Stepping onto Vis Island, Croatia, where the magic of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again was brought to life, you'll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and quaint streets that echo scenes from the beloved musical. This guide will lead you through Vis Harbour, the quiet beauty of Stiniva Bay, and the charm of Komiza Village. Curious about how to get there, or perhaps where to dine like a local? Stay with us as we uncover each captivating corner of this cinematic haven.
Key Takeaways
- Vis Island was the primary filming location for Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, representing the fictional Greek island Kalokairi.
- Key filming spots include Vis Harbour, Trg Karolina, Stiniva Bay, Srebrena Beach, and the Franciscan Monastery on the Prirovo Peninsula.
- Vis Harbour's Trg Karolina Square and Dionis Pizzeria were transformed into a vibrant Greek market scene.
- Stiniva Bay features dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, accessible only by boat or a challenging hike.
- The historic Franciscan Monastery in Vis City served as a picturesque filming location, offering dining with a sea breeze.
Vis Island Overview
Vis Island captivates visitors with its enchanting scenery and rich cinematic history, making it the perfect destination for fans of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.
The island served as the real-life Kalokairi, the fictional Greek island from the sequel. Upon arrival, you'll first see Vis Harbour, where young Donna runs to catch the ferry.
Key filming spots like the Church of Saint Jerome, Srebrena Beach, Komiza, and Barjoska Bay are scattered across the island, each featuring prominently in the movie.
With majestic cliffs, crystal blue waters, and charming streets, Vis Island's picturesque landscapes shine throughout the film, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in the magical realm of Mamma Mia!
Getting to Vis Island
To reach Vis Island, you've got a couple of solid options:
take a ferry or hop on a catamaran from Split.
The ferry ride lasts about 2.5 hours, while the catamaran shaves it down to 1.5 hours.
Be sure to check the schedules in advance and book your tickets, which cost 49 Kuna each way.
Travel Options Available
Wondering how you'll get to the beautiful island of Vis? You can easily reach Vis by ferry or catamaran from Split. The ferry journey takes about 2.5 hours, while the catamaran is quicker at 1.5 hours. Flights into Split make it convenient to start your adventure. Here's a quick overview of your travel options:
| Transport Mode | Duration | Cost (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry | 2.5 hours | 49 Kuna |
| Catamaran | 1.5 hours | 49 Kuna |
| Flight to Split | Varies | Varies |
Staying overnight on Vis is highly recommended to fully experience the island's charm and its Mamma Mia locations. Various tours from Split also offer excursions to Vis, making your travel planning easier.
Ferry Schedules Overview
Planning your trip is easier when you know the ferry schedules for getting to Vis Island. The ferry journey from Split to Vis takes approximately 2.5 hours, while the faster catamaran takes only 1.5 hours.
Ferries and catamarans depart from Split several times a day, ensuring you have flexibility in planning your visit.
Cost: A one-way ticket costs 49 Kuna.
Departure Frequency: Multiple departures daily.
Travel Duration: Ferries take 2.5 hours, catamarans 1.5 hours.
Staying overnight on Vis is recommended to fully experience the island and its famous Mamma Mia locations. Various tours and excursions from Split and other mainland cities also offer convenient ways to discover Vis Island.
Vis Harbour Highlights
When you arrive at Vis Harbour, you'll be greeted by breathtaking coastal views that set the perfect backdrop for your adventure.
Staying near the harbor at the Corner of Joy guarantees you're close to all the action and stunning scenery.
Don't overlook the charming local attractions, like Trg Karolina and Dionis Pizzeria, which were highlighted in the film as a vibrant Greek market.
Breathtaking Coastal Views
Experience the enchantment of Vis Harbour, where breathtaking coastal views meet cinematic history. This picturesque harbor is your entry point to the island, famously changed into a Greek setting for 'Mamma Mia.'
You'll recognize it as the place where young Donna rushes to catch a ferry. The harbor's scenic beauty is complemented by the vibrant atmosphere created by cars, ferry-cruisers, and enthusiastic fans.
Stay close to the action at the highly-rated Corner of Joy accommodation.
While discovering, don't miss:
- Trg Karolina (Karolina Square), showcased as a Greek market.
- Dionis Pizzeria, whose front served as a shop in the film.
- The iconic stairs behind Dionis Pizzeria, still visible today.
Charming Local Attractions
Discover the charm of Vis Harbour through its unique local attractions, blending cinematic history with authentic Croatian culture.
As the primary Mamma Mia filming location, the harbour welcomes you with scenes where young Donna runs to catch the ferry, and Harry and Bill miss it. The area, converted to resemble a Greek setting, is bustling with cars, ferry-cruisers, and fans of the film.
Nearby, Corner of Joy offers highly-rated accommodations, ideal for your stay. Don't miss Trg Karolina and Dionis Pizzeria, which served as the Greek market setting in the movie. The front of Dionis Pizzeria doubled as a shop front, and you can still see the stairs behind it today, connecting you directly to the film's charm.
Exploring Trg Karolina
Trg Karolina, with its traditional buildings and Mediterranean charm, served as the Greek market setting in Mamma Mia 2 and remains a must-visit spot on the island of Vis.
The square's lively atmosphere, complete with charming cafes and shops, offers a genuine glimpse into the local culture.
You'll find Dionis Pizzeria, whose front was modified into a shop for the film. The stairs behind it, seen in the movie, are still there today, adding to the square's filmic allure.
Trg Karolina is an ideal starting point for navigating Vis's other Mamma Mia locations.
Dionis Pizzeria: Filming location and must-visit eatery.
Traditional Buildings: Authentic Mediterranean architecture.
Lively Atmosphere: Experience the vibrant local life.
Stiniva Bay Adventures
Set off on an unforgettable journey to Stiniva Bay, where the dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters set the scene for Donna and Sam's iconic boat ride in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.
Situated on the island of Vis, Stiniva Cove offers a peaceful and scenic setting, perfect for discovering and appreciating its natural beauty.
Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, the small beach provides an intimate and serene experience. With no major eateries or amenities nearby, you'll find a tranquil escape to immerse in the magical atmosphere.
Booking a boat tour or hiking to the cove reveals breathtaking vistas and hidden gems that made Vis a filming paradise for Mamma Mia!
Srebrena Beach Relaxation
Situated near the quaint fishermen's village of Rukavac, Srebrena Beach offers a serene retreat with its smooth white pebbles and tranquil ambiance.
Highlighted in a nighttime stroll scene between Donna and Sam in 'Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,' this beach remains a relatively undiscovered gem, providing a peaceful setting without major restaurants or shops nearby.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Relaxing on the smooth white pebbles
- Experiencing the cinematic backdrop seen in the film
- Immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Vis Island
Despite its cinematographic appearance, Srebrena Beach continues to offer a quiet, less crowded escape. It's perfect for those looking to unwind and appreciate the serene environment. Make sure to discover this hidden treasure on Vis Island.
Komiza Village Charm
Komiza, frequently showcased in Mamma Mia 2, enchants visitors with its historic architecture and lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
Located on the western coast of Vis Island, Komiza's charming harbor and narrow streets lined with colorful houses provide a quintessential Croatian island setting. The town's scenic landscape, complete with local shops and a bustling harbor, offered an authentic backdrop for the film.
You can discover Komiza's rich history by visiting the Fishermen's Museum, which highlights the island's maritime heritage. Don't miss the 500-year-old Venetian tower, a significant historical landmark.
Walking through Komiza, you'll feel like you're stepping into scenes from the movie, surrounded by the same vibrant and welcoming environment that captured the hearts of the Mamma Mia 2 cast and crew.
Dining at Jastožera Restaurant
At Konoba Jastožera Restaurant, you'll enjoy a unique dining experience with a stunning view of the sea and a touch of cinematic history. Located within the historic Franciscan Monastery on the Prirovo Peninsula in Vis City, this restaurant was a filming location for 'Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.'
The open-air setup allows you to savor dishes with a invigorating sea breeze, right where Harry and Bill dined in the movie.
Cinematic Setting: The table used in the film is a highlight.
Historic Venue: Built in the 16th century using local marble.
Authentic Cuisine: Food items were shipped from Greece for filming.
Make sure to visit St. Jerome's Church, built on the foundations of a Roman theater.
