Things To Do
in Vis

Vis is a remote Adriatic island known for crystal-clear waters, rugged coastline, and a slow-paced lifestyle that invites relaxed exploration. The town of Vis and the fishing village of Komiža offer a blend of ancient history, traditional taverns, and scenic harbors connected by winding coastal paths. The island is famed for pristine coves like Stiniva and caves such as the Blue Cave reachable on day trips.

Accessible mainly by ferry from Split, Vis makes for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Dalmatian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive at Vis and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the charming streets of Vis town, absorbing the quaint Mediterranean architecture and vibrant local atmosphere. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Croatian breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Vis to learn about the island's rich history and cultural heritage. Afterward, take a scenic walk to the waterfront, where you can relax by the sea or indulge in a refreshing swim. For lunch, savor fresh seafood at a local restaurant while enjoying views of the harbor.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a beachfront bar where you can sip on a cocktail and enjoy the gentle sound of waves. Explore the town's vibrant nightlife, possibly catching live music or enjoying a quiet dinner under the stars. Wrap up your evening with a stroll along the waterfront, appreciating the serene ambiance.

day 2
Vis Island Tour
morning
:

Embark on an island tour to discover the hidden gems of Vis. Take a guided boat trip to the Blue Cave on Biševo Island, where you can marvel at the stunning light reflections in the water. Enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear sea and capture stunning pictures.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration by visiting the Green Cave, where you can swim again and snorkel in the vibrant underwater world. After this adventure, enjoy a packed lunch at a secluded beach, savoring the flavors while surrounded by beautiful nature. Spend the afternoon lounging at the beach and soaking up the sun.

evening
:

Return to Vis and experience a traditional Dalmatian dinner at a local konoba, an authentic tavern. Enjoy specialties like homemade pasta and grilled fish while conversing with locals. After dinner, take a leisurely walk to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and watch the stars light up the night sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Three-course meal for two (mid-range)$40-60
🏨Hotel room per night$70-120
🚆Public transport/ferry day pass$5-7
Coffee in a cafe$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning clear water and scenic coastline
  • Relaxed, small-island vibe with easy walking
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger destinations
  • Ferry schedules can limit quick island hops
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Gdje je WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Mogu li dobiti jelovnik na engleskom?" - Can I get the menu in English?
  • "Izvoli" - Here you go

Places to Visit in Vis

Visit one of these nice places.

Vis Town promenade at dawn

Soft light over fishing boats, pastel facades, and quiet streets before the day begins.

Fort George viewpoint

Ruins perched above the town offering sweeping views of Vis’s coastline and the open sea.

Komiža harbor at sunset

Colorful boats, nets drying in the breeze, and golden light reflecting off white-washed walls.

Stiniva Beach overlook

Dramatic cliffside vantage point framing the secluded cove and turquoise waters.

Blue Cave (Modra špilja) from Biševo

Azure-lit water chamber—best photographed during the brighter midday window when the light filters in.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vis

Vis’s cuisine centers on fresh Adriatic seafood, olive oil, and locally grown produce. Expect simple, flavorful dishes that showcase the island’s fishing heritage and rural flavors, often paired with Croatian wines and dusty-blue seabreeze.

Vis Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gregada

A classic Dalmatian fish stew with potatoes, onions, garlic, and white wine.

Must-Try!

Buzara

Shellfish (usually mussels or small prawns) cooked in garlic, white wine, parsley, and olive oil.

Grilled fish with olive oil

Fresh catch simply grilled and finished with olive oil, lemon, and herbs.

Rožata

Croatian custard dessert similar to flan, a sweet finish to a coastal meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Vis harbor fish market

Fresh seafood stalls with daily catches and seasonal specialties.

Olive oil and fig markets

Small stalls offering local olive oil, honey, and dried figs to take home.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vis experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. July and August are the hottest months, with sea temperatures often comfortable for swimming. Spring and autumn are pleasant for outdoor activities and fewer crowds, while winter remains mild with occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite 'Dobar dan' (good day) and maintain friendly eye contact.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly for religious sites; keep noise to reasonable levels, especially in residential areas. Respect local fishing traditions and private property.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally very safe for travelers. Watch for petty theft in crowded areas and be cautious on rocky or cliffside paths near coves. Always check weather and sea conditions before sea activities and be mindful of ferry schedules in shoulder seasons.

Tipping in Vis

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Croatia, 10-15% is typical if service charge isn’t included; round up for small meals or good service.

Payment methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common in Vis Town and Komiža; smaller shops may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

High temps and calm seas; peak crowds in July and August. Sunbathing, swimming, and boat trips are in full swing; reserve ahead for popular tours.

Autumn

Milder days and fewer crowds; sea remains pleasant for swimming into early autumn. Some services may wind down toward late October.

Winter

Mild but cooler with a higher chance of rain; many tourist-focused facilities operate on reduced hours. Quiet landscapes and atmospheric sea views.

Spring

Blooming vegetation and fresh coastal air; ideal for hiking and photography with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Nightlife Guide

Vis at Night

Vis offers a relaxed nightlife scene with beach bars and seasonal live music, mostly concentrated in Vis Town and Komiža during summer. Expect sunset drinks, casual dinners, and a few small clubs or venues that host DJs or acoustic sets in peak season. The pace is laid-back compared with larger Dalmatian towns, making it ideal for a mellow evening stroll by the sea.

Hiking in Vis

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal hike to Stiniva Cove

A rugged coastal path with sea views and a dramatic cove at the end.

Fort George Panorama Trail

Short hike to an old fortress with expansive views over Vis and the surrounding isles.

Vis–Komiža coastal trail

A scenic route linking Vis Town and Komiža with viewpoints and coves along the way.

Airports

How to reach Vis by plane.

Split Airport (SPU)

Main international gateway serving Vis; connect to Vis via a combination of road and ferry transfer.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vis is compact and very walkable, with most sights reachable on foot. Some hills and stairs exist in the old towns, but the coastline is enjoyable for strolls and early-morning runs. Bicycles and small scooters are popular for longer distances between Vis Town and Komiža.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Families with children enjoy beaches, calm coves, and easy trails.

Couples

Romantic getaways with sunset dining and sea views.

Backpackers

Smaller guesthouses and hostels appealing to budget travelers.

Retirees

Steady pace, scenic walks, and comfortable accommodations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

Ideal conditions for sailing and boat-based activities along the coast.

Diving and snorkeling

Clear waters with abundant marine life and underwater features.

Fishing

Traditional activity around the island, subject to local regulations.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic on the island is light; cars are permitted but parking can be limited in peak season. The main travel between Vis Town and Komiža is by road or boat, and ferries connect Vis to Split and nearby islands. In peak season, boats and ferries operate more frequently, but schedules can still influence day plans.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vis.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist in most taverns; ask for grilled vegetables, cheese plates, olive oil-based dishes, and pasta with tomato or mushroom sauces. Many places can accommodate requests with advance notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities on Vis include local clinics and pharmacies. For specialized care or emergencies, services on Split’s mainland are accessible by ferry and road connections. Travel insurance is recommended.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide