Things To Do
in Šolta

Šolta is a small Dalmatian island just off Split, famed for olive groves and crystal-clear Adriatic waters. Its villages—Maslinica, Donje Selo, Grohote, Milna and Sućuraj—offer charming stone streets and harbor life. The island blends traditional Dalmatian architecture with a laid-back, walkable landscape ideal for day trips or a relaxed seaside stay.

Outside of the peak crowds, visitors can enjoy coves, beaches, hiking paths, and flavorful seafood and olive oil highlights.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center of Grohote
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of Grohote, taking in the stunning stone architecture and the historic charm of this small town. Stop by the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up some fresh produce or handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Church of St. Stephen, an architectural gem that showcases the town's rich history. Take a guided tour to learn about the local legends and the significance of the landmarks. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh fish dishes paired with local wine while overlooking the picturesque harbor.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a waterfront bar to sip on a traditional rakija while watching the boats bob in the harbor. The evening ambiance is filled with the sounds of laughter and gentle waves, making it the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the serene beauty of the Adriatic Sea.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports at Nečujam
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing swim at Nečujam Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views. After your swim, lounge on the beach with a good book or simply soak up the sun, enjoying the gentle breeze. For a bit of adventure, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline from the water.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, grab lunch at one of the beachside eateries, where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes and local specialties. Afterward, join a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life beneath the waves. This underwater adventure will allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of the Adriatic Sea up close.

evening
:

As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the beach, collecting seashells and enjoying the warm sunset hues. Head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner, and then indulge in a beachfront dining experience. Relish a delicious meal while listening to live music and enjoying the tranquil night sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🥗Three-course mid-range meal for two$40-70
🏨Mid-range hotel room (per night)$90-150
🚗Car rental (per day)$40-70
Coffee$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastline and tranquil villages
  • Excellent seafood and olive oil culture
  • Easy day trips from Split
  • Low-key, safe destination
  • Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions
  • Some facilities may be seasonal or small-town in scale
  • Getting around requires a car or good transport planning
  • Fewer direct international flight options to the island
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Govorite engleski?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gdje je... ?" - Where is... ?
  • "Možete li mi pomoći?" - Can you help me?
  • "Živjeli!" - Cheers!

Places to Visit in Šolta

Visit one of these nice places.

Maslinica Harbour at Sunset

Historic fortress overlooking the marina with red-tile roofs and golden light at dusk.

Milna Harbour from the Coast Road

Classic Dalmatian harbor with fishing boats, white stone houses, and blue water.

Donje Selo Old Pier

Old pier and church backdrop set against the Adriatic horizon.

Sućuraj Lighthouse Vista

Coastal lighthouse with panoramic views across the eastern shore.

Culinary Guide

Food in Šolta

Šolta's cuisine reflects the Dalmatian coast, with olive oil, fresh seafood, herbs, and simple seasonal dishes prepared to highlight the ingredients.

Šolta Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gregada

A classic Dalmatian fish stew with potatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs.

Must-Try!

Pršut i sir

Dry-cured ham with local cheese, served with bread and olive oil.

Lignje na žaru

Grilled squid with olive oil, lemon, and herbs.

Seafood platter

A selection of fresh Adriatic seafood, typically grilled or lightly prepared.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Grohote Market

Local farmers market offering seasonal vegetables, cheeses, olive oil, and herbs.

Donje Selo Fish Market

Fresh catch market where locals buy daily fish and shellfish.

Street Food

Grilled sardines, octopus salad, and fritule sold by small stalls near harbors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Šolta has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer highs typically reach 28-32 C (82-90 F), while winter daytime temperatures hover around 6-12 C (43-54 F). The island enjoys sea breezes that moderate heat; spring and autumn offer pleasant, shoulder-season conditions for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite Dobar dan or hello; a handshake is common; maintain eye contact.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in quiet villages; show respect in family homes and when invited to dinner.

Hospitality

Croats are warm hosts; if offered food or drink, accepting a small portion is customary.

Safety Guide

Safety

Šolta is generally safe for travelers with low crime; standard precautions apply: keep valuables secure in crowded areas, use reputable tour operators for boat trips, and be careful on winding coastal roads, especially at night. Water safety: swim between designated areas; sun protection is essential in summer.

Tipping in Šolta

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common if not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is still widely used in small taverns, but credit/debit cards are accepted at most restaurants, hotels, and larger shops; ATMs are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with abundant sunshine and calm seas; best for swimming, boat trips, and long evenings on the coast.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and fewer crowds; good for hiking and wine-tasting as the island harvests begin.

Winter

Cooler, mild winters with occasional rainfall; many small places close for a short period, but some restaurants stay open.

Spring

Blooming olive groves and sea air; ideal for cycling, hiking, and early-season seafood.

Nightlife Guide

Šolta at Night

On Šolta, nightlife is low-key and seasonal, centered around harbor bars and small live music venues in Maslinica, Sućuraj, and Milna during the summer months; most evenings are relaxed strolls along the water rather than clubbing.

Hiking in Šolta

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal walking paths between Maslinica and Milna

Coastal paths with sea views and bays suitable for easy hikes.

Grohote hinterland trails

Hilly inland trails through olive groves and stone terraces.

Lighthouse viewpoint routes

Moderate hikes to seafront viewpoints near Sućuraj.

Airports

How to reach Šolta by plane.

Split Airport (SPU)

Main international and domestic gateway for Šolta; frequent ferry connections to Split and nearby islands.

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)

A longer transfer option for travelers coming from or through southern Dalmatia.

Zadar Airport (ZAD)

Another long-haul alternative for northern routes; less common for Šolta access.

Getting Around

Walkability

Šolta is best explored by car or scooter, but several towns have compact centers with walkable streets; coastal paths and harbour promenades are pedestrian-friendly. Internal roads can be narrow and winding, making walking practical mainly within towns or along short coastal routes rather than long hikes across heavy traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Croats living on the island with strong fishing, farming and seafaring traditions.

Seasonal visitors

Tourists from Croatia and Europe visiting for beaches, gastronomy, and nature.

Yacht and boating enthusiasts

Visitors arriving by boat to explore the island's coves and marinas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

Popular calm seas and marinas attract sailors and yacht charters.

Kayaking

Coastal paddling along rugged shorelines and coves.

Swimming & Snorkeling

Clear Adriatic waters ideal for sea life observation.

Cycling

Low-traffic roads suitable for scenic cycling routes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic on Šolta is generally light outside peak season; ferries connect the island to Split and neighboring islands, with road travel slower due to winding coastal lanes. In the towns, buses and taxis are available, and renting a car or scooter is common for exploring. Parking can be limited in busy harbors during summer.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Šolta.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy grilled vegetables, fresh salads, cheeses, and pasta dishes with olive oil; many places can accommodate eggs and dairy; specify no seafood if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare on Šolta is primarily basic and managed locally; residents use island clinics or visit Split for advanced care. There are nurse-led stations and small medical centers on the island; for emergencies or specialized care, hospitals in Split offer comprehensive services.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

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