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What is worth seeing on Vis?
What is worth seeing on Vis?
Surrounding Islands
Surrounding Islands
Vis Island is surrounded by smaller islands and islets:
Biševo Island is located not far from Vis Island. It is best known to tourists for the Blue Cave (a sea cave illuminated in a distinctive white color due to its underwater opening), the Bear Cave, its Plavac wine, and sandy beaches. Biševo is among the most distant Croatian islands from the mainland. The island has three small harbors: in the western bays of Salbunara and Porat (Biševska luka), and on the eastern side, Mezuporat, where anchoring is prohibited due to an underwater electric cable. These bays, where there are also settlements with a few houses, serve as a docking point for regular boat connections with Komiža.
Nearby are the small islands of Svetac (St. Andrew) and Brusnik, and in the same direction, the volcanic islet of Jabuka, which once served as a training ballistic target for the JNA.
Ravnik is a small uninhabited islet not far from Rukavac Bay, home to the Green Cave (Zelena jama).
Budikovac consists of a group of islets (Mali and Veliki Budihovac and Senak) on the southeastern side of Vis Island, not far from Bargujac. Between the islands is a beautiful lagoon suitable for swimming and diving. The island has two beaches: one in the lagoon, which is developed and has two restaurants operating in the summer. The larger Budikovac has only one resident who operates a restaurant offering excellent seafood specialties. There are two pebble beaches on the island, each on one side, about three minutes apart on foot.
Palagruža is a group of rocky islands in the middle of the Adriatic Sea. The largest island, Velika Palagruža, has the most suitable anchorage on its southeastern side, called Velo Žalo or Južno zlato (Southern Gold). The bottom is sandy and rocky, with submerged rocks in some areas, so special caution is needed when anchoring. All anchorages in the archipelago are poorly protected from winds. If bad weather is forecasted, overnight stays on the island are not recommended. From both anchorages on Velika Palagruža, there is a hiking trail to the top of the island (92 m above sea level), where an imposing lighthouse built in 1875 stands. It is one of the few islands with a lighthouse crew.
Biševo Island
Budihovac
Caves
Caves
The Blue Cave on Biševo Island is a water cave on the eastern coast of Biševo in the Adriatic Sea. It is located in a small bay called Balun, approximately 4.5 nautical miles south of Komiža on Vis Island. The Blue Cave is one of the most famous natural attractions in the Adriatic, as its interior is illuminated in blue at certain times of the day. The refraction of sunlight on the sea surface, which peeks into the cave and reflects off the floor and walls, creates a stunning magical blue and silver glow. The intense blue color of the interior has been breathtaking visitors for years. The entrance to the cave can sometimes be quite an adventure. You can arrive by boat, which offers a smaller space for visitors who must duck if the wind is a bit strong to avoid exceeding the boat's height.
The Bear Cave is located on Biševo Island. Its beauty was recognized 40 years ago when it was declared a protected natural monument. The cave was named after its former resident, the Mediterranean monk seal, which is now classified as an endangered species. Visitors are fascinated by the apparent incongruity between the wide, open entrance of the cave and its interior, which becomes narrower and darker as you approach the heart of the cave.
The Green Cave is located on the southern side of the small uninhabited islet of Ravnik. It is recommended to visit the cave around noon, as the effect of the sun is best at that time. Cracks in the ceiling allow sunlight to penetrate into the cave in shades of green.
The Queen's Cave is a karst cave named after the legend of the Illyrian queen Teuta, who supposedly resided there from time to time. It consists of several chambers shaped by the sea over the centuries. This karst cave is located on the northern coast of Vis Island, about an hour's walk from the village of Oključna. The cave is somewhat difficult to access, so ropes have been installed in the back.
Tito's Cave is located on the path from Borovik to the highest point of Vis Island, Mount Hum (587 m). You can park your vehicle at a small parking area, from where a well-marked trail leads to the cave. The hike takes no more than 10 minutes.
The Blue Cave on Biševo
The Green Cave, island Ravnik
Architectural Monuments
Architectural Monuments
The island of Vis, one of the hidden gems of the Adriatic Sea, boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, evidenced by numerous architectural monuments. Its strategic position has attracted various civilizations over the centuries, from the Romans to the Venetians and the British, leaving a deep mark on the island. Each fortification, church, and historical building on Vis tells its own story of the past, wars, defense, and the life of its inhabitants. The diverse architectural styles and historical contexts represented by these landmarks are a true treasure for visitors who wish to discover not only the natural beauty but also the historical layers that shape the identity of this magnificent island.
