Vis

In many ways, Vis is the most fascinating of all the Croatian islands. This is mainly due to the fact that the island was entirely closed to foreigners in the days of Yugoslavia (as it was used as a naval base), only being opened to visitors in 1989. The island also has an interesting British connection – it was used as a Allied Forces base during World War II (and was the supposed hideout of Partisan/resistance leader Josip Broz Tito) with some Royal Navy and RAF soldiers being stationed there. (See this fascinating video from The Daily Telegraph on the return of some veterans to the island in 2011: Croatian island of Vis remembers World War Two role).

The island is also the most westerly of the larger Croatian islands, at about 60km/35 miles from the mainland. However, the island has a population of only around 5,000 people.

Vis
Komiza

Why visit Vis?

Primarily for the reason that the island was closed to tourism for so long, but also because of its location, it’s often considered somewhere for an “off-the-beaten-track” holiday in Croatia or a great place to go to try something a bit different – especially for a peaceful and relaxing break.

The island produces some of Croatia’s most exclusive wines, such as Plavac and Vugava.

In recent years, Vis has become ‘famous’ as being one of the filming locations for Mamma Mia 2! (In which it ‘pretended’ to be a Greek island!)

Highlights on the island itself include the two larger towns of Vis Town and Komiza, whilst visiting the smaller nearby island of Bisevo – famous for its Blue Cave (Modra Spilja) – is a must!

For more, see our guides to:

Day Trips from Vis

As we’ve mentioned, a day trip to the tiny island of Bisevo is an absolute must, whether to visit the famous Blue Cave or just to relax on one of the sandy beaches.

Similar to the above is the Green Cave on the islet of Ravnik which is just off the coast of Vis. Here, the water in the cave reflects the colour of the green algae growing on the cave walls and ceilings, and it is possible to swim in the cave’s waters.

Ask at an agency on Vis for either of the above day trips.

Accommodation

There are four hotels on the island, one in Komiza and three in Vis Town. You can easily find private accommodation, and staying in a villa on the island is also possible. See our Accommodation on Vis section for more details.

Tourist Offices on Vis

Vis Tourist Office at Setaliste Stare Isse 5, 21480 Vis, Tel: 021 717 017, Fax: 021 717 018, Email: tzg-visa@st.t-com.hr

Travel Agencies

Check out Agency Ionois close to the harbourfront in Vis Town for excursions and bike, moped and car rental…plus friendly advice!

More information on Vis