Imagine a place where history whispers through ancient ruins and natural beauty dances across the landscape.
Nestled on the Istrian peninsula, Pula serves as the gateway to Croatia's enchanting Adriatic coast. This charming town is your starting point for an island-hopping journey like no other.
Each island, from the Brijuni National Park to the serene shores of Unije, has its own story to tell.
Yet, with so many islands to explore, how do you decide where to begin? The answer lies just beyond the horizon.
Brijuni Islands
Discover the Brijuni Islands, a Croatian National Park, and enjoy their amazing biodiversity and historical treasures spread across 14 small islands.
Getting there is simple: just take a scenic ferry ride from Fažana, a lovely coastal town in Croatia.
Once on the Brijuni Islands, hop on a safari tour to explore lush landscapes filled with diverse wildlife, like free-roaming peacocks and a herd of Angus cattle.
History buffs can check out the remains of Roman villas and other ancient ruins that tell the islands' long story.
With a mild Mediterranean climate and peaceful beaches, the Brijuni Islands are perfect for those wanting both adventure and relaxation.
Don't forget your camera—the views are stunning!
Cres
Explore the wonders of Cres, the largest island in the Adriatic Sea, known for its varied landscapes and unique wildlife. Sitting in the Kvarner Gulf, Cres is a blend of rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and lush Mediterranean greenery. It's a haven for the griffon vulture, with nature reserves providing a safe home for these rare birds.
In the historic town of Osor, you can walk through scenic medieval walls and discover how it connects Cres to other Croatian islands. Whether you arrive by car or on foot, there's plenty to see and do.
Roman villas and Byzantine fortifications tell stories of the past, while tranquil beaches and hiking trails offer a chance to relax and explore. Cres is a treasure trove of experiences along the beautiful Adriatic coast.
Lošinj
Lošinj is a gem in the Kvarner Gulf, famous for its mild Mediterranean climate and lush greenery. The island's main town, Mali Loőinj, features a historic old town and a charming harbor.
Dive into history at the Apoxyomenos Museum, which houses an amazing ancient bronze statue of an athlete.
For outdoor lovers, Lošinj offers great hiking and cycling trails that let you enjoy the island's natural beauty. Water sports fans can swim, snorkel, or sail in the clear waters.
Known as the 'island of health,' Lošinj's clean air and clear waters are perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Susak
Susak, off the western coast of Istria, is a small island known for its unique sand dunes and peaceful atmosphere. This quiet island offers a special geological feature: sand dunes that shape a one-of-a-kind landscape in the area. Home to about 200 residents, Susak is only reachable by boat, with ferries running from Pula. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful escape from the busy world.
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Western coast of Istria | Accessible by boat |
| Population | ~200 residents | Main settlement: Village of Susak |
| Unique Attraction | Sand dunes | Rare geological phenomenon |
| Access | Ferry from Pula | Ideal for a tranquil getaway |
Exploring Susak is a delightful experience, making it a must-visit on your island-hopping adventure.
Unije
Unije, nestled in the Kvarner Gulf, is perfect for anyone craving a peaceful escape. With a population of around 200, this charming island offers a serene vibe that's hard to resist.
You can easily get there by ferry from Pula or the Croatian mainland, with public transport running all year.
Once you arrive, Unije welcomes you with its stone houses, family-run restaurants, and fishing boats dotting the coast. It's a great spot for kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring olive groves.
If you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins and seabirds while wandering the tranquil hiking trails. For nature lovers, Unije is paradise.
Rab
Exploring the island of Rab is like stepping into a charming blend of history and natural beauty. Start with Rab Town, where medieval streets and Gothic-Renaissance buildings tell stories of the past. Wander through these streets, and you'll come across Romanesque churches, like the 12th-century St. Justine's Cathedral, which stands as a testament to the island's rich history.
For beach lovers, Rajska Beach is a must-see, with its pristine sandy shores perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Getting to Rab is easy—just take a car ferry from Stari Grad or Hvar Town.
Whether you're hiking through scenic trails, cycling around the island, or diving into various water sports, Rab offers a delightful adventure for everyone. Let its history and natural beauty make your island-hopping trip unforgettable.
Ilovik
Ilovik, located in the Kvarner Gulf of the Adriatic Sea, is a peaceful island that charms visitors with its calm scenery and friendly locals. With about 100 permanent residents, Ilovik is the perfect spot for a quiet escape along the Croatian coast.
Getting to Ilovik is easy. You can take a foot passenger ferry, car ferry, or a local ferry. These ferries connect Ilovik to Lošinj and Susak. At the ferry terminal, you'll find all the info you need about different ferry routes, making travel easy for everyone, even if you don't have a car.
| Ferry Type | Routes Available |
|---|---|
| Foot passenger ferry | Ilovik – Lošinj, Ilovik – Susak |
| Car ferries | Lošinj – Ilovik |
| Local ferry | Ilovik – nearby islands |
| Ferry terminal | Central Ilovik |
| Ferry routes | Along the Croatian coast |
This makes Ilovik an ideal stop for a relaxing break.