Fort George III (Fortica): The Church of St. George, also known as Fortica, is the largest fortification on the island of Vis. It was built in 1813 by the British Royal Navy. For nearly two centuries, it served military purposes and was then abandoned for many years. Restoration began in 2012 when the company "European Travel Ventures" d.o.o. obtained a 25-year concession. Today, the fort has become one of the most interesting locations on the island, featuring an all-day lounge bar and restaurant. In the evenings, the garden transforms into a nightclub, and visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of the Vis Bay and the neighboring islands from the rooftop terrace, offering unforgettable sunsets. Access to the fort is possible by car or on foot in approximately 20 minutes from the town of Vis, passing by the Issa Hotel.
Batarija Fortress: Located in the center of Vis Bay, it was built by the Austrians. Previously known as "Battery Levaman," it was later renamed "Our Lady’s Fortress." It is surrounded by a moat and a high fortified wall on the southern side. Inside, there were once warehouses and dungeons. During the Battle of Vis in 1866, the battery played a crucial role when Italian boats penetrated the Vis harbor with the intent of conquering the island. After the war, it was repurposed as a hospital, during which the windows were expanded and the embankments slightly undermined. Today, the Batarija houses the Archaeological Museum.
Fort Bentich: South of the Church of St. George, overlooking Svitnja Bay, stands the English fort in the form of double-circular round towers, known as Bentich. It is named after Lord General William Cavendish Bentich, commander of the British forces in Sicily. Today, the remains of this fort are known as "Terjun."
Fort Robertson: Located between Fortica and Terjun, it was built during the British rule. This fort is an important part of the island's history, as it served as a defensive post.
Castle Grimaldi: This 16th-century fortress is situated on Komiža waterfront. It was built by Venetian authorities to protect the town from Turkish and pirate attacks. Today, it houses the Fishing Museum, which showcases the island’s rich maritime heritage.
Mladine’s Tower: The remains of this 17th-century fortification are located in the village of Borovik. Its history and architecture testify to the defensive strategies of that time.
Mazzoleni Tower: This fortification is placed in the center of Komiža waterfront and holds significant importance in the island's history. Its design and architectural elements reflect the time in which it was built.
Fortified Church of St. Roch: The fortified church of St. Roch is located in Komiža and is known for its historical and cultural significance.
Fort Manjarema: Situated on the hill above Komiža, it was built in the 19th century, but today only poorly preserved ruins remain.
Fort Wellington: Fortified at the eastern entrance to Vis harbor, it was constructed in the early 19th century and represents an important part of the island's military history.
Fort of St. Nicholas Church: This is one of the oldest preserved medieval fortifications in Dalmatia, representing an important part of the historical heritage.
Perasti's Tower: The oldest fortification in the area of Luka – the town of Vis, built in the early 17th century.
Fort George III - St. George Fortress (Fortica)
Batarija Fortress
Fort Wellington
Fort Bentich
Museums
Museums
The Archaeological Museum of Vis is located in the town of Vis within Batarija Fortress. It features a large collection of amphorae uniquely displayed as they were once stored in ship holds. It houses the largest collection of Hellenistic monuments in Croatia and also has an ethnographic section showcasing items reflecting the former lifestyle of the people of Vis - fishing, viticulture, and everyday life. The museum also offers guided tours for groups. Admission: adults 20 HRK, children 10 HRK. Opening hours (June 1 - October 1): 10 AM - 1 PM / 5 PM - 8 PM, with adjustments available for groups upon request. Address: Viškog boja 12, Phone: +385 21 711-729, Mobile: +385 91 799 0276.
The Fishing Museum in Komiža is located in the town of Komiža, within the fortress on the Komiža waterfront. It displays a rich collection of original items from the ship and fishing equipment of Komiža fishermen, who have been renowned as the best and most recognizable fishermen in the Adriatic for centuries. Items related to the former processing of fish, which was once well-developed in Komiža, are also exhibited. A replica of the famous Komiža "Gajeta Falkuša" also attracts much attention. The museum offers guided tours. Admission: 20 HRK. Opening hours: 10 AM - 12 PM / 7 PM - 10 PM. Museum address: Riva sv. Mikule 4, Phone: +385 21 713-019 (Komiža town).
"Falkušas were unique boats of the Komiža fishermen, measuring nine meters in length and just under three meters in width. Their mast stood nine meters high, capable of carrying a crew of six fishermen and around eight tons of fish. They were exclusively built from pine wood from Svetac Island, which was considered the highest quality at that time. Due to favorable winds, the "falkuša" sailed mainly at night to avoid being attacked by pirates."
Archaeological Museum of Vis - Amphorae
Model of the Gajeta Falkuša
Ancient Monuments
Ancient Monuments
The ancient history of Dalmatia has its roots in the 4th century BCE, specifically on the island of Vis. History enthusiasts can explore the remains of the largest Greek colony, Issa, located on the hill of Gradina near the town of Vis and in the archaeological park of Martvilo. The town is also known for its 16th-century monastery, which was built over the remains of an ancient theater on the Prirovo peninsula. Vis reveals its historical treasures in the Gospina batarija—a former fortress from the 19th century—where visitors can find an archaeological collection featuring the most beautiful bronze head of the goddess Artemis.
