19 Things To Do In Bol, Brac Island Croatia

Chasing the Donkey may include affiliate links - if you decide to make a purchase through these links, we receive a commission without any additional cost to you. Disclaimer & privacy policy.
Post author SJ

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Of all of the things to do on Brac Island, Croatia, we suggest you get ready to discover Bol. Here are 19 things to do in Bol Croatia.

Things to do on Bol | Travel Croatia like a local

Ready to start your Dalmatian island getaway? Travel to Croatia and head to Bol. It’s a fascinating port town in Brač, Croatia. Brač Island sits on the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia, easily reached by ferry from Split or Makarska in Dalmatia.

This guide of top picks for things to do in Bol will help you plan that annual family holiday, romantic getaway, or that once-in-a-lifetime trip with friends. We’ve selected places with authentic Croatian food, the best local experiences, and tips for the beach and must-see cultural attractions.

1. Zlatni Rat Beach

Best Beaches In Croatia: Zlatni Rat - Travel Reviews - Croatia Travel Blog

Croatian holidays must include at least one beach trip – and I think of all of the things to do in Bol – the prettiest beach in Croatia is Zlatni Rat Beach. This beach is long, golden, and covered in pebbles; this beach protrudes over 500 meters out into the Adriatic Sea in a v-shape, surrounded by deep blue and turquoise water. The shape of the beach changes with the wind and water current, making it one of the unique in Croatia.

TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS

2. Try The Local Wines Of Bol

Things to do in Bol Croatia -Stina Winery - Chasing the Donkey
Things to do in Brac Croatia. Visit the Stina Winery in Bol

A beach day can make you thirsty, so we suggest visiting Stina Winery, situated on the main promenade. The newly formed winery is a blend of new and old traditions serving some of Croatia’s finest wine. The Stina Wine Project began in 2009 when local winery Jako Vino leased a cellar from the Agricultural Cooperative of Bol and began purchasing grapes from the local vineyards.

3. Step Back In Time At Blaca Monastery

Things to do in Bol Blaca- Travel Croatia like a local
Things to do in Bol – Blaca

In the early 16th century, two Glagolitic monks fled the Turks and were offered protection and shelter in a cave in Bol. After receiving the ownership certificate, these founding monks built a church surrounding the cave, and the jaw-dropping Blaca Monastery was born.

Now a museum, the monastery has dozens of eye-opening artifacts, including 8,000 books, many written in Glagolitic script. These were acquired using payment in the form of wine, olive oil, and honey from the monastery’s farm, shipped to Blaca via boats from Italy and Vienna, and carried up the mountainside by workers. Be sure to opt for the guided tour, and you’ll be shown many exhibits, including paintings, armor, a 400-kilo piano, and a telescope.

4. Get Caught Up In The Mystery Of The Dragons Cave

Known as Zmajeva Spilja to the locals, Dragon’s Cave is one of four monasteries in Bol, and there are some theories about its age and original purpose. Our guide told us that many believe the cave dates back to the 4th century, but most claim it to be from the 15th century.

Choose between these disputing theories during your visit to Dragon’s Cave – tours start in town and require a 1.5+-hour hike up fairly steep terrain overlooking views out to the sea. Carefully examine the carvings to your left and see if you can spot where one theory suggests the original carving was changed hundreds of years later. Not for the faint-hearted or unfit but undoubtedly suitable for those interested in ancient Slavic history and conspiracy theories. 

5. Eat Croatian Cuisine

Things to do in Bol Where to eat in Bol
Visit Croatia, and you’ll enjoy many eating opportunities – especially if you are Island Hopping in Croatia. As silly as it may sound, you absolutely have to try Croatian food. But where? There are so many choices of places to eat in Brac. In Bol, you can eat like a local in many areas; these three will indeed serve you the best in Croatia.

Vagabundo Restaurant & Bar | Serving exceptional Croatian dishes with a modern twist. Vagabundo has an extensive wine list, a great children’s menu, and incredible views. We could not agree on the standout dish – try them all. Bonus. Vagabundo offers free WiFi

Konoba Vallum. Traditional Mediterranean food served in a cozy and inviting Konoba. We especially enjoyed the fish soup | Visit: Bracka Cesta 13

Terasa Santo. A family-run restaurant with a spectacular view of the port. Don’t pass up the fish platter for two.

