Brac Island, Croatia Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Brac Island is a picturesque Croatian destination located in the Adriatic Sea. With its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and charming villages, it is a popular choice for travelers seeking a peaceful and scenic holiday. The island is also home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach, known for its unique shape and ideal for water sports enthusiasts. Brac Island boasts a rich history, evident in its ancient towns and impressive architecture, as well as a thriving culinary scene featuring delicious local dishes. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure or cultural experiences, Brac Island has something for everyone.

Why Brac Island, Croatia?

  • Brac Island is the largest island in the Adriatic Sea.
  • The island has been inhabited since the 3rd century BC.
  • The highest peak of the island is Vidova Gora, which is 778 meters above sea level.
  • Brac Island is home to the famous white pebble beach, Zlatni Rat.
  • The island is known for its production of olive oil, wine, and honey.

Brac Island, Croatia Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
39° F
° F
February
43° F
° F
March
48° F
° F
April
55° F
° F
May
64° F
° F
June
72° F
° F
July
77° F
° F
August
77° F
° F
September
70° F
° F
October
61° F
° F
November
52° F
° F
December
43° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
4.1 inches
February
3.9 inches
March
3.7 inches
April
3.5 inches
May
3.1 inches
June
3.2 inches
July
2.2 inches
August
2.5 inches
September
3.1 inches
October
4.3 inches
November
5.9 inches
December
5.8 inches

History

Brac Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia, known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and charming villages. However, this picturesque island has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years.

The island was first inhabited by the Illyrians, an ancient Indo-European tribe, around 3,500 years ago. They were skilled farmers and fishermen, and their influence can still be seen in the island’s agriculture and fishing industries today.

In the 4th century BC, the Greeks arrived on the island and founded the colony of Tragurion (modern-day Trogir). They brought with them their advanced culture and architecture, which can still be seen in the ruins of ancient buildings scattered across the island.

Over the centuries, Brac Island was ruled by various empires, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians. Under the Roman Empire, the island prospered and became an important trading center due to its strategic location in the Adriatic Sea.

In the 7th century AD, Slavic tribes began to settle on the island, bringing with them their own culture and traditions. This marked the beginning of the Croatian influence on the island, which is evident in the local dialect and customs.

During the Middle Ages, Brac Island was constantly under threat from pirates and other invaders. To protect themselves, the locals built fortified settlements and towers, some of which still stand today as a testament to the island’s turbulent past.

In the 15th century, the island came under the rule of the Venetian Republic, which brought a period of peace and prosperity. The Venetians left their mark on the island’s architecture, with many churches and palaces built during this time.

In the 19th century, Brac Island became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and its economy shifted from agriculture to shipbuilding and fishing. The island’s famous white stone was also discovered during this time and became a valuable export.

In the 20th century, Brac Island went through significant changes as it became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, followed by the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Today, the island is part of the Republic of Croatia and has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world to its beautiful beaches and historic towns.

Transportation on Brac Island, Croatia

Getting to Brac Island, Croatia and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of the stay.
  • Many nationalities can enter Croatia visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Proof of onward or return travel may be required.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Croatia; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right.
  • Roads: Generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding in some rural and coastal areas.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious on narrow rural roads and in tourist-heavy areas. Parking can be limited in popular spots like Bol and Supetar during peak seasons. A car ferry from Split connects to Supetar for vehicle access to the island.

Local Transportation

Brac Island, Croatia, offers diverse transportation options for visitors. Cars and scooters provide flexibility for exploring attractions, while public buses connect major towns affordably. Taxis and private transfers offer convenience, and bikes or walking allow for a scenic, immersive experience.

Know Before You Go...® - Brac Island, Croatia Travel Tips

Before making their way to Brac Island, Croatia , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Brac Island, Croatia even more relaxing.

Capital: Supetar
Population: 24,000 (estimated)
Size: 153 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in Brac Island is Croatian. The secondary language spoken in Brac Island is English, due to the high number of tourists. Other languages such as German, Italian, and French may also be spoken.
Currency:
  • The official currency of Croatia is the Croatian kuna (HRK).
  • While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, cash is still the preferred method of payment on Brac Island. Smaller businesses, such as local shops and restaurants, may not accept cards.
  • There are numerous ATMs located throughout the island, making it easy to withdraw cash in the local currency. However, it is important to note that some ATMs may charge a fee for international transactions, so it is best to check with your bank beforehand.
  • The exchange rate for the kuna can fluctuate, so it is important to keep an eye on the current rate before exchanging your currency.
  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, but it is always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand.
  • While traveler's checks used to be a popular form of currency, they are not widely accepted on Brac Island.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not obligatory in Brac Island, but it is appreciated for good service. A small tip of 10% is generally expected in restaurants and cafes. For exceptional service, you can leave a larger tip of 15-20%.
  • Tipping is also common in hotels, where you can leave a small amount for the housekeeping staff.
  • Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is a common practice.
  • Croatia has a value-added tax (VAT) of 25% on most goods and services. This tax is included in the price of items and services, so there is no need to add it separately.
  • Restaurants and shops may display their prices without VAT, so make sure to check before making a purchase.
  • Some restaurants and hotels in Brac Island may include a service charge of 10-15% in the bill. This means that tipping is not necessary, but if you are satisfied with the service, you can leave an additional tip as a gesture of appreciation.
Dress Code: The dress code in Brac Island in Croatia is casual and relaxed with a focus on comfortable and beach-appropriate attire.
Topography: Brac Island in Croatia has a rugged and mountainous terrain with deep valleys, rocky cliffs, and a central peak that reaches 780 meters.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +385 * Area Code for Bra?: (0)21 * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the island. * Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, restaurants, and public spaces.

Brac Island, Croatia Weddings and Honeymoons

In Brac Island, Croatia getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Application: Submit a marriage application to the local Mati?ni Ured (Registry Office) on Bra? Island or in the nearest municipality. Applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the wedding date.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards
  • Birth certificates (translated into Croatian and certified with an Apostille)
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage or single status certificate (issued by your home country and translated into Croatian)
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of residence (if applicable)
  • Application form provided by the Registry Office

Translation and Certification: All foreign documents must be translated into Croatian by a court-appointed translator and authenticated with an Apostille.

Ceremony: Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Croatian by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Croatian. Ceremonies typically take place at the Registry Office or an approved venue.

Costs: Civil marriage fees are typically around €50 to €100. Additional fees apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements for off-site or scenic venues.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Bra? Island offers stunning options for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including beaches, luxury villas, and historic locations like monasteries or seaside gardens. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.