For guided tours, you can contact Mr. Boris Čargo at +385 98 179 4539.
Historical Site of the Roman Baths on Vis
Historical Site of the Roman Baths on Vis
The Roman Baths on the island of Vis are one of the island's most valuable historical landmarks and cultural heritage sites. Located in the town of Vis, they bear witness to the rich Roman legacy dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. These archaeological remains of an ancient Roman bathhouse, where Romans would relax and socialize, offer visitors insight into the daily lives of the island's ancient inhabitants.
The bathhouse was designed with numerous rooms, including pools of various temperatures, typical of Roman baths, where visitors alternated between warm and cold baths. Mosaics and architectural elements found at this site testify to the high level of craftsmanship and wealth that characterized Vis at the time.
Unfortunately, part of the baths suffered significant damage over time. In the 20th century, the baths were destroyed when they were covered in concrete due to new construction projects, causing irreversible damage to this precious site. Nevertheless, the Roman Baths remain a popular spot for history and culture enthusiasts, allowing visitors to step back in time to when Vis was an important trading center of the Roman Empire.
Bronze Head of the Greek Goddess Artemis
Historical Site of the Roman Baths on Vis
Military (Abandoned) Structures (Barracks, Fortifications, Hangars, and Underground Tunnels)
Military (Abandoned) Structures (Barracks, Fortifications, Hangars, and Underground Tunnels)
Near Vis was one of the largest naval battles in the 19th century: on July 20, 1866, the Austrian fleet, commanded by Admiral Tegetthoff, defeated the Italian fleet (Battle of Vis, 1866). Until 1918, the island belonged to Austria, was under Italian occupation for two years, and in 1920 came under Yugoslav administration. During World War II, liberated Vis became the main base for the People's Liberation Navy after the capitulation of fascist Italy in 1943, and from June 1944 until the liberation of Belgrade on October 20, 1944, it served as the headquarters of the Supreme Staff of the People's Liberation Army.
After World War II, a large naval-military base of the Yugoslav People's Army was gradually established on the island, consisting of more than twenty structures, including barracks, underground bunkers, trenches, and shelters, a heliport, a submarine anchorage, and a radar station. Access to the island was prohibited for foreigners until 1990. During the Croatian War of Independence, ships of the Yugoslav Navy from the military port of Lora in Split retreated to the island, causing access to the island to be restricted for several months. After their withdrawal to the Bay of Kotor, the island became part of Croatia.
Some tourist agencies offer guided tours to military attractions: "Crvene stine" (Tanjug), the missile base "Stupišće," the Allied airfield (Plisko polje), the Rogačić Barracks, the Samogor Barracks, the military shelter for submarines Jastog in Parja, the command center at Vela Glava, and Tito's cave (cave) on Hum.
In recent years, the story of building an airport in Vis has become a very topical subject and is always linked to the fact that there was an Allied base and a wartime airfield in Vis in 1944/45.
Former Submarine Anchorage in Vis
Diving Locations
Diving Locations
The island of Vis is a true paradise for those who love to dive and explore the underwater world. The waters around Vis are rich with various species of fish and sunken wrecks such as Vassilios, Fortunal, Teti, Brioni, B-17, B-24, Ursus, Galea, and more. Wreck diving is a journey into the past and is always associated with a certain degree of mystery and excitement.
There are several diving centers on Vis that offer diving courses and organize various dives.
"Wreck" Diving on Vis
Settlements
Settlements
On the island of Vis, there are two larger towns: Vis (northeast) and Komiža (southwest). They are connected by a 10-kilometer asphalt road that was built in 1983. In addition to these two settlements, there are several smaller villages: Ženo Glava, Dračevo Polje, Plisko Polje, Marinje Zemlje, Milna, and Ženka, Oključna, Podstražje, Podšpilje, Podselje, Rogačić, Parja, Rukovac, Brgujac, Stončica, and more.
The town of Vis itself was formed by the merger and collective naming of the settlements of Kut and Luka.
Town of Vis - Beach Baterija and Bridge
The island of Vis is known for its beautiful and diverse beaches. It is hard to find an island in Croatia where so many beautiful and different beaches are located in such a small area. From secluded coves to vibrant beaches, Vis offers a variety of options for all visitors. Here, everyone can surely find their piece of paradise and peace, whether they are looking for a quiet place to relax or a lively environment to enjoy summer activities. Here, everyone can surely find their piece of paradise and peace.
