Dalmatia is the name given to the western Adriatic coast of Croatia, which runs roughly from the island of Rab (which is situated directly below the Istrian peninsula) to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. On the many islands dotting the coast, travellers may experience everything from quaint mountain towns and historic cities to secluded beaches and sprawling vineyards. This is a quick tour of the top five islands in the vicinity, including Hvar, Bra, Korula, Vis, and Mljet.
Go island hopping off the coast of the Dalmatian Republic
The five largest islands are Hvar, Bra, Korula, Vis, and Mljet, and they all offer something special. One of these islands is where most visitors will touch down. Ferries run regularly between Split and Dubrovnik along the coast, stopping at almost every port along the route during the high season. From Split, you can reach the islands of Vis, Bra, and Hvar by ferry, while from Dubrovnik, you can reach the islands of Korula and Mljet by ferry.
An aerial image of Korula
Its proximity to Dubrovnik has earned Korula’s main town the nickname “Little Dubrovnik.” Its fortifications, which include gates and towers, have been carefully preserved since the 14th century. Its claim to prominence, however, may rest only on the fact that it was the place where Marco Polo was born (although that fact is still somewhat disputed). However, the Kua Marka Pola, which has been there since the 17th century, is a fantastic complement to your trip and provides an extra layer of mystery to the intriguing explorer’s story. Choosing the The Best of the Dalmatian Coast Croatia destinations is essential here.
Hvar Island’s beautiful harbour
Hvar is like Korula’s glitzy, fun-loving big sister. It’s famous for its raucous nightlife, beautiful beaches, and four sites included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Of all the Dalmatian Islands, Hvar is the one that receives the most tourists. Hvar, the capital city, is sometimes called the “French Riviera of the East” because to the abundance of luxury yachts that dock in the town’s luxurious harbour. Stari Grad, the city’s second district, offers a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of the main part of town with its quaint squares, meandering roads, and historic stone residences.
Is Hvar on your itinerary?
This sizable island is not far from Split and might gain in popularity as a result of its convenient location. In addition to its convenience, though, this island is also home to some of the country’s loveliest beaches, a wealth of historic buildings, and a locally sourced material that has achieved international renown. This island is home to some of the best beaches in the Adriatic Sea, and Bol is an absolute must-mention when discussing the island’s shores.
An idyllic island community on the island of Vis
The Blue Cave on the nearby, much smaller island of Bievo is perhaps the most visited site on Vis. The cave can only be seen from the sea, therefore visitors must take a boat trip from Vis or even Split to get there. The light from the sun shining through a sea cave gives off an ethereal blue hue, thus the cave’s moniker. Visit the Issa Archaeological Museum immediately if you care about culture. One of the largest collections of Hellenistic artefacts in Croatia may be found in this Austrian fortification, a fitting reminder of the similarities between Croatia and Greece.