How To Get To The Island Of Vis In Croatia: A Complete Breakdown

Last updated on March 25th, 2025 at 06:35 pm

Are you planning a trip to Croatia and wondering how to get to the Island of Vis in Croatia?

Vis Island is slowly becoming one of the more popular Croatian Islands in the Dalmatia Island chain, and for good reason! Its mountainous landscape, unique beaches and charming seaside towns are incredible!

However, getting to Vis might not be as straightforward as you think! In this guide, I break down everything you need to know about how to get to the Island of Vis in Croatia!

I’ll cover how to get to Vis Island from other areas of Europe, as well as getting to Vis from other Croatian Islands. I’ll also touch on boat tours versus staying on Vis and more!

So, keep reading if you are planning a trip to the Island of Vis and wondering about the best way to get there!

Planning your trip to Vis Island last minute?

Here’s a few activities and top hotel recommendations to book before you get to Vis Croatia, so you don’t miss out!!

Top experiences and excursions

• Exclusive private speed boat tour of Vis Island, caves, beaches & more!
• Local wine tasting and tour through the vineyards of Vis Croatia!!

Top 3 Hotels in Vis Croatia

• San Giorgio – top boutique hotel
• Luxury Villa Envivo Komiza – ideal for groups
• Luxury Blue Villas – individual villas with private pools

The Ultimate Guide On How To Get To The Island Of Vis In Croatia: Flights, Ferries & More!

Where is Vis Island Croatia?

Before we get into this guide on how to get to the Island of Vis in Croatia, I wanted to let you know exactly where Vis is in relation to the other islands, it’s important to get a handle on the geography!

Vis is part of the Dalmatian Island chain, between the coastal cities of Split and Dubrovnik in the Adriatic Sea, which also includes Brac, Hvar, Korcula and many others! This small group of islands are by far the most popular in the whole of Croatia!

Below is a graphic of Dalmatia to show you where Vis is among the islands and in relation to Split, the closest international arrival point on the mainland.

The island of Vis is around 56 square miles, which makes it relatively small in comparison to some of the other islands like Brac and Korcula.

Vis is famous for its incredible landscapes, such as the stunning beach of Stiniva and the Mount Hum backdrop of Komiza Village! It’s one of the most unique places I’ve travelled to in Croatia, and it definitely deserves a spot on your Croatia Island hopping itinerary!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest Airport to Vis Island?

Split International Airport is the closest airport to the Island of Vis in Croatia, (SPU).

How do I get to Vis, Croatia from the UK?

If you’re island hopping the Dalmatian Coast you can catch a direct flight to either Dubrovnik or Split and start there (EasyJet, Ryanair, Jet2). You will then either get a direct ferry from Split or another island to Vis – depending on your route!

How do I get to Vis from Split?

There are a few options for getting to Vis from Split, these are ferry, private boat or boat trip! (more on this below!!)

How long is the Split to Vis ferry?

Ferry times vary based on number of stops, season, and other factors. However, the fastest time for a non-stop ferry from Split to Vis Island is about 2.5 hours.

Do you need a car on Vis Island?

You don’t need a car on Vis Island, visitors usually hop on the boats and go on boat excursions to travel around the island. A car would be useful if you stay for more than a couple of days and want to explore independently or if your accommodation is in a quieter bay area like Milna or a villa for a week.

How to get to the island of Vis in Croatia by car?

Jadrolinija operates a regular car ferry service from Split to Vis Town. The ferry ride takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. You can bring your car on board, but it’s advised to book your ticket in advance, especially in the summer months.

How to get to the island of Vis in Croatia by boat?

You can visit the isle of Vis by boat from Hvar and Brac Islands and from Split, this is a nice way to discover some of the best things to do on Vis and see nearby beaches, caves and islands! See the below details of the various boat options!

How long is the ferry from Hvar to Vis?

The direct ferry from Hvar to Vis is 1hr.

Flight Options To Vis Island Croatia

Vis Island doesn’t have an airport, the only way to get to Vis Island directly is by boat or ferry, below I will explore these options!

The nearest airport to Vis Island is Split (SPU), however, if you have Dubrovnik flights this is also possible it just requires one or two more steps!!

Ideally, if you are island hopping you will have one-way flights in and out of Split and Dubrovnik separately!

Here’s the flight options and paths!

Flights to Dubrovnik

There are multiple flights to Dubrovnik per day from domestic and international Airports and Dubrovnik is the most visited place in Croatia and easy to get to for most visitors.

How to get to Vis from Dubrovnik? This involves a bit more planning!

Dubrovnik airport is far from Vis Island and there are no direct routes to Vis from Dubrovnik, instead to can build an island hop itinerary around it – you can see the ferry options below!

Flights to Split

Split is the second most visited city in Croatia and similarly, flights are plentiful!

But from Split it’s possible to travel directly to Vis on the same day by ferry – if you arrive early, the afternoon ferry departure times from Split to Vis are 3pm and 6.30pm and the journey times is 2.5hrs to Vis Island.

I do, however, recommend adding a few nights in Split at the beginning of your trip

Note! It’s around an hour travel time from Split International Airport to the Ferry Port in Split and you will need to arrive 30 minutes minimum beforehand.

Ferry Options To Vis Island Croatia

The other primary option for travelling to Vis, Croatia is taking a ferry!

Vis Island is served by its main ferry port in the town of Vis. This town is one of the most popular places to stay on Vis, thanks to the harbour, hotels, restaurants and shops near the port.

Ferry schedules vary year to year; however, during the summer months, there are typically multiple ferries per day including car ferries to Vis from Split and other neighbouring islands.

Including Vis as part of an Island Hopping itinerary is the most popular way to travel to Vis during the summer, which I highly recommend!

Check the Jadrolinija (main ferry company in Dalmatia) for routes, prices and booking tickets.

After travelling around these islands dozens of times since 2012, I am certain that I’ve experienced all of the ferries mentioned in this post and you’ll be pleased to know that the ferries in Croatia are well-organised and rarely late! In fact, they are often up-market!

I will dive into the exact routes and timetables below, depending on where you are travelling from, there are a few options for your trip to Vis Island!

HOW TO GET FROM DUBROVNIK TO VIS ISLAND

Ferries from Dubrovnik to Vis Island

As mentioned there are no direct routes from Dubrovnik to Vis Island, instead, you would typically begin with a few days in Dubrovnik, before travelling around the islands especially if it’s your first time in Croatia!

All ferries will leave from the Port of Dubrovnik, a 20-minute taxi ride away from the Old Town – note only small boats actually leave from Dubrovnik’s picturesque Harbour!

You can book the daily Jardrolinija ferry route Dubrovnik to Hvar (3-hrs) with an option of adding a stop in Korcula, then book separately the Hvar to Vis leg, this route is the best way of reaching Vis from Dubrovnik.

I have travelled on this ferry route many times and it’s very popular and scenic, you also stop by the beautiful Mljet National Park!

Hvar is my favourite island and I do recommend spending a few days there, just be aware that the ferries from Hvar Island depart only every Tuesday to Vis, there’s more information below on this!

Here’s an example of how a full itinerary might look like Dubrovnik – (Korcula optional) – Hvar Island – (Brac optional) – Vis Island – Split.

Note: If you have return flights to Dubrovnik and finish in Vis Island you can get a ferry directly to Split then a bus (6hrs +) or private taxi back to Dubrovnik.

HOW TO GET FROM SPLIT TO VIS ISLAND

Ferries from Split to Vis Island

Lets take a look at how to get the ferry from Split to Vis Island! All ferries will leave from the Port of Split, which is a ten-minute walk from Split’s Riva!

The Split to Vis route is by far the most common way of getting to Vis!

In the summer months from May until September, there are 3 or 4 direct ferries daily from 11am until 7.45pm! But the schedules change depending on the day and month.

A direct ferry between Split and Vis direct is 2.5hrs, it’s totally doable for a hidden gem, or of course, you can break it up with another island in-between! You can check the times and prices here.

Split to Vis Island boat day-trip

Another great option, if you have limited time in Croatia is to go on a day trip from Split to Vis!

Ideally, you will save 3-4 nights for Vis Island to settle in, see the sights and explore Vis beaches by boat, but if this is not possible, below is a fantastic full-day private boat trip from Split to Vis!

This private boat trip from Split allows you to build your own itinerary, visiting beaches, illuminating caves, scenic spots and more – the choices are all up to you!

