Vis is the black sheep of Dalmatian islands – the farthest inhabited island from the mainland, it retained its authenticity long after its neighbours became tourist hotspots. This was where the Yugoslav army was based, keeping it closed to foreigners for decades. Now that it’s open, visitors are discovering what Croatians have always known – Vis has stunning natural beauty, ancient Greek ruins, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s increasingly rare. The island gained fame as a location for the movie Mamma Mia!, but it’s the actual beauty here that draws repeat visitors. Hiring a car on Vis lets you explore this relatively untouched paradise at your own pace, discovering hidden beaches, vineyards, and villages that exist far from the tourist radar.
Why Rent a Car Here?
Here’s the honest truth about Vis – the island is larger than it looks, and the main town, while charming, is just the beginning. The best beaches are scattered around the coast, the ancient Greek ruins at Issa are on the opposite end from town, and the interior is filled with vineyards producing some of Croatia’s finest wines. Without a car, you’re limited to what you can walk or cycle – and the distances are too great for that. With a hire car, you can explore freely – find your own secluded cove, visit the church at the island’s highest point, or drive to the tiny fishing village of Komiža for a different perspective. The freedom to roam is exactly why car hire on Vis is worth it.
What to See & Do
Start in Vis town, with its charming harbour and the ancient Roman ruins scattered through town. The nearby open-air museum has artifacts from the Greek and Roman periods. Take the coastal road to the beautiful beach at Stiniva – it’s small and often ranked among Croatia’s best. The village of Komiža on the western side has a pretty harbour and is known for its fishing heritage – the seafood restaurants here are excellent. Drive to the top of the island for views across to the Italian coast on clear days. The beach at Milna is a favourite with locals. The vineyards around Vis produce the island’s famous Vugava white wine – visit a winery for a tasting. The Blue Cave on the nearby island of Biševo is accessible by boat from Vis.
Driving Tips
The main road runs around Vis in a rough circle, with branches leading to villages in the interior. It’s about 45 minutes to drive from Vis town to Komiža on the other side. Roads are generally good but can be narrow in places – a compact car makes navigating easier. The road to some beaches, like Stiniva, involves steep descents and tight turns. Fuel up in Vis town before heading to remote areas – there are limited petrol stations. The ferry terminal is in Vis town, and you can drive your hire car onto the ferry to return to the mainland. Parking in Vis town is limited in summer – get to the harbour area early for the best spots.
Booking Tips
Car hire on Vis is more limited and expensive than on the mainland due to logistics. Many visitors bring their hire car on the ferry from Split – this is often the better option for both price and availability. Book the ferry separately and well in advance, especially in summer, as spaces for cars are limited. Consider combining Vis with a trip to the Blue Cave on Biševo – boat trips depart from Vis harbour. Autumn brings better prices and fewer crowds – September is particularly beautiful. If you’re planning to visit both Vis and Hvar, you can take the ferry between them, though this complicates car logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a car to Vis Island?
Take the ferry from Split to Vis – the crossing takes about 2 hours. You can bring your hire car on the ferry.
Is Vis worth visiting?
Absolutely – Vis is Croatia’s most remote inhabited island, with beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Can I drive around the whole island?
Yes, the main road runs around the island’s perimeter, with branches to interior villages. Allow a couple of hours to circle it.