The Ultimate Guide to Brač Island, Croatia

If you’re looking for a destination that will leave you breathless with its untouched nature, crystal-clear sea, rich history, and authentic Mediterranean atmosphere, the island of Brač is the place for you. Located in the Adriatic Sea, in the heart of Dalmatia, Brač is the third largest Croatian island and a true paradise for lovers of nature, culture, and adventure.

Known for the world-famous Zlatni Rat beach, which changes shape under the influence of wind and currents, Brač offers incredible diversity – from spectacular viewpoints like Vidova Gora, to stone-masonry workshops that have shaped global landmarks, to idyllic olive groves and vineyards that exude the Mediterranean way of life.

With over 2,600 hours of sunshine annually, a mild climate that invites relaxation, and a wealth of flavors you’ll remember for years – from succulent lamb and fresh seafood to top-quality wines and homemade olive oil – Brač is a delight. Whether you’re an adventurer eager to explore underwater caves, a family searching for the perfect beach, or a history enthusiast keen to discover ancient monasteries, Brač has everything your heart desires.

What This Guide Offers

This detailed guide to the island of Brač is your key to a perfect vacation. Here’s what you’ll find below:

• Towns on Brač – Discover charming places like Supetar, Bol, Pučišća, Milna, Postira, and Sumartin – each with its own story, architecture, attractions, and local spirit.
• Gastronomic Recommendations – Where to eat and what to try? From traditional vitalac and Brač lamb to fresh fish delicacies, local cheese, and the sweet hrapoćuša cake, paired with a glass of top-notch Plavac Mali or Pošip.
• Cultural Attractions – What to visit? Explore historical gems like the Blaca Hermitage, Dragon’s Cave, the stone-masonry school in Pučišća, and archaeological sites that tell the story of the island’s thousand-year past.
• Most Beautiful Beaches – A detailed overview of the most famous and hidden beaches – from the world-renowned Zlatni Rat to secluded coves like Lučice and Murvica, ideal for peace and privacy.
• 活动 – From adrenaline-pumping windsurfing at Zlatni Rat, hiking on Vidova Gora, cycling through olive groves, diving in underwater caves, to relaxed wine and olive oil tastings at local wineries.
• Transportation Information – Everything you need to know about getting to Brač – how to arrive from Split, Makarska, or other cities, whether by ferry, catamaran, private boat, or even a plane to the island’s airport.

Brač isn’t just an island – it’s an experience that blends relaxation, adventure, and culture into one unforgettable destination. Keep reading to find out why Brač should be at the top of your list for your next trip!

About the Island of Brač

Brač is an island that takes your breath away with its diversity and beauty. Located in central Dalmatia, it spans 395 square kilometers, making it the third largest island in Croatia. Its 175-kilometer coastline is dotted with coves, beaches, and harbors, while the island’s interior boasts a rugged landscape, olive groves, vineyards, and pine forests.

Brač is known as the “island of stone” due to its white limestone, which has been used for centuries to build landmarks worldwide – from Diocletian’s Palace in Split to the White House in Washington. The island’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with traces of Illyrian settlements, Roman villas, and early Christian basilicas, while later influences from Croats and Venetians have left an indelible mark on its culture and architecture.

Brač is the birthplace of notable figures like sculptor Ivan Rendić, whose works adorn cemeteries and squares across Croatia, and poet Tin Ujević, who found inspiration here. Today, Brač is celebrated for its natural beauty – from Zlatni Rat, considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, to Vidova Gora, the highest peak of all Adriatic islands, offering views of Hvar, Vis, and the endless blue of the Adriatic. With a mild Mediterranean climate, average summer temperatures of 25°C, and over 2,600 hours of sunshine annually, Brač is a place where the scent of olives, lavender, and the sea lingers in the air, and sunsets leave you speechless.

This island offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, historical heritage, and modern pleasures, making it an irresistible destination for anyone who sets foot on its shores.

城市

Brač has six main administrative centers – Supetar, Bol, Pučišća, Milna, Postira, and Sumartin. Each town has its own character, from bustling tourist hubs to quiet fishing villages. Below is a detailed overview of what to visit, do, and where to eat in each.

苏佩塔尔

苏佩塔尔 is the main hub and largest port on Brač, located on the northern coast, where most visitors first arrive. With a population of about 3,500, Supetar is a lively town that blends practicality with Mediterranean charm. Its stone streets, Baroque churches, and seaside promenades make it an ideal starting point for your island journey. Supetar is known for its rich history – remnants of Roman villas and mosaics have been found here, and medieval churches testify to the area’s long tradition.

The nightlife in Supetar isn’t overly loud but has a special charm. Local bars like “Aquarius” offer live music and cocktails, while “Varadero” attracts visitors with its relaxed seaside vibe. During the summer, Supetar comes alive with events like “Supetar Summer Nights,” where you can enjoy traditional music, dance, and local specialties.

What to Do in Supetar?

• Supetar Summer Nights
  This festival, held in July and August, features a range of cultural events – from classical music concerts in the Church of the Annunciation of Mary to performances by local klapa groups on the square. The gastronomic part includes stalls with spit-roasted lamb, fresh fish, and local wine, offering a perfect chance to experience Brač’s flavors.
• 葡萄酒节
  Held in September, this event celebrates the island’s winemaking tradition. Local winemakers showcase their wines – from rich Plavac Mali to crisp Pošip – paired with local cheese, prosciutto, and olives. It’s an ideal event for wine lovers looking to discover indigenous varieties in a relaxed atmosphere with music and dance.

Where to Eat in Supetar?

• Restoran Palute
  Located in the heart of Supetar, this restaurant is known for fresh fish dishes like grilled sea bass and seafood risotto. Paired with local olive oil and a glass of Plavac, dinner here is a true experience. The terrace overlooking the harbor adds to the charm.
• Konoba Lukin
  An authentic Dalmatian tavern offering lamb cooked under a peka bell, grilled octopus, and homemade pasta with seafood. The rustic ambiance with stone walls and wooden tables creates a warm atmosphere, and the sea view makes every meal special.
• Vinotoka
  Perfect for wine lovers and light bites. Here, you can taste local wines alongside platters of prosciutto, cheese, olives, and wood-fired homemade bread. Housed in an old stone building, this wine bar exudes history.
• Punta
  A beachside restaurant offering a wide selection – from fresh fish platters and wood-fired pizzas to light salads and cocktails. Sunset from the terrace makes it ideal for romantic dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Supetar is perfect for those who want to stay close to all the island’s amenities while enjoying peace and culture.

For more information about Supetar check our Supetar complete guide 这里。

波尔

Located on the southern coast, Bol is the most famous town on Brač and a tourist hub that attracts visitors with its iconic Zlatni Rat beach, vibrant nightlife, and diverse activities. With about 1,600 residents, Bol is a place where nature and modern life blend seamlessly. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and pine forests, the town is known for its seaside promenade leading to Zlatni Rat and historical landmarks like the Dominican Monastery.

Above Bol rises Vidova Gora, the highest peak in the Adriatic islands, offering panoramic views of Hvar, Vis, and the endless Adriatic blue. Bol is also a hub for water sports – windsurfing and kitesurfing are world-renowned here thanks to ideal winds.

Bol’s nightlife is lively – from beach bars like “Auro” to clubs like “585 Club,” where you can dance until dawn to music by famous DJs. During the summer, Bol comes alive with cultural events like “Bol Summer,” featuring concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.

What to Visit in Bol?

1. Dominican Monastery
   Founded in the 15th century, this seaside monastery houses a collection of artworks, including paintings by old masters and archaeological finds from Roman times. The monastery garden, overlooking Zlatni Rat, is perfect for relaxation.
2. Church of Our Lady of Carmel
   A Baroque church in the center of Bol, known for its elegant bell tower and richly decorated interior with altars made of Brač stone.
3. Vidova Gora
   The highest peak in the Adriatic at 778 m, accessible by car or hiking. The view from the top stretches for dozens of kilometers, and the trail winds through fragrant pine forests and rocky landscapes.
4. Rasohe Quarry / Splitska Roman Quarries
   An ancient Roman quarry where stone was extracted for Diocletian’s Palace. Today, it’s a historical monument offering insight into Brač’s stone-masonry tradition.
5. House Within a House (Paloc)
   An unusual architectural curiosity—a small stone house built inside a larger one—symbolizing the island’s creativity and resourceful use of space.

