Brač is the largest island in central Dalmatia, and honestly, it often gets overshadowed by its more famous neighbours. That’s a shame because this island has serious depth – from the world-famous Zlatni Rat beach that draws beach lovers from around the globe to quiet mountain villages where time seems to have stood still. Hiring a car on Brač opens up the entire island, letting you discover olive groves, vineyards, and stone quarries that have shaped Dalmatian architecture for centuries. The island’s position between Split and the open Adriatic means you’ll find dramatic windswept beaches on one side and sheltered coves on the other. With your own wheels, you can experience both – and everything in between.
Why Rent a Car Here?
Brač is genuinely big for an island – over 40 kilometres long – and the distances between attractions add up quickly without a car. The famous Zlatni Rat beach near Bol is a 30-minute drive from the ferry terminal in Supetar, but the island has so much more beyond this one attraction. The interior road through Dol and Škrip passes ancient Roman ruins and leads to the island’s highest point, Vidova Gora, with stunning views across to Hvar. The towns of Pučišća and Supetar offer different vibes – one a working fishing village, the other a more tourist-friendly harbour. Without a hire car, you’re at the mercy of infrequent buses and expensive water taxis. With wheels, Brač becomes yours to explore on your own schedule.
What to See & Do
Start at Zlatni Rat, the beach that puts Brač on the map – its distinctive horn shape shifts with the currents, and the waters here are impossibly clear. The nearby town of Bol has grown around this beach and offers good restaurants and nightlife. Drive up to Vidova Gora, the island’s highest peak, for views that stretch across the Adriatic to the distant mountains. The pretty village of Pučišća boasts one of the most photographed harbours in Dalmatia, while Supetar serves as the island’s main ferry port with restaurants and shops. Don’t miss the Drachenhöhle (Dragon’s Cave) near Murvica – an ancient cave with mysterious medieval inscriptions. The village of Škrip claims to be the oldest settlement on the island, with roots going back to the Illyrians.
Driving Tips
Brač’s main road runs from Supetar in the north through the island’s centre to Bol in the south – this is the road you’ll use most. It’s generally in good condition but can be busy in summer. The interior roads are narrower and wind through villages, so take your time. The road to Vidova Gora is steep and best tackled in a smaller vehicle. Parking at Zlatni Rat fills up early in the morning during summer – get there by 9am for a spot, or park in Bol and walk. Fuel up in Supetar or Bol as other villages have limited petrol facilities. Watch for sudden weather changes – the island can get windy, especially near Zlatni Rat.
Booking Tips
Most visitors bring their hire cars from Split on the ferry, which is often cheaper than hiring on Brač itself. Book early for summer travel, particularly if you want to guarantee availability for a specific vehicle type. Consider renting a smaller car – the island’s narrow village roads are easier to navigate with a compact vehicle. Autumn brings better deals and still offers warm weather for beach visits. Some rental companies don’t allow their vehicles on the ferry, so confirm this when booking. If you’re planning to visit multiple islands, a one-way rental from Split to Dubrovnik via the islands could work, though ferry logistics make this complex.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a car to Brač Island?
Drive onto the car ferry from Split to Supetar. The ferry runs hourly and takes about 50 minutes.
Is Brač worth visiting with a car?
Definitely. The island is large with diverse scenery, and having a car lets you visit Zlatni Rat, the Dragon’s Cave, and hidden beaches.
What is Zlatni Rat?
Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) is Brač’s famous beach near Bol – a distinctive triangular pebble beach that shifts with the currents.