Things To Do
in Tun Veli

Tun Veli is a tiny Adriatic islet off Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, famed for turquoise waters and rugged olive-strewn cliffs. The village mood is timeless, with stone houses, a sleepy harbor, and a pace that slows to match the sea. Visitors come for sun, sea, and sunset views, plus easy boat access from nearby towns.

In summer the island comes alive with tavernas and markets, while spring and autumn offer quieter trails and snorkeling opportunities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Tun Veli and check into your charming local accommodation. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful coastal promenade to soak in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Stop by a cozy café to enjoy a warm cup of coffee and a delicious pastry while planning your day's adventures.

afternoon
:

Embark on a guided tour of the historic sites in Tun Veli, including the ancient town square and the intriguing local museum. Dive into the local culture by chatting with artisans and discovering artisanal crafts unique to the region. Enjoy a scenic lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes that the area is famous for.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the beachfront for a breathtaking view of the horizon while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Croatian dishes, enhancing your culinary skills. After dinner, take a moonlit walk along the shore, listening to the gentle waves lapping at the beach.

day 2
Island Hopping
morning
:

Take an early morning ferry to explore the nearby islands, starting with the stunning Kornati Islands. Enjoy the crisp sea breeze as you cruise between the islands, admiring the pristine waters and rugged coastlines. Arrive at the first stop to immerse yourself in its tranquil beauty and natural landscapes.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the clear waters, discovering vibrant marine life and hidden coves. Pack a picnic or picnic lunch provided by the ferry service to enjoy on one of the secluded beaches. Take time to relax on the sandy shores before continuing your exploration of the other islands.

evening
:

Return to Tun Veli in the evening and unwind at your accommodation. Treat yourself to a traditional meal at one of the local konobas, where friendly locals serve hearty dishes. After dinner, enjoy some live music at a local bar, experiencing the culture and energy of Croatian nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee/tea$2-4
🏨Guesthouse per night$60-120
🚤Boat transfer/ferry$5-20 per trip
🧀Local cheese and bread$3-7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastline and sunsets
  • Quiet, authentic island experience away from big crowds
  • Limited nightlife and few big-city amenities
  • Seasonal services may be reduced outside peak season
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gdje je toalet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Govorite li engleski?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ja sam turista" - I am a tourist
  • "Laku noć" - Good night
  • "Molim vas" - Please

Places to Visit in Tun Veli

Visit one of these nice places.

Southern cape sunset view

Golden-hour light over calm Adriatic with pine silhouettes and turquoise water.

Harbor quay at dawn

Colorful boats, ropes, and reflections illuminated by soft morning light.

Coastal path overlooks

Narrow trail along the cliffs offering sea-outlooks and coves below.

Old stone stairwell with olive trees

Texture-rich composition of weathered stone, greenery, and sea glimpses.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tun Veli

Tun Veli’s cuisine centers on fresh seafood, olive oil, and simple, flavorful Dalmatian preparations. Expect light, seasonal dishes that highlight the sea and the land.

Tun Veli Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Crni rižot (black risotto)

Creamy squid ink risotto with tender seafood, a Dalmatian specialty often available at island konobas.

Must-Try!

Grilled fish with olive oil and lemon

Freshly caught fish simply grilled and finished with local olive oil, herbs, and lemon.

Pršut i ovčji sir

Dalmatian prosciutto paired with local sheep cheese, perfect as an appetizer or with bread.

Salata od morskih plodova

Seafood salad featuring octopus, shrimp, and other fish in a bright vinaigrette.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local fish market

Daily catches displayed by island-based fishermen; great for fresh buys or to ask for a prepared tasting plate.

Pierfront snack stalls

Casual bites like grilled sardines, calamari, and traditional pastries near the quay.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tun Veli enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Sea breezes cool the heat in summer, while spring and autumn offer mild conditions ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite 'Dobar dan' (good day) and a handshake are common; address locals politely.

Dress

Respectful attire when visiting churches; swimwear is appropriate only at the beach, not in town.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally very safe for travelers. Exercise standard precautions against petty theft in crowded areas and on boats; stay hydrated under the sun and use sun protection. Life jackets are recommended for boating and water activities.

Tipping in Tun Veli

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included; round up for small towns is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash (HRK) and cards are widely accepted; some small vendors and boat operators may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make for comfortable hiking and photography.

Summer

Hot and sunny; bring sun protection, water, and light clothing; peak tourist activity. Perfect for swimming and evening strolls.

Autumn

Pleasant weather with fewer crowds; sea remains warm enough for late swims and snorkeling.

Winter

Cool and quiet with shorter opening hours in some services; ideal for peaceful shoreline walks and coastal photography.

Nightlife Guide

Tun Veli at Night

The nightlife on Tun Veli is low-key, centered on seaside taverns and small bars. In peak season you can find live music at a waterfront konoba, but large clubs are scarce and the pace stays relaxed.

Hiking in Tun Veli

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal Loop Trail

A scenic loop along the shore with viewpoints over turquoise bays.

Olive Grove hillside path

Gentler hike through olive groves offering sea glimpses.

Airports

How to reach Tun Veli by plane.

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)

Major international gateway; transfer to Tun Veli typically involves a road and boat sequence and can take several hours.

Split Airport (SPU)

Convenient for northern routes; transfer to coastal towns may be longer but frequent.

Mostar International Airport (OMO)

Smaller option in nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina; limited international connections; longer transfer to the island.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tun Veli is highly walkable with most points of interest reachable on foot. The island has some steep or uneven paths, so sturdy footwear is recommended; vehicle traffic is minimal.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Small fishing and hospitality community managing the island’s operations.

Seasonal visitors

Tourists peak in summer, with some returning in spring and autumn.

Families

Local families running guesthouses, konobas, and fishing-related activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

Popular along the coast due to favorable winds and scenic routes.

Kayaking

Common activity around Tun Veli for exploring coves and caves.

Swimming/ snorkeling

Clear waters ideal for underwater exploration.

Transportation

Traffic

Low car traffic on the islet; boats connect to mainland towns seasonally. In towns, streets are narrow and parking limited. Public transport is limited; ferries and local boats are the main means of travel between islands and the mainland.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tun Veli.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Rely on grilled vegetables, cheese platters, salads, and olive oil-based dishes; ask for egg or dairy-free options where needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in nearby larger towns with clinics and emergency services. On-island facilities are limited, so travelers should know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic in a larger town and carry any regular medications. In emergencies, local coast guard or medical transfer arrangements may apply.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide