Vis island military history is one of the most surprising stories in Croatia. Vis is a small island in the Adriatic Sea, about 65 minutes from Split by private boat. For many years it was a secret army base, and foreigners could not visit.
Today it is calm and green, with fishing towns and good wine. But the old tunnels, forts and caves are still there. This guide explains the story in simple words and shows you how to visit.
A short history of Vis at war
Table of Contents
Vis sits far out in the sea. This made it very useful for armies. Over the years, many powers wanted it.
| Time | What happened | What you can still see |
|---|---|---|
| 1811 | British ships fought French ships near Vis in the Napoleonic wars. Britain used the island as a naval base. | British-built forts, such as Fort George above Vis town |
| 1866 | The Battle of Vis (also called Lissa). Austria beat Italy in a big sea battle near the island. | Memorials and graves in Vis town and Komiža |
| 1944 | In the Second World War, Tito, the Yugoslav partisan leader, based his headquarters on Vis. Allied forces also used the island. | A cave on Mount Hum linked to Tito, and an old air strip on the island plain |
| 1950s–1989 | Vis was a closed Yugoslav army base. Foreigners could not enter. | Tunnels, bunkers and hidden harbours along the coast |
Note: dates are from public history sources. Check opening times of each site before you visit.
Why did the army close Vis?
The island is far from the coast, so ships and planes could not easily watch it. The army built tunnels in the rock to hide boats and weapons. Many of these tunnels are next to small bays. After 1989 the island opened, and people began to visit.
Places to see on Vis
Vis town is the main town on the island. Komiža is a fishing town on the west side. Both have old streets, small harbours and good food. Fort George is an old British fort above Vis town. It has a fine view of the bay.
Mount Hum is a hill with a cave that people link to Tito in 1944. Ask a local guide to take you there. The road is rough, so do not go without a guide.
Travel time from Split (about)
How to get to Vis from Split
| Option | Time | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Public ferry | About 2 h 20 min | Cheapest. Fixed times. Can cancel in bad weather. |
| Private taxi boat (Dalmatia Express) | 65 min | 24/7 on your schedule. Door-to-door. Sails when catamarans cancel. Split Airport pickup available. €460–1,000 per boat, fair for groups of 4–10. |
A private boat is a good choice if you have a group or little time. You choose the time and you do not wait in a queue. See the Split to Vis taxi boat or contact us for a quote.
Skipper’s tip: Go to Vis for at least one night. The ferry day trip leaves very little time. If you also want the Blue Cave, read our Blue Cave guide and how to get to Vis island.
Map of Vis
More guides
Read about Komiža or Vis town, the best islands from Split, and the water taxi price in Split. Starting from the airport? See Split Airport transfers.
FAQ
Is Vis island a military base?
No. Vis was a closed Yugoslav army base for decades. It opened to visitors in 1989. Today it is a quiet tourist island, and you can see old tunnels and forts.
Why was Vis closed to foreigners?
Vis was a key army base in the Adriatic Sea during the Yugoslav period. Foreign visitors could not enter until 1989.
Did Tito really stay on Vis?
Yes. In 1944, Tito, the Yugoslav partisan leader, had his headquarters on Vis. Many guides show a cave on Mount Hum linked to this time.
Can I visit the military sites on Vis?
Yes, many old sites are open or visible from outside. Opening times change, so ask a local guide or your hotel before you go.
How do I get from Split to Vis?
The public ferry and catamaran are the cheapest. A private taxi boat takes about 65 minutes and leaves when you want.
How much is a private boat from Split to Vis?
In 2026 a private boat from Split to Vis costs from €460 to €1,000 per boat, depending on the boat and group size.
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