Island Tours from Split are one of the best ways to explore the Croatiaia’s islands without packing up and moving every night.
I’ve travelled independently through Croatia, and Split stands out for one simple reason:
you can experience stunning islands, swimming spots, and historic towns on relaxed day trips, then return to the same accommodation in the evening.
In this guide, I’ll show you the best island tours from Split, which ones suit different travel styles, and how to choose an option that feels enjoyable — not rushed.
👉 Check island tour availability from Split
Why Base Yourself in Split for Island Hopping
Split has:
- A large, well-organised harbour
- Frequent departures to nearby islands
- Excellent day tours that handle transport and timing
As a result, this makes it ideal if you:
- Prefer not to haul luggage onto ferries
- Want a balance of sightseeing and rest
- Like the idea of “done-for-you” day trips
Most island tours leave directly from Split Harbour, within easy walking distance of the Old Town.
Best Island Tours from Split (At a Glance)
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview:
- Hvar & Brač – lively towns + famous beaches
- Blue Cave & Vis – natural beauty and quieter islands
- Šolta – relaxed, traditional, close to Split
Below, I’ll explain who each tour suits best.
Hvar & Brač Day Tours (Most Popular Choice)
Best for: First-time visitors who want variety
These tours usually include:
- A visit to Hvar Town (historic centre, harbour views)
- A stop at Brač, often near Zlatni Rat beach
- Swimming and free time
- Boat transport included
Hvar is stylish and busy, while Brač feels more laid-back — a good combination if you want to see two different island styles in one day.
Good to know:
Hvar can be crowded in peak summer, but organised tours handle logistics smoothly, which removes a lot of stress.
👉 See Hvar & Brač day tours from Split
Blue Cave & Vis Day Tours (Natural Beauty Focus)
Best for: Nature lovers and photographers
This is one of the most visually striking tours from Split and usually includes:
- The Blue Cave on Biševo Island
- Time on Vis, which feels less developed
- Swimming stops in clear turquoise water
The Blue Cave is famous for the way sunlight turns the water an intense blue — something you can only experience by boat.
Important note:
This is a longer day (often 10–12 hours) and can involve speedboats. It’s best if you’re comfortable on the water and happy with a full day out.
👉 Check Blue Cave & Vis tours from Split
Šolta Island (Quiet & Traditional)
Best for: Slower travel, fewer crowds
Šolta is much closer to Split and often overlooked, which makes it appealing if you want:
- A calmer pace
- Local food and wine
- A less touristy feel
Tours here are usually shorter and more relaxed, with time to swim and explore a small village. For those who prefer gentler days, this can be an excellent option.
👉 See Šolta island tours from Split
Should You Do a Tour or Travel Independently?
Obviously, you can visit some islands independently by ferry, but tours are often the easier choice if:
- You’re short on time
- You want to see multiple places in one day
- You don’t want to worry about ferry schedules
- You prefer someone else to handle logistics
Overall, I’ve found that organised tours in Croatia work particularly well when:
- You want clarity
- You want to avoid transport confusion
- You don’t want small planning mistakes to eat into your day
Book Island Tours from Split
Island tour availability changes quickly in peak season.
The easiest way to:
- Compare options
- See timings
- Read recent reviews
…is to book through a platform that lists multiple operators in one place. Undoubtedly, this is better than walking the harbour and negotiating on the day.
👉 Compare island tours from Split here
How Many Island Tours Should You Do?
In general, if you’re staying:
- 2–3 nights in Split → choose one island tour
- 4–5 nights → two tours with a rest day in between
In fact, trying to do too much can be tiring — especially in summer heat. Often, one well-chosen tour often leaves a better impression than several rushed ones.
Final Thoughts
Split gives you the freedom to experience Croatia’s islands without constant moving or complicated planning.
Lastly, whether you’re drawn to:
- The glamour of Hvar
- The natural beauty of the Blue Cave
- Or the quieter pace of Šolta
…there’s an island day trip that fits comfortably into a Split-based stay.