Brands We Use And Trust


6. Go Back To School

The art of lapidary, a centuries-old tradition, is kept alive in Bol at the Sculpting Academy in Pučišća. It is here where students learn how to take enormous slices of Brač stone and transform them into decorative pieces. Amazingly, it’s the only stone masonry school in Europe, and best of all, you can check it out while school is in session and watch how the stone comes alive.

Fun Fact: The Roman Emperor Diocletian had a palace built in Split made from Brač stone. Roman slaves quarried the stone over many years. You can find out where else Brač stone is said to have been used by checking out these facts about Croatia.

7. Spot The Sculptures

Things to do Bol - Travel Croatia like a local
Visit Croatia, and go sculpture scouting.

With the stone masonry school on this part of the Dalmatian Coast, it comes as no surprise that the town is covered with sophisticated works chiseled from Brač stone, including many sculptures that are dotted around the picturesque town. See how many you can spot along your travels.

8. Wander Along The Promenade

Stroll along the Bol Promenade, which takes you along the seashore from the town of Bol all the way to Zlatni Rat Beach. The route is lined with Brač stone and shaded with sizeable overhanging pine trees. I’d suggest wandering along with ice cream in hand on your first day to pick out your favorite beach spots.

9. Get A Brač Stone Souvenir

Clocks, mortar, pestles, candlestick holders, and magnets are just a few Brač stone souvenirs cut, sanded, polished, and waiting to be taken home with you. One of the best places to pick up a souvenir is at one of the several kiosks along the beach promenade.

10. Sip Coffee At The Bol Marina

Things to do in Bol - Chasing the Donkey Croatia
Things to do in Bol Croatia – The Marina

Simple but mandatory. The port is small and has more than a handful of places to drink Croatia’s finest brew. See if you can spot the 15th-century palace with Gothic windows.

11. Head-Up High To Vidova Gora

The highest peak on the Dalmatian Coast is Vidova Gora on the island of Brač. We suggest you ride up to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Bol, Zlatni Rat beach, and out to the brilliant blue sea.

TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS

12. Take A Day Trip From Bol

Hvar, Makarska, Split, and many other places are all accessible as day trips from Brač Island, Croatia. Popular tours like this one include lunch, drinks, and transport, meaning all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the sites. A tour of Croatia would be incomplete without visiting one of the Croatian Islands – so why not make it to more than one?

13. Explore The Other Side Of Brač Island, Croatia

Though not quite as charming as Bol, Supertar makes a fun day trip to the other side of the island, 45 minutes away by road. Head to the marina, take a stroll around the town and catch a glimpse of the 18th-century Church of the Annunciation to see partial remains of 6th-century mosaic work.

 

14. Get Out On The Water

things to do Bol - Zoo Station - Travel Croatia Like a Local
Island of Brac Croatia – WindSurf like a boss!

You can windsurf, dive or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in many of the Croatian Islands – but Bol has special powers along this stretch of the Dalmatian Coast. The Maestral winds that blow along the southern part of Brač Island make perfect conditions for wind and surf sports.

Both experienced windsurfers or those looking to start should check out the team at Zoo-Station (thanks for the photos, guys) for equipment hire and windsurfing classes in Bol. For kayaking and SUP hire, you have several places to go for equipment for hire at easy-to-find locations.

Windsurfing is just one of the many fun things we recommend for kids to do in Croatia.

15. Rent A Bike In Bol

If you want to arrange bike hire for your Croatian family holidays – there are many places on this Croatian Island to do that; ask your hotel about the closest place to rent a bike in Bol. With an abundance of things to do in such scenic surroundings, you should get on two wheels. A detailed bike map of Bol can be printed off or picked up a copy at the tourist office.

16. Get Pampered At The Spa In Bol

Bluesun things to do in Bol Elaphusa Spa - Travel Croatia like a local
Things to do in Bol – Thalasso Spa

Make a booking at one of the largest and best wellness centers in Croatia. A welcoming team of masseurs & beauty therapists awaits to pamper you at the Thalasso Wellness Centre.

Stretching out in 4,000 m2 of glorious relaxation space, the spa at Elaphusa is one of the largest wellness centers along the Adriatic. I can recommend you book one (or all!) of their unique olive oil treatments. I had both the olive oil facial and the full-body massages in this luxurious spa. Both left me feeling hydrated and wishing I had more time.

