Vis is a gem among the Adriatic islands. One of the most remote and least inhabited, it was left wonderfully untouched by tourism development thanks to being closed off to visitors for 40 years while serving as a military base. With the independence of Croatia, it slowly opened up to the outside world again, revealing its rich history, traditions, and heritage along with its spectacular natural beauty. In Vis Town, you’ll witness its past in many places, including a fortress, ancient monuments like a Roman theatre, and the Archaeological Museum, while the cobbled streets of Komiza’s historic old town are fun to get lost in. The island is home to many of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches, like the famous Stiniva, a tiny stretch of sand framed by high cliffs and edged by aquamarine water.
The main places to stay in Vis are Vis Town and Komiza. Vis Town is known for its more tranquil setting and offers a range of two- to four-star hotels as well as being home to the outstanding archaeological museum. Komiza is a good choice for those who want easy access to the boat tours to the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island as well as enjoying the beaches that line the shores of Komiza Bay. It hosts a hotel, with the majority of accommodation options being guesthouses and apartment rentals.
On a tour of the Old Town, stroll along the medieval cobblestone streets and discover the rich history and heritage of the peaceful island of Vis. Explore the remains of the ancient Greek colony of Issa, the Roman thermae, and the Levaman Fortress, which boasts an archaeological museum featuring many 4th century BC exhibits. You can also venture to the tiny peninsula where the Church of St Jerome and its monastery can be found.
Positioned directly in the shadow of the 600m high Hum Mountain, Komiza invites you to enjoy an unforgettable sightseeing adventure. A cluster of charming 17th and 18th stone houses encircle the picturesque port and bay of the quaint fishing town. This is also where much of 2018’s Mamma Mia 2 was filmed. Dotted along the coastline are beautiful, pebbly beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. To observe a natural phenomenon, hop on a boat to the neighbouring island of Bisevo, to discover the magical Blue Cave.
It wasn’t too long ago that Stiniva Cove was touted as being the ‘best beach in Europe’. As Vis is the furthermost island in the Croatian archipelago, the waves of the Adriatic Sea have created a unique rock formation, from the natural stone and volcanic ash. These oversize rocks form the entrance of the beautiful bay. To reach the sheltered pebble beach it’s necessary to hike downwards. It can also be directly accessed via boat.
The Vis tourist season is May through October, with July and August the peak time. While it’s significantly quieter than islands like Hvar and popular mainland cities such as Dubrovnik, if you visit during the summer, there is likely to be a queue for the ferries. If you come in the spring, there won’t be as much ferry traffic, and you’ll have the best chance of spotting dolphins. In October, the water is still warm enough for swimming and you’ll be able to share the spoils of the harvest.
How many days do you need in Vis?
Vis is ideal for a relaxing getaway. If you want to see the sights and enjoy time for quiet contemplation while surrounded by incredible scenery, three to five days is ideal. There are many possible tours, including options for exploring the wineries and military relics, and you could easily spend a day exploring on two wheels, with bicycles for hire. Discover the island’s ancient sites like the Roman theatre and choose from a long list of other activities that await. Everything from swimming off spectacular Stiniva Beach and paddleboarding in Milna Bay to diving and boat excursions to the Blue Cave can be enjoyed here.
What is the best time to visit Stiniva Beach?
As Stiniva Cove and its breath-taking beach is often named among the top stretches in Dalmatia, you’ll want to time your visit right if you hope to enjoy it without the crowds. It’s a popular day trip with speed boat tours bringing visitors here around 10:30 every morning during the tourist season. Go well before that to enjoy time to yourself before they arrive or wait until they’ve left for the day, typically after 4 pm. When shade begins to cover the smooth, pebbly beach.
What are the essential sites to see in Vis?
There are multiple must-see sites in Vis Town, including the Archaeological Museum that’s housed in Levaman Fortress which contains a 4th-century BC bronze head of the goddess Artemis. Don’t miss St Jerome’s Church and Monastery which was built over an ancient Roman theatre or Tito’s Cave located along the way to another essential site, the top of Mount Hum which offers awe-inspiring views over Vis. As tours to the famous Blue Cave depart from Komiza, these boat trips are considered essential for any visitors to this island as well.
Is Vis worth visiting?
For anyone who wants to enjoy a blissful oasis with unspoiled natural scenery, authentic charms, historical sites, and delicious cuisine, Vis is well worth the visit. It’s a place to forget about the crowds and party scene, with a more laid-back feel away from the busy tourist path, while enjoying some of the region’s most stunning beaches, from the protected cove of Stiniva to the peaceful pebble stretch of Srebrna.
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