What to Do in Bol?

1. Windsurfing at Zlatni Rat
   Zlatni Rat is a paradise for windsurfers, with winds attracting competitors from around the world. Windsurfing schools like “Big Blue Sport” offer courses for beginners and equipment rentals for experienced surfers.
2. Bol Summer
   A cultural event running from June to September, with over 50 events – from classical music concerts in the Dominican Monastery to performances by klapa groups and modern bands on the waterfront. Gastronomic evenings feature lamb, fish, and local wine.

Where to Eat in Bol?

1. Konoba Toni
   Located in Bol’s old town, this tavern serves authentic Dalmatian dishes like octopus cooked under a peka bell, pašticada with gnocchi, and fresh grilled fish. Paired with local wine and a rustic ambiance right by the sea, it’s perfect for dinner after a day at the beach.
2. Restoran Mali Raj
   An elegant restaurant blending tradition and modern cuisine. Try octopus with polenta, tuna carpaccio, or lamb with local herbs, paired with wine from the Stina winery. The terrace overlooking Zlatni Rat adds to the experience.
3. Taverna Riva
   On the waterfront, Taverna Riva offers fresh fish platters, lobster with pasta, and wood-fired pizzas. Ideal for families or groups of friends looking to enjoy a casual evening by the marina.
4. Pumparela
   A rustic tavern known for vitalac and spit-roasted lamb. Housed in a charming stone building with a vine-covered terrace, Pumparela is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for experiencing the true spirit of Brač.

Bol is perfect for those seeking a mix of active vacation, natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife.

For more information about Bol check our Bol complete guide here.

Pučišća

Pučišća, nestled in a deep bay on the northeastern coast of Brač, is known as the “town of stonemasons.” With about 1,500 residents, this picturesque town exudes tranquility and authenticity, its architecture of white Brač stone resembling a fairytale setting. Pučišća is home to the only stonemasonry school in Europe, where the tradition of crafting the stone used in global landmarks is still nurtured. The harbor, surrounded by stone houses and olive groves, offers an idyllic scene, while quiet streets invite leisurely strolls.

The nightlife in Pučišća is subdued but pleasant – local bars like “Bistro Puteus” serve homemade drinks in a relaxed atmosphere, and summer events like the “Fishermen’s Festival” bring liveliness to the streets.

What to Do in Pučišća?

• Visit the Stonemasonry School
  This unique school allows you to observe students handcrafting Brač stone. Visitors can learn about the history of this craft, explore an exhibition on stonemasonry, and purchase souvenirs like stone figurines or decorations. Housed in an old building overlooking the harbor, the visit includes a short guided tour.
• Fishermen’s Festival
  A traditional event in August, when Pučišća’s streets transform into a fishing fair. Sample freshly caught fish – from grilled sardines to brudet (fish stew) – watch fishing competitions, and enjoy performances by local musicians. It’s a chance to experience the spirit of the fishing tradition and savor Dalmatian flavors.

Where to Eat in Pučišća?

• Konoba Babilon – Located by the harbor, this tavern offers fresh fish – squid, shrimp, and sea bream – prepared traditionally, paired with local olive oil and wine. The ambiance is simple yet warm, with a sea view that enhances the experience.
• Restoran Puteus – An elegant restaurant with a Mediterranean menu, featuring fish platters, seafood pasta, and grilled lamb. Its terrace overlooking the bay is perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings.
• Konoba Rade – Tucked away in narrow streets, this tavern is known for vitalac and lamb cooked under a peka bell. With local wine and desserts like hrapoćuša cake, it’s a place to taste authentic Brač flavors in a rustic setting.
• Stara Uljara – Housed in an old olive mill, this tavern serves dishes like octopus salad and fish brudet, paired with homemade olive oil available as a souvenir. Stone walls and wooden tables create an atmosphere of bygone times.

