Vis Island: Croatia’s hidden gem for digital nomads, foodies and adventurers

From seaside strolls to vineyard tastings, Kartik Aaryan experiences the true magic of Vis Island. (Image: Instagram/ kartikaaryan and Canva)

Croatia’s coast needs little introduction. From Dubrovnik’s iconic stone walls to Hvar’s buzzing nightlife, travelers flock here each summer. But venture a little farther, beyond the crowded beaches and postcard-perfect towns, and you’ll discover a hidden gem whispered about by seasoned wanderers: Vis Island.

Floating quietly in the Adriatic, far from mainland hustle, Vis is where time slows. Soft beaches curl into hidden coves, fishing boats sway lazily in small harbors, and the scent of grilled fish mingles with sea salt and wild thyme. For travelers craving authenticity—sun, history, adventure, and local culture—Vis offers something rare: the Croatia you didn’t know you were missing.

Bollywood Glamour Meets Island Bliss

Recently in May 2025, Bollywood star Kartik Aaryan showed the world how to enjoy Vis in style. Beating the summer heat, he soaked up the island life and shared a delightful photo dump on Instagram. From sipping drinks by the shore and wandering the cobbled streets to indulging in seaside dinners and thrilling water adventures, Kartik’s escapade showcased the island’s charm—and inspired fans to add Vis to their travel bucket lists.

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A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan)

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Why Vis Steals Hearts

Vis has a rhythm that’s impossible to rush. Mornings begin with swims in turquoise waters that feel almost unreal. Afternoons glide into hikes across pine-covered hills or bike rides past centuries-old vineyards. Evenings are best spent in Komiža, the island’s postcard-perfect fishing village, where tables overflow with freshly caught seafood, paired with crisp local wines.

Despite its Hollywood cameo as a filming location for Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, Vis retains its authenticity. Beyond the tour groups heading to the Blue Cave, the island feels untouched, almost defiant in preserving its charm.

Adventure Without the Crowds

Vis is perfect for travelers craving more than just a sun lounger. Stiniva Bay, crowned one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, is tucked behind cliffs that open like a secret doorway to the sea. Kayaking here at sunrise feels like stepping into another world—calm waters, no engines, no crowds, just the rhythmic sound of your paddle slicing the Adriatic’s glassy surface.

Guided kayaking tours from Rukavac take you along dramatic limestone cliffs, past hidden coves few find alone. Early risers enjoy pristine beaches to themselves, with the Adriatic glittering like liquid light.

For hiking enthusiasts, trails wind through vineyards, olive groves, and pine forests, offering panoramic sea views. The Barjoška Trail, in particular, rewards solitude seekers with sweeping vistas and moments of pure serenity.

A Taste of Vis

Vis doesn’t just feed the soul—it delights the palate. Komiža’s waterfront taverns serve lobster, octopus, and fresh fish, best enjoyed with a glass of Vugava, the island’s signature white wine perfected over centuries.

For something unforgettable, dine at Konoba Jastožera, perched on stilts above the water. Despite its fame, it remains unpretentious, offering two-course seafood feasts at prices gentler than Croatia’s tourist-heavy spots.

Wine enthusiasts can explore rolling vineyards and sample local varietals, learning about Vis’s centuries-old winemaking traditions. Visit in September, and you may even witness harvest celebrations—grapes, music, laughter, and the intoxicating aroma of fermenting wine filling the air.

Where History Lingers

Vis is layered with history. Once a strategic military base closed to outsiders until 1989, the island preserves remnants of a world few outsiders knew existed. Explore WWII tunnels, bunkers, or hike to Tito’s Cave on Mount Hum, where the partisan leader hid from the Nazis. These echoes of the past give Vis a depth that typical beach resorts cannot replicate.

Travel That Feels Meaningful

Unlike other Croatian islands rushing to build resorts, Vis charts a different path. Sustainability is woven into its tourism story—eco-friendly stays, cycling tours, farm-to-table dining, and initiatives like WearActive, run by locals Xania and Craig Wear, who have called the island home for over 20 years. Their mission is simple: keep Vis wild, active, and authentic.

Here, travel feels purposeful. Cycling past vineyards, swimming in hidden coves, or savoring freshly caught fish isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about participating in a delicate balance that keeps the island’s magic alive.

Vis Island: Croatia’s hidden gem for digital nomads, foodies and adventurers

How to Get to Vis

Vis has no airport, so the only way to reach it is by ferry from the mainland. Most travelers fly into Split Airport (roughly 30 minutes from the ferry port) and take one of the following options:

Jadrolinija Ferry: Around 2h20m, air-conditioned, with indoor and outdoor seating, plus a snack bar. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.

Catamaran: 1h20m–2h depending on stops, indoor seating only. Faster, but fewer amenities.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: July and August bring ideal beach weather. May offers hills carpeted in wildflowers, while September provides warm weather, grape harvests, and fewer crowds.

Ferry Schedules: Summer schedules run up to three departures per day from Split; winter service is reduced, so plan accordingly.

Must-Do Experiences on Vis Island

1. Stiniva Beach – A secluded cove surrounded by cliffs, perfect for swimming and sunbathing in peace.

2. Explore Other Beaches – Including Komiža Beach, Novo Posta Beach, Gusarica Beach, Mala Pristiscina, and Plaža Barjoska. Each offers unique scenery and tranquility.

3. Blue Cave (Biševo) – Witness the magical blue light of this natural wonder; early morning visits ensure solitude.

4. Sunset Strolls in Vis Town – Quaint streets, fishing boats, and cafés make evening walks unforgettable.

5. Vineyard Tours and Wine Tasting – Sample local wines while exploring scenic vineyards.

6. Historical Adventures – Discover WWII tunnels and Tito’s Cave for a glimpse into the island’s storied past.

The Real Croatia You’ve Been Searching For

Vis Island isn’t about crowded resorts or overrun tourist traps—it’s about connection: to nature, history, and a slower, richer way of life. If Croatia’s coast is the main stage, Vis is the encore: quiet, soulful, and unforgettable. Once you’ve experienced it, you’ll wonder how this Adriatic treasure remained a secret for so long.