I recommend this highly rated private boat hire, and focusing your itinerary on Vis Island and Vis Town. Komiza, Blue Cave and the Blue Lagoon.

HOW TO GET FROM HVAR ISLAND TO VIS ISLAND

Ferries from Hvar Island TO Vis Island

Now let’s take a look at Hvar to Vis Island! If you are planning a Croatia Island Hopping Itinerary, you will probably be visiting multiple islands, which I highly recommend!

Vis Island is an excellent contrast to Hvar Island and its only 50 minutes away! It’s really very simple to get to Vis from Hvar as the ferry leaves directly from Hvar Town Harbour!

The only snag is the ferry between the two islands only runs every Tuesday and the times vary depending on the month, so you will have to check your exact dates for this to work!

It is a popular route to take, one which I have done myself a few times, with a loop back to Split! An example of this trip is Split-Brac-Hvar-Vis-Split.

Hvar to Vis Island boat day-trip

Another great option, if you want to see the highlights of Vis Island without moving around too much is to book this incredible private boat trip!

On this private boat trip from Hvar Island, you’ll tailor your itinerary and with a hired skipper, explore the hidden gems, best beaches and scenery including the Pakleni Islands – just off Hvar Town and Vis Island!

Although I haven’t been on this exact tour I did experience a very similar private tour 8 years ago with a group of 5 and thought it was amazing! I recommend seeing the Blue Cave over the Green Cave and stopping in Vis Town, Stiniva and Komiza on Vis!

If you are on the fence about staying Vis Island or having more time on Hvar, I strongly suggest booking this private boat trip option, it was one of my highlights of visiting this region in Croatia!

P.S. Don’t forget to check out my guide to the best things to do on Hvar Island, the most glam island in Croatia!

HOW TO GET FROM BRAC ISLAND TO VIS ISLAND

Ferries from Brac To Vis Island

Last but not least, let’s talk about how to get to Vis from Brac. As you probably know, Brac is another very popular Croatian island and its iconic Golden Horne Beach especially, making it the perfect addition to any Croatia itinerary.

Brac Island is a bit further from Vis than Hvar on the map, but it’s actually the same 50-minute timeframe on the ferry! Your options for getting from Brac to Vis Island are almost identical to Hvar!

The ferries leave from Milna on Brac Island once per week, every Wednesday and the time again, varies depending on the month.

You can check the ferry option here!

Brac to Vis Island boat day-trip

If you are looking for a scenic tour of Vis Island from Brac Island, this boat trip is perfect!

The tour covers the Blue Cave and Komiza Harbour as well as visiting the Paklensi islands and a stop in Hvar, If you haven’t been to any of these places it’s an excellent option!

HOW TO GET TO VIS FROM OTHER ISLANDS

It would take forever to list out the options for getting to Vis Island from every Dalmatian island! However, the route is the same.

Vis Island only connects to 3 places, these are Hvar (Town), Brac (Milna) and Split Port, you can get the ferry or sometimes private taxi boat between the islands and the mainland.

P.S. Check out my guide on how to Island hop in Croatia for inspiration!

WHAT TO DO ON VIS ISLAND CROATIA

While figuring out how to get to Vis Island is key, knowing what to do once you get there is just as important!

Vis is an hidden gem in the Dalmatian Island, famous for its rugged landscapes, turquoise waters, and charming coastal villages. I recommend spending 3 or 4 days on Vis Island to be able to do and see it all!

Here is a quick summary of my must-dos, or you can check out my full guide to the very best things to do in Vis, Croatia!

Explore The Unique Beaches

Vis is home to some of the most diverse and scenic unspoilt beaches in Croatia. Thanks to its mountainous landscape, each beach is unique, making beach-hopping one of the best things to do here!

Below are the top beaches I recommend checking out. Note: You’ll want to have a rental car, boat hire or taxi boat to be able to explore around Vis Island properly!

Stivina Beach – This is the most iconic white pebble-stoned beach on Vis Island, it located within in a small cove, flanked by limestone cliffs at either side with crystal clear blue water to swim and a little bar cabin in the corner for drinks – it’s very scenic and my personal favourite spot!

Grandovac – Located just outside Vis Town, Grandovac Beach is a mix of pebbles and sand, making it a great spot for both sunbathing and swimming. It’s also one of the best beaches in Vis for snorkeling, thanks to its crystal-clear waters.