17. Visit The Churches Of Bol

There are several churches for you to admire in Bol. The Gothic-Renaissance church, Our Lady of Grace, is the most famous from the 15th century. Standing at the altar is a renaissance painting of Madonna and Child with Saints, painted by the famed Jacopo Tintoretto. The altarpiece was restored in 2003 at the Croatian Conservation Institute, and I was fortunate enough to see the painting in an exclusive private viewing earlier this year. Once open again to the public, I would encourage you to visit to appreciate this intricate portrait close-up.

18. Visit The Local Market In Bol

Scout out the place known as the ‘Kings Stairs,’ and you’ll find the heart of the city, where fruit and vegetables can be purchased. Locals are here daily with the season’s best offerings. The Kings Stairs, where the markets are, were built in honor of Emperor Francis Joseph in 1875.

19. Marvel At The Branislav DešKović Gallery

The Branislav Dešković Gallery is complete with over 380 exhibits collected over 50 years from artists born in or inspired by Bol. The gallery is positioned in the port of Bol, in a 17th-century renaissance-baroque palace named after the first Impressionist sculptor in Croatia, Dešković, of which many of his sculptures are on display. You can’t miss the gallery if you look out for the huge dog statue by the entrance.

As the trees rustle and the waves lap against the shore, don’t forget to take the time to daydream while in Bol.

Is Brac Island Family-Friendly?

Hint: we think that Croatia family holidays are perfect for kids of all ages, even teenagers – yes, we said teens! Deciding if a Croatia holiday is the right choice for your family can be made easier with this helpful guide to Croatia for families. The islands of Brac and Bol, mainly, are excellent for families. With safe beaches and a friendly and welcoming attitude for your wee ones.

So, after you tour Croatia – well, okay, Bol, you’ll need a place to rest your head. Where shall you sleep?

Accommodation In Brac

Now that you know of just some things to do in Bol, you’ll need to know where to stay in Brac. Because Brac Island is so much more than just Bol, there are several places you can find beach accommodation, luxury accommodation, or perhaps you need budget accommodation. Croatia vacation rentals are also available on Brac Island – you need to book your Brac accommodation in advance to get a good deal and nab the best of the bunch.

Croatian villas can vary in price, from ones with many zeros at the end to a very budget-friendly bunch. The Brac villas on offer are booked well in advance, but there is an abundance of them.


Accommodation In Bol

What to do on Brac. Elaphusa | Croatia Travel Blog
What to do on Brac. Stay at Bluesun Elaphusa

Enjoy 4-star luxury accommodation at the Bluesun Hotel Elaphusa; it’s where we enjoyed views of Zlatni Rat and one of the other Croatian Island hotspots – Hvar. Family-friendly Croatia resorts come no better than Hotel Elaphusa. It is a 10-minute leisurely stroll to Zlatni Rat along the shaded promenade and provides exceptional service. It has our tick of approval.

More Bol Accommodation Options

Beach accommodation right by Zlatni Rat Beach costs a little more, so consider booking vacation rentals just a few streets back to save some money (and avoid the late-night noise).

BOL ACCOMMODATION

We’ve selected a range of accommodations in Bol to get your search started:

      • Bluesun Hotel Borak
      • Hotel Bol
      • Apartments Lovely Croatia
      • Villa Christine Bol
      • Villa Dalmatina
      • Penthouse Apartments Bol
      • Bluesun Hotel Bonaca – All Inclusive
      • Villa Ana Bol
      • Hotel Kastil
      • There is also one hostel, Hostel White House Bol

Getting To Brač Island On The Dalmatian Coast

Bol is situated in the southern part of Brač, Croatia, and there are a few ways to get to the island. After all, Croatia Island hopping is a part of the experience while visiting Croatia.

Ferry: There are regular ferry connections from many places, including Split. Look for ferry connections to Supetar, which is on the opposite side of Bol, and then you can drive or catch a taxi or bus and arrive in Bol 40minutes later. Or look for the catamaran connections to Bol.

With so many things to do in Bol, which will you try first?

In Partnership With Bluesun Hotels

Bluesun Hotels Logos

This post is part of a series For Bluesun Hotels. Bluesun Hotels provided all transport, accommodation, meals, and guides, but all opinions are mine. All recommendations are given wholeheartedly and without bias.

