A picturesque European country that offers the perfect opportunity for island-hopping, Croatia is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor adventures and natural splendours. These small islands include spectacular coastlines and stunning views from charming coastal towns, where you can explore historical monuments and take in the Adriatic Sea. Here are the most beautiful islands in Croatia that you must visit.
Hvar Credit: bigstock.com Hvar
Hvar (hotel prices and photos)
The most popular island in Croatia is Hvar. Both the island and the town, it's a great place to explore some of Croatia's history, from the historic Franciscan monastery of Our Lady of Grace to the old town of Hvar. Taste the cuisine of southern Croatia with a glass of wine in one of the small local restaurants and admire the yachts floating on its sunny shores. It is one of Croatia's most luxurious destinations and a magnet for the rich and famous and those who love luxury.
Brac (prices and hotel photos)
The largest island in Dalmatia, Brac is known as a luxury retreat with a beautiful coastline. It is only a short ferry crossing from Split, and offers the chance to explore the country's rich history as it has been inhabited since Neolithic times. Be sure to admire its rocky coastal areas and natural white stone, the island's signature export, which was used to create the stunning Diocletian's Palace in Split.
Vis (prices and hotel photos)
Known for its blue Bisevo cave, Vis is a dream destination that is far from the Croatian mainland. Serving as the base of the Yugoslav National Army from 1950 to 1989, it boasts an unspoilt paradise-like atmosphere where you will be surrounded by some of the country's most spectacular scenery. You can explore two towns, the northeastern town of Vis and Komiza in the southwest, where beach enclaves lure you in for a day of sunbathing.
Rab (prices and hotel photos)
Rab lies off Croatia's northern coast in Kvaner Bay, offering 13 miles of pure tranquillity along the Adriatic Sea. Known as the place where King Edward VIII brought his new wife Wallis Simpson in 1936, where she donned her royal robes and jumped into the sea, setting the scene for the island's friendly nudist tradition. Its relaxed ambience catches up with its beautiful beaches, while its small town is a landscape of terracotta roofs and church towers.
Korcula (prices and hotel photos)
The Greeks originally camped on this island, calling it Korkyra Melaina - Black Korcula because of its thick, dark forests. It is now most famous for its white wine, which is known as the crispest and freshest type in Croatia, made from the posip grape. It is the second most populated island in the Adriatic region and has a mix of picturesque villages and vineyards, while charming fishing villages are dotted along the coast. With the nickname 'Little Dubrovnik', be sure to admire its medieval walls or visit Marco Polo's gallery and cathedral.
Dugi Otok (prices and hotel photos)
One of the largest islands in northern Dalmatia, Dugi Otok is easily accessible by boat and is ideal for trekking, cycling and diving. Here you can explore the western part of the island to discover its collection of high cliffs and rugged coastline, then visit the town of Sali for succulent seafood in local restaurants. Only 27 miles long, the island's most famous beach is Sakuran, and its south-eastern quarter has been declared a National Park.
Cres (Prices and Hotel Photos)
Nestled in the northern corner of the Adriatic Sea, Cres is dotted with forests, cliffs and hilltop towns along the coast. Admire its 16th century Venetian tower and the Palace of Arsan, along with the Cres Museum housing local costumes, weapons and memorabilia. Known for its griffon vulture population, so be sure to look up and see if you can spot this fearsome bird spreading its wings as well as an iconic Adriatic sunset. Reachable by ferry via Rijeka, it is the perfect place to explore the unique culture and charm of Croatian island life.
Pag (hotel prices and photos)
Pag is known for its moonscape, lace-making and Pag cheese, this island offers the chance to explore sandy and pebble beaches and a 15th century church of St. George. The town of Pag is known for its cultural heritage, where medieval streets lead to quaint shops with lace sewn by local women. Walk along Pag's old town to see an archaeological site or head to Zrce beach to see its picturesque beaches, then indulge in the nightlife in Novalja.
Solta (prices and hotel photos)
Easily accessible by ferry from Split, Solta is a great place to enjoy some of the island's most picturesque vineyards and olive groves that have been passed down through generations. Rent a bike and explore the small towns and farms that dot the island, then hike to Vela Straza for views from its 777-foot peak or go swimming and sailing in its bays and beaches. If you like diving, explore the island's underwater treasures that include artefacts such as Roman wrecks.
Krapanj (hotel prices and photos)
One of the smallest inhabited islands in Croatia, Krapanj is only 300 metres from the mainland itself, making it the most accessible island in the country. It has a long history with sea sponges, and you can see the products of sponge sellers in local shops or dive deep for an underwater exploration. Afterwards, enjoy island life and savour the island's regional delicacy, squid ink risotto.