For more details on these beaches and more, be sure to check out my blog post on the Best Beaches in Vis, Croatia!

Take A Boat Tour Of Blue Cave

One of the most iconic sights in near Vis Island is the illuminating Blue Cave and the serene Blue Lagoon waters, that can only be reached by boat.

A must-visit spot for swimming and snorkeling, the striking rock formations, crystal-clear water, and hidden caves make this area one of the most photogenic places to be!

To get to the Blue Cave or Blue Lagoon, you will either need to rent a boat or book a tour. Several local companies offer full-day sailing trips that also stop at places like the Blue Lagoon and Stiniva Beach.

Many tours include snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear, making it an easy and fun day out. This is the tour we booked, and we had a fantastic time!

There are smaller boats so you can cruise through the Blue Cave and many swimming opportunities at the Blue Lagoon and Stiniva Beach. Definitely, my favourite thing we did in Vis!

Read more about the top boat tours on Vis Island, Croatia here!

Wander Through The Island’s Charming Towns

Like other Croatian islands, Vis is dotted with charming towns, each offering a unique vibe. Wandering through these towns is one of the best ways to soak in the island’s laid-back charm. Here are the top ones you need to visit!

Vis Town – The largest town on the island of Vis in Croatia! Here’s where you’ll find the main port and nice harbour surrounded by Venetian buildings, yachts and restaurants. It’s a great area to grab a coffee on an outdoor terrace and people-watch! Vis Town is also my favourite area in Vis to stay for a few nights.

Komiza – A seaside village known for its relaxed vibe, horseshoe bay and mountainous backdrop. Its a nice spot for a wander and to stay if you’re looking for a low-key vibe with beautiful scenery.

Wine Tasting in Vis’s Vineyards

Vis Island isn’t just about beaches and boat tours there’s also a green interior and vineyards to explore!

Korcula is the most well-known island in Croatia for producing wine, but Vis is also worth looking into for local wine straight from the rolling vineyards! I love this wine-tasting tour of Vis, it takes you to two vineyards and you’ll get some great views along the way and charcuterie!

You can book this 5-star-rated wine-tasting tour of Vis here!

Enjoy Sunset At Fort George

Fort George is the secret place to go for epic views and sunsets over dinner and drinks!

The character and ancient stone walls are all still intact and there’s also a sprawling Mediterranean terrace and restaurant serving local cuisine and wine – doesn’t that sound perfect?

Due to the location, you would need to hunt down a taxi (easier from Vis Town) or have your own transport and in summer I recommend reserving a table in time for sunset!

For more information on the island of Vis in Croatia, make sure to check out my Guide to the Best Things to do in Vis Island and my breakdown of Where to Stay in Vis Croatia!

GETTING TO VIS ISLAND CROATIA FINAL THOUGHTS

As you can see, there are several options to consider when figuring out how to get to the Island of Vis in Croatia!

If you are coming from Europe or the USA, you’ll first need to fly into Split if you’re island-hopping to start your journey. From there, you can take a ferry, excursion or private boat!

For those coming from another Croatian Island, like Brac or Hvar the most common method is to take a ferry or private day trip around Vis Island!

Whichever option you choose, I promise Vis Island is worth it! This island felt so untouched compared to places like Hvar. And now that you know how to get there, check out my guide to the best things to do for all the details you need to plan your stay on the island!

Liked this post? Please leave a comment in the box below – or you can BUY ME A COFFEE!

Plan your Vis itinerary, Croatia’s most authentic island!

Here’s my go-to list of resources for transport, accommodation, and tours for travel in Vis Croatia!

• Booking.com for the best boutique rates
• Viator for great day trips
• Get Your Guide for unique day excursions

Read Next:

• 5 Wonderful Island To Visit In Croatia
• What To See & Do On Vis Island
• Where To Stay On Vis Island
• The Best Boat Tours Of Vis Island: Vis To Blue Cave
• The Best Beaches in Vis Island: A Complete Guide!

LIKED THIS POST? PIN IT!

How to get to the Island of Vis in Croatia | Pin For Later

This post contains affiliate links and I earn a small commission when you make a purchase using the link. This is at no extra cost to you and it allows the site to keep running.