The island of Vis is a pearl among Croatian Adriatic islands, left untouched by the development of tourism for so many years – due to its strategic location on the open sea, it served as a military zone for many years.

Wine making has a long history on Vis Island, dating back to the Greeks, and it’s very much alive today. Vugava is the white grape behind Vis’s wines, probably brought to the island by the Roman army. It’s a delicate grape to cultivate as it must be harvested at exactly the right time.
Winemakers have thrived on Vis since the Greeks roamed the island, with Vugava and Plavac being the trademark grapes of Vis. While there are a handful of local wineries to explore on the island, we suggest the unique Lipanović, with its cellar housed in a Yugoslav military tunnel. Another must-visit is Aerodrom Gostionica, a no-frills wine house located on a former military airstrip. They also serve up Dalmatian snacks and the famous Komiža pie!

Towns of Island Vis

Vis: Located in the north-eastern part of the island is Vis town. Initially settled by the Greeks as ‘Issa’, Vis town today is the ‘capital’ of the island. Situated in a well-protected bay, Vis is increasingly popular among boaters, as baroque buildings, Roman baths, a Franciscan monastery, defensive towers, an archeological museum, and palaces decorate the old town and shore.

Komiža: This famous fishing village has transformed in recent years thanks to tourism and its proximity to the Blue Cave (more on that below). With roots dating back to at least the 12th century, Komiža is recognizable thanks to its hilltop ​​Romanesque church and monastery dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and merchants, among other things. The center of the town is marked by a castle erected in 1585 to defend against pirates, while colorful windows decorate old stone houses, vibrant cafes, and local restaurants.

Biševo & Blue Cave: Biševo is a tiny islet located 5 nautical miles from Komiža, and while there isn’t much to do here for you or its 15 residents, it is home to one of Dalmatia’s most popular tourist attractions – the Blue Cave. Authorized boats can take you into the colorful cave, which is illuminated at certain times of the day when the sun peeks through its crack. The best (and busiest) time to visit is between 11-1 pm, but if you’re not a fan of long queues, the morning hours can be equally as beautiful.

Activities

Blue Cave: We already filled you in on the Blue Cave experience, and while it may seem like the most touristy thing to do on the island (it is), it’s worth a visit. The wait to enter the cave will likely be longer than your experience inside the cave (around 10-15 minutes), and no, swimming is not allowed. Still, it is a masterpiece of Mother Nature and one of the top experiences on your Croatian sailing holiday.

Military tour: We have already mentioned that Vis abounds in military history, all of which you can explore on a guided tour. A WWII submarine tunnel, bunker, atomic shelter, airport, a radar station, and more is uncovered on an off-road tour, making it a great half-day escape.

Where to eat and drink on Island Vis

Vis restaurants benefit from a bounty of natural ingredients and a love of good cuisine, which help create a keener culture of quality restaurants, bistros and konobas than should be expected from such a small island.

Restaurant „Val“, Vis, port Kut – Savor Mediterranean cuisine that will combine many elements of culinary traditions. Visit this restaurant for a break and degust good fried fish, asparagus risotto and casserole. Choose delicious house wine, you will hardly regret it. The warm atmosphere of Restoran Val makes customers feel relaxed and have a nice time. This place is recommended for the cool staff.

Vila Kaliopa, Vis Town – In the exotic gardens of the 16th-century Gariboldi mansion, Villa Kaliopa is an upmarket restaurant frequented by yachting enthusiasts. Tall palm trees, bamboo and classical statuary provide the setting for a menu of Dalmatian specialities, which change daily. It hosts occasional concerts and exhibitions.

Boccadoro – Vis Town – new kid on the block and the house restaurant of the Hotel San Giorgio directly opposite across a narrow alley, Boccadoro completes the four-star atmosphere. Open to the general public, this à la carte eaterie is a fusion of international and traditional. The Italian chef cooks up top-standard fish, a risotto with rosemary and cheese from Pag, and wonderful desserts made from carob flour (of which there is an abundance on the island)

Pojoda – Expect a fabulous setting, outstanding cuisine and fair prices at the best restaurant in Vis. The food is prepared to perfection: Dalmation standards plus standout dishes such as prawn and barley risotto and lentil and squid brodet. Tempting appetisers include octopus salad and seafood cocktail. The service is genuinely friendly and very efficient.

Popular anchorages on the island Vis

Among the yachts that sail around Vis, the most attractive anchorages with buoys are the coves Stončica, Stiniva and Ruda. On the islet of Budikovac and in the cove of Rukavac, buoys can be used only by guests of the restaurants. The northern coves of Rogačić, Gradac, Okljucna, and the southern ones of Vela Smokova, Milna, Zaglav, Mala Travna are stunning anchorage places.