 
 
 

Comments (59)

  1. Bol looks like a great place to visit, so many things to do. Some of the hiking, monastery, and caves sound fun!

  2. A masonry school! How awesome would that be to see. I would also love to go around and photograph all of the different statues in that area.

  3. Great tips, but Zlati Rat is where I would be spending my time I guess. Even though a spot of wine tasting and some lunch sound great too, and the monastery and masonry school sound worth a visit!

  4. Loved this post! Im going to Crotia next week and your blog will be an invaluable resource :)

    1. Thanks Sabina! I have loads of info I have yet to add to the blog (I need another 24 hours in the day) so just ask me if you have any questions :)

  5. Okay, lets just talk about this cave here for a minute…. HOLY COW!!! I mean, firstly, kudos on the sweet play toy. As if the turquoise waters and craggy cliffs didn’t make me a believer, now you have cave carvings named after the likes of a dragon. Like, I’m betting when I get there, you’re going to have to peel me off the pavement to go home. What an amazing place. I’m telling you Sarah, mark my words, you’re going to be stuck with being my tour guide at some point! HAHA! <3

  6. Bol and Brac Island look delightful! Would love to try some of those wines :-)…

  7. I’d love to do any of these! Beaches, coffee, the cave, wine tasting…it all sounds so wonderful!

  8. Zlati rat looks beautiful. I have never heard of Bol and am glad I am planning a future trip to just spend in Croatia so I can add this to the list and not be in rush around the country. Thanks for sharing these great tips!

    1. yes, this is not the place for rushing. people take 2 hours to enjoy a coffee.

  9. Sculpture scouting… what an interesting activity! Great suggestions, will have to keep these in mind if I am ever in the area!

  10. I had no idea there was so much to do in Croatia. I always love the beach, adventure activities, and trying the local food, but the monasteries look really interesting. Hope to make it for a visit someday!

  11. I dig those 360 videos you have with this post and now of course, I’m starving after having gazed upon those amazing dishes. Croatia is a definite must do!

  12. That looks like just too much to bare, however do you cope? :) food by the water would be top of my list!

  13. I have been to Croatia just once and can’t wait to go back. Bol looks like a lovely place to spend some time, especially for that food and those views!

  14. I went to Croatia just once on a cruise and only saw Dubrovnik and the countryside.
    Bol looks absolutely amazing!

  15. So many great things to see and do! I’d probably just end up on the beach if it weren’t for posts like these :)

  16. I’m picking stone sculpture making and sculpture-scouting – seems like the most unique of local activities :)

  17. I shouldn’t read your blog, this makes me want to skip my other travel plans and head to Croatia… ;) That said, maybe that is a good thing! Right now especially that spa in Bol is calling my name….

  18. Wow! There is a lot to do there! I love all things history and my boyfriend loves anything that is photogenic, so we would have an amazing time there, it seems. I think my favorite from the list would be visiting the old churches. I just love them.

  19. We *sort of* went to Brac. We had a swim stop just off the island. It was beautiful. We were there for an entire morning. It was my second favourite swim stop on my trip– my favourite was between 3 deserted islands where we spent a couple of hours swimming from island to island. Careful to avoid the sea urchins tho!

  20. Picking up a Brac stone souvenir actually has more meaning to it than meets the eye. Perhaps Two of the worlds most famous building in the world THE TAJ MAHAL in India and the WHITE HOUSE in Washington are made from Brac Stone.

  21. Now i’m grateful that i stumbled onto your website! We are planning a trip and i have so many new places to think about going now.

    1. So glad you found us! We have lots of places that we have been to, and have not yet written about – so ask away if you need help with something you can find.

  22. The town of Pucisca on the island of Brac is a gem and famous for the famous Brac stone used to build the many beautiful stone buildings around Croatia. The neighbouring town of Milna is also stunning. Brac is ghe best island in Croatia for beautiful old small towns. Everyone should try and visit them and will be easier when the airport opens there shortly

  23. Hi Sarah-Jane.
    On our first day in Bol we discovered this web page sitting on Zlatni Rat beach. For sure we will check out the other 18 recommandations, as this was the first in your list.
    Greetings from Belgium

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!