Pučišća is ideal for those seeking peace, culture, and insight into Brač’s stonemasonry tradition.

米尔娜

Milna, located on the western coast of Brač, is a haven for sailors thanks to its deep, sheltered bay. With about 1,000 residents, Milna is a charming fishing village that retains its authenticity despite its modern marina. Stone houses, narrow streets, and the scent of olives make it an idyllic spot for relaxation, while its proximity to Osibova Bay and Pasika Beach attracts nature lovers. Milna has a rich history – once a key port for the Venetian fleet, it’s now a favorite among sailors worldwide.

The nightlife in Milna is quiet but pleasant – bars like “Palme” offer cocktails by the sea, and summer evenings often feature performances by local musicians on the waterfront.

What to Visit in Milna?

• Church of Our Lady of the Annunciation – An 18th-century Baroque church with an impressive bell tower and richly decorated interior of Brač stone. Located in the town center, it offers a peaceful spot for sightseeing.
• Marina Milna – A modern marina with services for yachtsmen, restaurants, and bars. It’s ideal for a stroll along the coast and admiring luxurious vessels.
• Pasika Beach – A small pebble beach near Milna, surrounded by pines, perfect for quiet swimming and relaxation. Accessible on foot or by boat.

What to Do in Milna?

• Sailing and Boat Trips – Milna is an ideal base for excursions to nearby bays like Bobovišća and Lučice. Many agencies offer boat rentals or organized tours.
• 渔民之夜 – A traditional July event featuring fish specialties, music, and dancing on the waterfront.

Where to Eat in Milna?

• Konoba Gustirna – Set in an old stone courtyard, this tavern serves homemade seafood pasta, fresh fish, and lamb cooked under a peka bell. Paired with local wine and desserts like fritule, it’s a true gastronomic delight.
• Restoran Bago – On the waterfront, Bago offers fish platters, lobster with pasta, and light salads, with top-notch service and a view of the marina.
• Konoba Dupini – A rustic tavern with vitalac, lamb, and fish brudet. Its vine-covered terrace makes it ideal for a relaxed dinner.
• Palma – A laid-back seaside restaurant with pizzas, fish dishes, and cocktails. Perfect for a casual lunch after swimming or an evening out.
• Javi ako treba još nešto!

Milna is perfect for sailors, peace-seekers, and those wanting to experience the fishing spirit of Brač.

Postira

Postira, on Brač’s northern coast, once a fishing village, is now a tranquil tourist spot with about 1,500 residents. Known for the beautiful sandy Lovrečina Beach and surrounding olive groves, Postira offers an authentic island experience away from the crowds. Its stone streets and fishing harbor retain the charm of bygone times, while the nearby eco-ethno village of Dol provides insight into rural Brač life.

The nightlife is quiet but charming – local cafés like “Lanterna” serve homemade drinks with a sea view, and summer events bring music and merriment.

What to Do in Postira?

• Eco-Ethno Village Dol – A visit to this inland village offers tastings of local honey, olive oil, and wine, along with insight into Brač’s rural traditions. Try dishes like fažol na brujet (bean stew) and hrapoćuša cake.
• Summer Events – From June to August, Postira hosts klapa concerts, fishermen’s nights, and children’s workshops in the town square.

Where to Eat in Postira?

• Konoba Galija – A traditional tavern with fish specialties like grilled sardines and octopus cooked under a 佩卡 bell, plus lamb and local wine. The view of the harbor makes every meal special.
• Restoran Pastura – Located by the sea, it offers fresh fish, seafood pasta, and light desserts like lavender panna cotta.
• Konoba Lanterna – A rustic tavern with lamb, vitalac, and fish brudet, paired with local olive oil and wine. Its waterfront terrace is ideal for evening relaxation.

Postira is perfect for families and those seeking peace with an authentic atmosphere.

