toast to the end of our trip and celebrate our final night out as a group. 

Day 8 

Doviđenja Croatia! Enjoy a final breakfast with your group before checking out of your cabin and saying goodbye to our boat that has taken us across the Dalmatian coast. 

The Best Time to go Island Hopping in Croatia

Croatia Island Hopping in Spring

As the Adriatic Sea begins to warm and the islands boast a laid-back atmosphere, spring (March to May) is an underrated time for island hopping Croatia’s best spots. Expect slightly cooler, but still pleasantly warm, temperatures and budget-friendly prices, ideal for soaking up the authentic charm of popular islands. This is a perfect time for hiking and cycling the peaceful trails. 

Croatia Island Hopping in Summer

It’s easy to see why summer (June to September) is Croatia’s peak season. The weather is gloriously sunny, the sea is warm and welcoming, and the towns come alive at night. Summer is a great time to visit for a beach holiday, or to explore Croatia’s party islands. Plus, ferries run more regularly during the summer months.  

Croatia Island Hopping in Autumn

Visit Croatia in autumn (September - November) and reap the best of both worlds. Enjoy the warm weather with a glass of fresh wine - it is grape harvest season after all! You’ll discover fewer tourists and still enjoy the endearing atmosphere of this beautiful country. 

Croatia Island Hopping in Winter

Winter (December to March) may not be the best season for island hopping in Croatia, but it is a great time to visit Croatia’s picturesque mainland towns, like Dubrovnik and Split. These iconic destinations are brimming with history and culture, and a great option for a winter getaway. Stroll quaint streets and soak up ocean views.

 

The best way to enjoy island hopping in Croatia is on a group trip with Gap 360! Check out all our Croatia trips now.