1. Brac
Brac is a rugged island with many rocky beaches. The local stone is of such high quality that it was used in the construction of the Hungarian Parliament building in Budapest and the White House in Washington DC, USA.
The main attraction here is the hiking trail to Vidova Gora - the highest peak of all the Croatian islands at 778 meters. From this peak, you can easily see the whole city of Split.
Another great walk is through the gorge to the Blaca Monastery built on a hillside. Another popular tourist attraction is the beautiful beach in the island town of Bol, Zlatni Rat, or Golden Horn. It is arguably the most famous beach in Croatia with crystal clear blue waters and pine trees.
2. Korcula
Korcula offers a wide range of local cafes, bars, restaurants and beautiful natural beaches. The eastern part of Korcula is the Lumbarda Peninsula, which has many sandy beaches, which is quite unique in a Croatian landscape that is mostly rocky.
The local wines are also quite appealing, notably the special Grk grape grown only on Korcula. You can taste them at Bire, a winery run by a local family and producing excellent wines.
3. Page
If you are a fan of lamb or cheese, you should visit Pag. Many tourists say that the best lamb they have ever tasted is the lamb from Pag. The lamb is cooked well on a traditional peka oven, giving it a unique taste. The hard sheep cheese of this famous island is also particularly appealing.
Food aside, Pag is also known for its wild and vibrant dance parties in the northern town of Novalja. However, the island capital, Pag Town, has retained its historical significance and is a fun place to explore.
4. Mljet
If you are coming to Croatia to get closer to nature, this island is for you. Mljet is like an emerald, with half of its area protected as a national park.
In Mljet, you can experience many fascinating things: take a dip in the clear blue sea in the tree-lined bay, or swim in the salty lakes located inland. Soon you will forget that the modern world exists.
Jumping on a bike is also a great way to get around the island as you will have the chance to admire the incredibly natural and unspoiled landscapes of Mljet.
5. Vis
If you've visited the charming islands of Scotland, the Croatian island of Vis might look a little familiar to you, with its characteristic rugged, winding beaches.
Head to Vis Town for unique architecture and ornate window treatments and charming balconies. The Kut district is home to some of the most beautiful buildings and some of the best seafood restaurants in town.
The residential area of Komiža on the other side of the island is also charming with its Venetian architecture and delicious lobster restaurants. Komiža is best known, however, for its diving and snorkeling trips to the famous Blue Grotto on Biševo Island.
Guests can also visit and stay at the beautifully restored Wear Active historic villa, which is suitable for activities such as mountain biking, kayaking, wild swimming and hiking.
6. Elaphiti Islands
The Elaphiti Islands are often packed with tourist boats from Dubrovnik circling the bay. Locals also use the local ferry Jadrolinija to travel between the islands of Sipan, Kolocep and Lopud. Sipan is the largest island, with more than half the population (around 450 inhabitants) and it also has the best beaches.
7. Hvar
Hvar is one of Croatia's most beautiful islands. It is famous for its party scene and the docking of expensive yachts owned by millionaires.
The town of Hvar on the island of Hvar is charming with its Venetian architecture (a style of architecture that combines the pointed arches of Gothic with Roman and Ottoman styles).
Prices in local restaurants tend to be high, but the quality of service is excellent.
