Why Island Hop in Croatia?

Croatia has over 1,000 islands scattered along its Adriatic coast, but only about 50 are inhabited. That leaves you with an incredible selection of hidden coves, medieval towns, and pristine beaches to discover. The best part? You can explore many of them by combining car travel with ferry rides.

Island hopping in Croatia is different from other Mediterranean destinations. The islands here retain authentic character – fishing villages where locals still speak the old dialect, vineyards on sunny slopes, and Roman ruins emerging from the scrub. It’s a unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Planning Your Island Hopping Trip

When to Go

The best time for island hopping is from May to June or September to October. July and August bring peak crowds, higher prices, and fully booked ferries. Spring offers wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while autumn brings the grape harvest and golden light. Winter sees many islands quiet down, with some ferry routes reduced.

Your Car + Ferry Strategy

Here’s the key insight: bring your hire car on the ferry. This opens up possibilities that island-only visitors miss. You can explore an island by car, ferry to the next, and continue exploring. Most major islands – including Brač, Hvar, Korčula, and Vis – accept cars on their ferries.

The main ferry routes from the mainland run from Split, Dubrovnik, and Rijeka. Split is the most convenient hub for central Dalmatian islands, while Dubrovnik serves the southern islands.

Island Hopping Route: Split to Dubrovnik

This classic route takes you through the most beautiful islands in Dalmatia.

Step 1: Brač

Start in Split and take the hourly ferry to Supetar on Brač (50 minutes). With your car, visit the famous Zlatni Rat beach near Bol – that distinctive golden horn of pebbled sand shifting with the currents. Drive up to Vidova Gora for panoramic views, explore the pretty harbour town of Pučišća, and discover the Dragon’s Cave near Murvica. Brač is large enough to warrant two days.

Step 2: Hvar

From Brač, take the ferry from Supetar to Stari Grad (or from Split to Stari Grad directly). Hvar is Croatia’s sunniest island and famous for its nightlife, but there’s more depth here. Explore the ancient Greek fields at Stari Grad, a UNESCO site. Drive to Jelsa for a quieter harbour experience, and don’t miss the hilltop villages of the interior. The drive from Stari Grad to Hvar town takes about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Korčula

Ferry from Hvar to Korčula town (or to Vela Luka on the western end). Korčula is said to be Marco Polo’s birthplace, and its medieval old town is one of the best-preserved in the Adriatic. With a car, explore the eastern vineyards around Lumbarda, drive to the peaceful fishing village of Vela Luka, and discover hidden beaches along the southern coast. Allow at least two nights here.

Step 4: Dubrovnik

Finish your island hop in Dubrovnik – take the ferry from Korčula or drive down the scenic Pelješac Peninsula to catch the ferry from Orebic. Dubrovnik itself warrants several days, but you can also use it as a base for exploring the Elaphiti Islands nearby.

Island Hopping Route: Kvarner Gulf

For a different island experience, head north to the Kvarner Gulf.

Cres and Lošinj

Connected by a bridge, these two islands offer forested landscapes unusual in the Mediterranean. The town of Mali Lošinj is charming, with pastel buildings and a lovely harbour. With a car, explore hidden beaches and the dolphin-filled waters around the islands.

Krk

Croatia’s largest island is also one of the most accessible – connected to the mainland by a dramatic bridge. Krk has something for everyone: beach resorts, medieval towns, and the charming village of Vrbnik known for its white wine.

Essential Tips for Island Hopping

Booking Ferries

Book your ferry tickets online in advance, especially in summer. Car spaces sell out quickly on popular routes. The Jadrolinija website (jadrolinija.hr) is the main operator, with other companies on specific routes.

Car Hire Logistics

Bring your hire car from the mainland rather than hiring on islands – prices are better and there’s more selection. Book one-way rentals to avoid backtracking: collect in Split, explore islands, drop off in Dubrovnik (or vice versa).

Driving on Islands

Island roads vary from good main routes to narrow mountain tracks. A compact car is easier for the winding roads. Fuel up before heading to remote areas – petrol stations can be few and far between.

What to Pack

Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring towns, swimwear, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. A small daypack is useful for ferry trips to islands where you’ll be exploring on foot.

Best Islands by Interest

For beaches: Brač (Zlatni Rat), Vis (Stiniva), Rab (Lopar)
For history: Hvar (Greek ruins), Korčula (medieval town), Rab (medieval towers)
For wine: Korčula (Pošip, Grk), Vis (Vugava), Hvar (Plavac Mali)
For peace and quiet: Vis, Lošinj, Lastovo

Final Thoughts

Croatia island hopping by car offers the perfect blend of freedom and adventure. You’re not tied to ferry schedules or expensive water taxis. You can linger longer at a beach you love, change plans on a whim, and discover the unexpected around every coastal bend. The combination of spectacular driving roads, car-friendly ferries, and islands that reward exploration makes Croatia one of Europe’s best destinations for independent island hopping.