Churches of the Island of Vis
Churches of the Island of Vis
The island of Vis is rich in historical and cultural landmarks, among which the churches stand out as jewels that testify to the island's rich spiritual heritage. The churches on Vis are not only architectural monuments but also places where history, tradition, and local culture intertwine. Here is a list of some churches you can visit on the island of Vis:
Chapel of St. Magdalene: Built in the early 18th century on the slope of a hill south of the town of Vis. The chapel offers a beautiful view of the sea and surroundings.
Church of St. Margaret: On the northern side of the oldest part of the Church of St. Mary in Podselje leans the simple Gothic church of St. Margaret. Its architecture is characteristic of the transition from the Romanesque to the Gothic period.
Church of St. Cyprian and Justine: Located in the eastern part of the town of Vis, in the area of Kut, the church of St. Cyprian and Justine is known for its history and tales of protection from storms.
Church of St. Mary: The Church of St. Mary is located in the village of Podselje on the hill north of the largest Vis field, Veliko polje. You can feel the peace that the surroundings and the church itself provide.
Church of St. Cosmas and Damian: The lonely church of the two guardians of the sick, St. Cosmas and Damian, is located south of the town of Vis. A wonderful place for silence and meditation.
Church of St. Mary (Our Lady of the Fishermen): The Church of St. Mary "of the Fishermen" was built in the mid-16th century along the coast in Komiža. Legend has it that the church was built to protect fishermen from storms.
Church of St. Roch: On the Adriatic islands, fortified churches and monasteries were located, one of which is the church of St. Roch. The church was built as protection against pirate attacks.
Church of Our Lady of Planica: The Church of Our Lady of Planica is located along the road Vis – Komiža, between two small churches. Its daily visit symbolizes belonging to the local community.
Church of St. Blaise: This church is a typical coastal church, built mainly of stone and covered with stone slabs. Its frescoes are often the subject of research and restoration.
Church of St. Nicholas: Located in Podhumlje, right by the road, built in the 20th century. Special feature: The church has a beautifully landscaped park where local events are often held.
Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Built in the 19th century in Podšpilje. It has preserved numerous traditional elements from past centuries.
Church of St. Anthony of Padua: The Baroque chapel of St. Anthony of Padua is located in the village of Oključna. The church is known for its picturesque location and beautiful Baroque decorations.
Church of St. Sylvester: Built in the 16th century, where mass is celebrated every year on New Year's Eve. The church attracts visitors due to its unique celebration tradition.
Church of St. Anthony in Prigalija: The Church of St. Anthony is located east of the village of Podšpilje. Special feature: The church has a unique architectural design that sets it apart from others.
Church of St. Michael: On top of the hill east of Komiža, at over 300 meters above sea level, the church of St. Michael is built. It offers a stunning view of the surroundings and is a popular hiking spot.
Church of the Holy Spirit: This is one of the smallest and simplest churches on Vis, located on the highest peak of the island. The history of this church is wrapped in mystery and local legends.
Church of St. Nicholas (Muster): It is believed that this complex of the Benedictine monastery and church was built as early as the 9th century. It has preserved some of the oldest sacred artworks on the island.
Church of Our Lady of Spilica: Built in the 16th century, this is the central church of the town of Vis. The church has a rich history connected to local traditions and customs.
Church of St. George: Located at the left entrance to the Vis harbor, in the bay of St. George. The church holds a special place in the hearts of locals as it is associated with several traditional celebrations.
Church of St. Vick: The Church of St. Nicholas was built in Dole on the site where a settlement existed in the Middle Ages. It has preserved numerous artifacts that testify to the island's past.
Church of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows (New Church): The Church of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows was built in 1759 at the end of Jončićeva Street. The church is known for its Baroque details and spiritual events.
Church of St. Andrew: Built in the 15th century on the southern side of the island of Sveca. The church is known for its simple yet majestic architecture.
Church of St. Vitus: The Church of St. Vitus is located at the top of the hill of the same name, north of the village of Marine Zemlje. The church is popular for hiking and offers a unique view of the surroundings.
Church of St. Jerome and Franciscan Monastery: In the early 16th century, Franciscans built their monastery and the church of St. Jerome on the Prirov Peninsula. The monastery is known for its history and influence on local culture.
The artist Marina Klarić is creating with great sensitivity, capturing the beautiful ambiance of the old town center of Vis, graced by the stunning church of St. Cyprian and Justina.
Jakin's steps and the Church of St. Cyprian and Justina in the background
Church of Our Lady of Spilica
Church of the Holy Spirit
Cerkvev sv. Jerolima in franjevaški samostan
The island of Vis is known for its beautiful and diverse beaches. It is hard to find an island in Croatia where so many beautiful and different beaches are located in such a small area. From secluded coves to vibrant beaches, Vis offers a variety of options for all visitors. Here, everyone can surely find their piece of paradise and peace, whether they are looking for a quiet place to relax or a lively environment to enjoy summer activities. Here, everyone can surely find their piece of paradise and peace.
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