The farthest inhabited Croatian island from the coast, as Vis spent a significant part of its recent history as a military base, driving many of the locals to move elsewhere for work while being closed off to foreign visitors for 40 years, it was spared from much tourism development. Today it’s often referred to as the “Mediterranean as it once was” with spectacular unspoiled nature. Those who visit now come not only for its beauty, but its tranquility, authenticity, and gourmet delights. The island includes stunning secluded beaches like the famous Stiniva, tucked between two high cliffs, along with citrus orchards, pine and carob trees, cacti, and multiple vineyards. Vis has its own distinct grape, a white varietal called vugava that’s been cultivated here since ancient times, as well as a red wine grape, plavac, producing tasty wines to pair with delicious eats.
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Most accommodation in Vis can be found in Komiza and Vis Town. Komiza is busier and an ideal choice for those who plan to take the boat tour of the Blue Cave on nearby Bisevo Island. This is also where you’ll find some of the island’s best beaches, with pebbly stretches and lots of shade located along the entire coast of Komiza Bay. While there’s just one hotel, Komiza does have apartments and guesthouses. Vis Town is more tranquil and offers traditional architecture along with a fantastic archaeological museum and a variety of two-, three- and four-star hotels.
Vis old town is a merger of two settlements: 19th-century Luka (meaning ‘port’), where the ferry docks, and medieval Kut, on the opposite curve of the horseshoe. Enjoy a stroll down the cobbled streets and enjoy stunning views of the traditional stone houses. Alternatively, dive into the rich history of this small town with the remains of a Greek cemetery, Roman baths, and an English fortress.
Below a 600-meter Mount Hum, lies the beautiful town of Komiza. Explore the beautiful 17th and 18th century stone streets and houses and visit the breathtaking and picturesque pebble or sand beaches. Alternatively, you can take a boat trip around this beautiful area and visit the unique Blue Cave, near the island of Bisevo.
Once touted the ‘Best Beach in Europe’ by a 10,000-strong poll, Stiniva Cove can only be reached either by a challenging, downward hike or by boat. The beach itself is pebbly and very sheltered thanks to tall rocky headlands that are just 4 meters apart, creating the entrance to the cove. There is a small cafe for a refreshing drink.
Summer is a popular time to visit although you’re unlikely to find the big crowds that some of the other islands experience. July and August can be quite hot, making those months best for travelers who want to spend lots of time in the water. Early fall can be quite lovely, quiet with comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and the water is likely to still be warm enough for swimming. Winters often experience powerful winds with Vis exposed to the open sea, but wait until about mid-spring, and you’ll find it quite enjoyable again.
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It’s easy to spend a week or more relaxing on Vis, soaking up the picturesque scenery, but to see the sights you’ll need a minimum of three days. It’s an island with many possible adventures, like the challenging hike down to Stiniva Beach for unforgettable swimming, shipwreck sites for divers, opportunities to paddleboard in Milna Bay, and boat tours to the famous Blue Cave. There are also military tours, wine tours, and bicycle rentals for exploring the island on two wheels. Three days just barely covers it without much time to simply unwind with a glass of the local wine.
Nestled in Stiniva Cove on the south side of Vis Island, Stiniva is often named among the region’s most beautiful beaches, with the smooth, pebbly stretch framed by sheer rock walls while edging surreal aquamarine waters. As the word has gotten out about its beauty, you’ll want to visit early, before the speed boats start to arrive with day trippers after 10:30. Or go after the crowds have dissipated in the afternoon, around 4 p.m. as the shade starts to cover the beach.
The Issa Archaeological Museum in Vis is housed in a 19th-century Austrian fortress and is a must-see with Croatia’s largest collection of Hellenistic artifacts, including a remarkable 4th-century BC bronze head of the goddess Artemis. Tito’s Cave, located along the approach to the top of Mount Hum, is also a popular attraction that can be visited independently or on a tour. From the mountain, you’ll also get a jaw-dropping view over the island. With boat tours to the Blue Cave departing from Vis, it’s another essential site while you’re here.
Vis is an island worth the hype. Odds are, no matter how much time you plan to spend here you’ll wish it was longer, and you may be planning your return trip before you even leave. With its practically untouched nature, breathtaking beaches that include both sandy and pebbly stretches, charming towns, fabulous authentic cuisine, and abundant local wines, it’s hard to say goodbye. The towns here are some of the least crowded in the Adriatic, from the colorful fishing village of Komiza at the foot of Mount Hum to the town of Vis, the island’s largest and oldest settlement.
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