Sumartin

Sumartin, on Brač’s eastern coast, is the island’s youngest settlement with about 400 residents. Known for its ferry connection to Makarska, Sumartin is a peaceful fishing village surrounded by pristine nature and beaches like Žukovik and Rasotica. Its stone houses and St. Martin’s Monastery make it an idyllic retreat for those escaping the crowds.

The nightlife is minimal, but local cafés like “Mirona” offer homemade drinks and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.

What to Visit in Sumartin?

• St. Martin’s Monastery – An 18th-century monastery with a museum housing old books and religious artifacts. Perched on a hill above the town, it offers peace and a sea view.
• Žukovik Beach – A hidden pebble cove with crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming and relaxation. Accessible on foot or by boat.
• St. Roch’s Church – A small church in the town center, known for its simple architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

What to Do in Sumartin?

• Hiking to Rasotica Bay – A short trail leads to this beautiful cove, where you can enjoy silence and clear waters.
• Fishermen’s Evening – A summer event with fish specialties and music on the waterfront.

Where to Eat in Sumartin?

• Konoba Galija – A traditional tavern with fish specialties like grilled sardines and octopus cooked under a peka bell, plus lamb and local wine. The view of the harbor makes every meal special.
• Restoran Pastura – Located by the sea, it offers fresh fish, seafood pasta, and light desserts like lavender panna cotta.
• Konoba Lanterna – A rustic tavern with lamb, vitalac, and fish brudet, paired with local olive oil and wine. Its waterfront terrace is ideal for evening relaxation.

Sumartin is ideal for those seeking peace, nature, and proximity to Makarska.

Highlighted Attractions to Visit and Experience on Brač

Brač is full of unique experiences that will leave you in awe. Here are a few standout attractions:

• Blaca Hermitage
  Nestled among cliffs on the island’s southern side, this 16th-century monastery was founded by priests fleeing the Ottomans. Reached via a 40-minute hiking trail from Murvica or by boat with a short climb, it houses old books, astronomical instruments, and globes. The view of the sea and Hvar is spectacular, blending history and nature’s tranquility.
• Dragon’s Cave
  Located above Murvica, this cave is an archaeological gem with reliefs of dragons, mystical symbols, and religious motifs carved into the rock, believed to have been used by hermits in the 15th century. The challenging hour-long hike is worth it for the mysterious atmosphere and coastal views.
• Vidova Gora
  The highest peak in the Adriatic islands (778 m), Vidova Gora is a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers. Trails from Bol (about 2 hours) or a drivable road lead to the summit, offering views of Zlatni Rat, Hvar, Vis, and Korčula. The sunset here is unforgettable.

Beaches on Brač

Brač is renowned for its diverse beaches – from iconic pebble shores to sandy coves and hidden gems accessible only by boat. Here’s a detailed overview of the most beautiful beaches:

Zlatni Rat (Bol)

One of the Adriatic’s most famous beaches, Zlatni Rat is a 500-meter pebble promontory that shifts shape with wind and currents, a natural wonder. Ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sunbathing, it offers beach bars, loungers, and restaurants nearby. Pine forests provide natural shade, and the water is crystal clear.

Lovrečina (Postira)

A rare sandy beach on Brač, Lovrečina lies in a bay on the northeastern coast. Surrounded by olive groves and pines, it’s perfect for families due to shallow waters and soft sand. Nearby ruins of a 6th-century early Christian basilica add a historical dimension. A bar and restaurant provide refreshments.

Lučice (Milna)

A hidden cove near Milna, Lučice is a pebble beach with turquoise waters and lush vegetation. Accessible on foot or by boat, it’s ideal for those seeking privacy. Bring your own gear, as facilities are minimal, but the peace and beauty make up for it.

Murvica (Bol)

A small pebble beach a few kilometers from Bol, Murvica is surrounded by cliffs and vineyards. Perfect for snorkeling and relaxation, it offers views of Hvar and untouched nature. A walking trail leads to it, and there are no crowds or commercial facilities.

