Last Minute Holidays from Manchester to Croatia

Island stays in Croatia are reached by ferry from the mainland, so the crossing shapes how you plan your days and your luggage.

• Korcula: Korcula is a walled island town reached by ferry from the nearby mainland coast, and it is often described as the birthplace of Marco Polo, a claim that draws many visitors to its old streets. Its quieter pace offers a calmer alternative to the busier southern resort city, and the harbour restaurants suit an evening out. Ferry timetables are less frequent than on the busiest routes, so you need to plan the crossing carefully. We recommend it for travellers who want a historic island setting without the crowds of the largest towns, the same brief our Croatia Luxury Holidays deals are built around, so a higher standard of stay is easy to arrange.
• Vis island: Vis is a remote island in the central Adriatic that was closed to foreigners for decades under the Yugoslav army and only opened in 1989. It is reached by ferry from the mainland port, and its quieter coves appeal to travellers who want to avoid the busier islands. Facilities are more limited than on larger islands, so you should expect a simpler stay. For a last minute trip focused on seclusion and a sense of history, it stands out as a distinctive choice.
• Mljet: Mljet is reached by ferry from the coast near the historic walled city and is known for its national park, which includes saltwater lakes and forest. It is quieter than the more developed islands, so it suits walkers and travellers who prefer nature to nightlife. The ferry crossing adds to the journey time, and you should allow for limited accommodation choice in the peak weeks. We find it a rewarding choice for a slower island holiday after a short city stay.
• Lastovo: Lastovo is a quieter island reached by ferry from the Pelješac peninsula, and its unspoiled coves and pebble shores suit families who love calm, clear water. The island keeps a slower rhythm than the busier harbour towns, with a handful of tavernas and little traffic on the roads. Day trips to nearby islands are simple to arrange, although ferry times are limited, so you will need to plan transfers carefully around your arrival. It is a sound choice for a family holiday focused on beaches and peace, the same brief our Croatia Family Holidays deals are built around.
• Kornati islands: The Kornati archipelago is a chain of islands and islets within a national park, and boat trips depart from ports on the central coast to visit them. The islands are largely uninhabited, so the appeal is scenery and swimming rather than resort facilities. Boat trips are weather dependent and can sell out in peak weeks, so we recommend confirming departures early. For guests who enjoy being on the water, it is one of the most memorable day excursions in the region, and it is the sort of outing our Croatia Beach Holidays deals are built around, giving you a comfortable base from which to plan your days on the water.