What to see Croatia: 10 best islands of Croatia

10 best Croatian islands

Just off the coast of Croatia you will find an extraordinary series of beautiful islands, each offering its own unique range of attractions and landmarks. There are more than a thousand Croatian islands of varying sizes, from small rocks in the sea to the island of Cres, which is the 20th largest island in the Mediterranean. An overview of Croatia's most sought-after islands.

10Krk

Often called “the golden island”, Krk is the closest of the Croatian islands to western Europe. It is actually connected to the mainland by a bridge, making it easily accessible. Visitors to Krk will discover that this delightful island boasts a wide range of landscapes. While the northern end of the island is almost arid, the southern tip of the island offers gentle bays. Inland, rocky hills and fertile fields provide the ideal backdrop for growing grapes. The most popular activities on Krk include scuba diving, jet skiing, water skiing and paragliding.

9Rab

The island of Rab lies just off the northern coast of Croatia. One of the most densely wooded of the Croatian islands, Rab is home to a wide range of botanical life, including non-native plants. Among the most popular attractions of Rab is Komrcar Park, which is home to numerous plants and trees, including a 100-year-old agave. Thanks to the presence of more than 300 freshwater springs on the island, Rab is one of the greenest islands in the Adriatic Sea. Warm summers and mild winters make Rab an excellent place to visit at any time of year.

8Kornati

Made up of about 130 islands, rocks and islets, the Kornati islands are dotted with a breathtaking array of vineyards, olive groves and fig trees. Mediterranean scrub and rare trees complete a landscape set against limestone. The tourist can take a walk along the winding paths to enjoy a view of the open sea from one of the imposing cliffs that rise from these islands. Human presence on the Kornati islands dates back to the Neolithic, but due to deforestation and the resulting erosion the islands are now uninhabited. If you are looking to get back to basics and enjoy the simple beauty of island life, the Kornati islands are a great option.

7Pag

With the longest coastline of the Croatian islands, Pag has many bays, coves, promontories and beaches. Much of the island has a rocky topography; however, visitors will find green fields and valleys ideal for cultivation and growing olives. Zrce beach, near the town of Novalja, is popular with both locals and tourists. Visitors who feel adventurous and want to experience the great outdoors on Pag will find numerous campsites, many of them located in small bays or along the sea. A series of small towns on Pag offers ample dining and accommodation options.

6Mljet

Mljet is the greenest island in Croatia, with large parts of the island covered by forests and the rest dotted with fields, vineyards and small villages. The island contains two saltwater lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero, which are located at the western end of the island. In the middle of Veliko Jezero, there is a small island with an old Benedictine monastery.

5Cres

One of the largest islands of the Adriatic Sea, the hilly island of Cres features a spectacular array of pebble beaches and bays. Among the most important attractions of Cres is the freshwater lake of Vrana. This unique natural phenomenon is in fact one of the deepest freshwater lakes in eastern Europe. Water sports, scuba diving and hiking are all popular activities on Cres.

4Brac

The large island of Brac lies right off the coast of Split. With its gentle hills, secluded bays, crystal-clear waters and pines and figs, Brac is a very popular tourist destination. Visitors will find numerous places to visit on Brac, including the Dragon's Cave at the southern end of the island, the island museum in the village of Škrip and the famous Zlatni Rat beach near Bol. Vidova Gora, the highest mountain in the area, is also well worth a visit. Popular activities on Brac include windsurfing, kite surfing, diving and visiting the numerous private coves and pebble beaches.

3Korcula

Separated from the mainland by a narrow strait, Korcula is the most populated of all the Croatian islands. The island's capital is also called Korcula. Nicknamed “Little Dubrovnik”, this ancient town is among the most beautiful towns on the Croatian coast and is known for its unique architecture. One of the main attractions is the supposed birthplace of Marco Polo. The most beautiful building in Korcula is St Mark's Cathedral, built in Gothic-Renaissance style and completed in the 15th century.

2Vis

The beautiful but remote island of Vis is known for its long history of winemaking, making it a must for wine connoisseurs. Vis's isolation has preserved the charm and way of life characteristic of the 1950s and attracts tourists in search of the “Mediterranean as it once was”. The splendid crystal-clear waters, secluded and breathtaking beaches and historic landmarks of Vis will certainly delight visitors. Nature lovers will appreciate the well-preserved nature and ecological attractions of this island. Related

1Hvar

The gentle hills, the spectacular beaches, the lush vineyards and the lively nightlife of Hvar make it the perfect island holiday. Take a walk along the medieval streets of this enchanting island and you will come across imposing fortifications that bear witness to the island's ancient history. The town of Hvar may be the most beautiful town on the island, but Starigrad, the island's oldest village, and Jelsa, along with a series of small villages that dot the coast or nestle in the lush interior, are certainly worth a visit. If you are looking for adventure, you can take a water taxi to the Pakleni archipelago near the town of Hvar or take a walk towards the southern cliffs for a lunch at the local winery.