Bijela Kuća (Bol)

Named after a nearby abandoned Dominican monastery, this beach combines pebbles and rocks. Pines provide shade, and the water is ideal for swimming. Restaurants are nearby, but the beach retains a peaceful vibe.

Vela Luka (Supetar)

A pebble beach near Supetar, known for turquoise waters and natural pine shade. Ideal for families and diving, it has a restaurant and bar nearby. Easily accessible from town, it’s popular with locals and tourists.

Javi ako želiš još nešto!

Activities on Brač

Brač offers a wealth of activities for all tastes – from adrenaline-pumping sports to relaxed cultural experiences. Here’s a detailed overview:

Hiking

Vidova Gora (778 m) is the top destination for hikers. The trail from Bol takes about 2 hours, winding through pine forests and rocky landscapes to a panoramic summit. An easier option is the trail from Murvica to Blaca Hermitage, where you can explore the monastery and enjoy solitude.

骑自行车

Brač has over 100 km of marked cycling trails. The Bol–Vidova Gora route challenges experienced cyclists, while Supetar–Milna is an easy, scenic ride through olive groves and vineyards. Bikes can be rented in Bol, Supetar, and Milna.

潜水

Brač’s underwater world is rich with caves, reefs, and wrecks. Popular sites include Rt Ptičji Rat (caves at 25 m depth) and Zlatni Rat (reefs teeming with fish). Diving centers in Bol and Supetar offer courses and tours.

Windsurfing

Zlatni Rat is world-famous for winds ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Schools like “Big Blue Sport” provide equipment and lessons, attracting both professionals and beginners.

Wine Tasting

Wineries like Stina (Bol) and Senjković (Dračevica) offer tastings of Plavac Mali, Pošip, and other varieties, paired with prosciutto, cheese, and olives. Visits include vineyard tours and stories of the island’s winemaking tradition.

Getting to Brač

Ferry Split–Supetar

Operated by Jadrolinija, this 50-minute car ferry runs frequently during the summer season. It’s ideal for travelers bringing a car, as it allows easy onward travel around the island of Brač by bus or taxi from Supetar. Check schedules and book tickets directly with Jadrolinija.

Catamaran Split–Bol/Milna

Operated by Krilo and Jadrolinija, this passenger-only catamaran takes about 30 minutes to Bol. It’s a faster option than the ferry and perfect for those traveling without vehicles, especially for visiting Bol and Zlatni Rat beach. Schedules and bookings are available on the Krilo website.

Flights to Brač Airport

Brač Airport offers seasonal flights from cities like Zagreb, Vienna, and others, mainly during the summer months. This is a convenient option for international travelers looking for direct access to Brač, though flights are limited to the tourist season. Check Brač Airport for flight details and schedules.

Ferry Makarska–Sumartin

Jadrolinija operates a 60-minute car ferry from Makarska to Sumartin several times daily. This route is ideal for travelers coming from southern Dalmatia, providing direct access to Brač. From Sumartin, you can continue your journey by bus or taxi.

Taxi Boat – Private Water Taxi from Split Airport to Brač

For a fast and comfortable transfer, a private taxi boat Split to Brač is the best choice. A direct water taxi from Split Airport to Brač takes just about 30 minutes and offers a premium, stress-free alternative to public transport or ferry lines. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid waiting times and enjoy the convenience of private transfer. Booking is easy and recommended in advance.

The Fastest Way from Split to Brač

The most convenient and quickest way to get from 斯普利特到布拉奇岛 is by private 的士船 or 水上的士. Forget about ferry schedules, crowded buses, or complicated transfers – private speedboats can take you as close as possible to your accommodation on Brač. You’ll enjoy a refreshing sea ride and save hours compared to traditional ferry travel and waiting times.

Option	渡船	双体船	Private Boat Taxi (Water Taxi)
平均旅行时间	1小时	30分钟	Less than 30 minutes
Comfort (1–10)	6	5	8
Price for Individuals (1–10)	8	8	2
Price for Groups (1–10)	5	4	8
Overall Rating (1–10)	4.5	5	7.2

Experience Brač Through Video

Watch this video to fully experience Brač’s beauty: