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

Overview

Brac Island is the largest of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands and offers quaint seaside towns with exquisite Mediterranean gastronomy. Sublime luxury beachfront properties offers stunning views overlooking the sea. With its coastline of hidden coves, beautiful deserted beaches and immaculate bays, Brac Island is an exceptional destination adored by the most discerning of travellers. 

The island has long been known for its milky white stone, a mix of marble and limestone, which formed the building blocks of some of the world’s most famous buildings including the White House, parliament buildings in Budapest and Vienna and Croatia’s very own Diocletian’s Palace in Split. 

Home to the world famous Zlatni Rat Beach, also known as the Golden Horn, this dreamlike shapeshifting beach is the most stunning landmark of the island. Other beautiful beaches include Lovrecina in Postira, a shielded sandy beach with shallow and warm waters surrounded by a green forest, ideal if travelling with small children.

Before you retreat to the privacy of your luxurious villa, take a stroll around the picture-postcard harbours and stop off to sample delicious seafood dishes, famous island cheeses and speciality prosciutto at various water’s edge restaurants and eateries.

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

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
  • Children under 12 or less than 150 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
  • Adhere to speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, 110 km/h on expressways, and 130 km/h on motorways (some sections may have lower limits).
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Overtake on the left, and keep to the right unless overtaking on multi-lane roads.
  • Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
  • Use headlights at all times, even during the day.
  • In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

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: 220/240
Time: zone:+1 (GMT/UTC )
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: Croatia's telephone country code is +385 and its area code is 01.

Brac Island, Croatia Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Brac Island, Croatia villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons! In Croatia, the process of getting married is relatively simple, with a few required documents. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local registry office (Matica gradana). Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties, with a certified translation into Croatian if not in the language.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in Croatia (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs around 100 to 150 HRK (approximately €13 to €20). For weddings outside of the registry office (at a venue or other location), additional fees for the officiant, ranging from 500 to 1,500 HRK (approximately €65 to €200), will apply. It’s recommended to apply for the license at least 30 days before the intended wedding date.

See our favorite Croatia villas for weddings.