I'm looking for a chill vibe on a few islands in May for a few weeks. Mainly want to go eat some good seafood and check out some vineyards (and probably ship a few cases home if it's good stuff). Not looking for anything too fancy/expensive, or super busy. I'll probably skip Hvar since it seems to be the rich people spot. Mainly want rustic feel to it. I did some initial research into Brac, Vis & Korcula, but want to make sure there's nothing else I'm missing. My wife can speak the language, so no worries if it's limited english area. I'm flying into Split, but can end anywhere as long as there's a direct back to Rome.
The other question I have is should I rent a car and take the car around, or just take the passenger ferries and rent a car when I'm on the island (if that's even needed)?
If you have any insight into the car situation, and if you have any island suggestions and/or specific vineyard suggestions, that would be great!
Hey, since you have few weeks that you will be spending in Croatia having a car would be beneficial if it doesn't affect your budget. Getting around the islands can be expensive unless you use local bus transport which is not as frequent and usually islands like Hvar, Brac, Korcula have plenty of things to see and beaches which are for example 20-30 min car ride away from your location.
Other option would be to rent a scooter on each island you visit. This is a great option and you dont have to worry about finding parking.
I would personally recommend Brac and Korcula and sightseeing Hvar old town as a day trip from either Brac or Krocula.
Korcula guide, an island not to miss in Croatia
Best Day Trips from Korcula with a boat
Pucisca is really cute small town great for families.
Brac Day Trip Guide (With a car or without)
Brac or Hvar Croatia (Comparison Guide)
When you will be visiting Korcula you can get a tour to Peljesac which is 15 minute boat ride. They have award winning wines and you can book a tour and sampling if you contact the winery or for some you can show up unannounced also. But from personal experience its best to arrange it advance with the property.
Hvar is worthwhile seeing, can be expensive in respect to accommodation but food, drinks are same as on other mentioned islands. You dont have to stay in Hvar old town, we usually stayed in Jelsa, but had a car or a scooter to get around to a beach or another town to explore.
Hvar Day Trip Itinerary: Best Things to see and do on Hvar
Beaches on Hvar Island: Best Beaches Close to Hvar Town
In Croatia most popular locations for wines are Istria and Pljeseca but each of the islands usually have local wine makers so you can find wine tours on Brac, Korcula and Hvar aswell.
BEST Islands to visit by ferry from Split Croatia (Guide to Island Hopping)
If you will need any other city guides, restaurant guides, sightseeing, beaches in Croatia check this subs Megathread here which has all links compiled, this CROATIA TRAVEL GUIDE, or this Croatia Travel Map