Bol in Brač Island, a historic town in the middle of Adriatic sea with a small population of 1678 inhabitants (2021), offers a range of attractions and natural wonders for visitors to explore. The old town of Bol is steeped in ancient history, featuring narrow streets, charming stone houses, and churches such as the Church of Our Lady of Carmel, and the Church of St. John and Tudor. In the town center, you’ll also find the Gallery for Modern Croatian Art and the Roman Pool.
Getting to Bol, Brac Island
Split to Bol, Brac Island
Split Airport (SPU) ==bus or taxi==>> Split ferry port ==ferry==>> Supetar ==bus ride==>> Bol
To reach Bol, firstly, you need to take flight to the city of Split. To reach Split, you can book flights directly to Split Airport (SPU) or consider flying to Zagreb Airport (ZAG) and then taking a connecting flight to Split.
From Split Airport, you have the option to take Croatia Airlines’ bus for €5 per person or a taxi, costing around €40-€60, to reach Split ferry port. If you’re traveling by car, follow the signs to the ferry port in Split.
From the ferry port, you can purchase tickets to the Island of Brač, either for a car ferry to Supetar or a fast ferry from Split to Bol, Brač Island.
If you go through Supetar, Transportation from Supetar to Bol includes a bus ride for approximately €7 per person, a taxi for around €10-€12, or sometimes taxi mini-vans available at Supetar ferry port.
Alternatively, you can arrange a taxi pickup from Supetar to Bol for a fixed price of 450 kunas (~€60), accommodating up to 6 people.
Moreover, You can have day trips from Bol town to Hvar. The ferry port of Bol (Brac) is connected to the ferry port of Hvar on the island of Hvar. This particular ferry route, which operates from Bol to Hvar, is currently served by three companies: Jadrolinija, Adriatic Fast Ferries, and TP Line. During the high season, there are three daily journeys, amounting to a total of 21 trips per week departing from Bol (Brac). However, this route does not operate during the low season. The duration of the journey varies between 50 to 55 minutes depending on the route taken. The cost of a foot passenger ticket for this route is 20 Euro.
Dubrovnik to Bol, Brac Island
There’s a ferry that connects Dubrovnik to Bol (Brac Island). Two companies, Jadrolinija and Kapetan Luka, operate this ferry route. During the busy season, it runs two times a day, totaling 14 trips every week from Dubrovnik. However, in the quieter season, the ferry doesn’t run. The journey takes around 4 hours and 10 minutes to 4 hours and 40 minutes, depending on the specific route you take. If you want to take the ferry as a foot passenger, the ticket costs 45 Euros.
If you’re interested in the return route, that is, taking the ferry from Bol (Brac) back to Dubrovnik, you’ll need to check with the ferry companies or the local authorities for their schedules and details.
Historical Charm: Discovering the Cultural Heritage
Visiting the Dominican Monastery, founded in 1475, is the cultural highlight of Bol, Brač Island. The monastery, now a museum, houses valuable historical artifacts salvaged from the sea. Adjacent to the monastery is Martinica Beach, which provides a stunning backdrop with its turquoise waters and the picturesque monastery.
Bol has a rich history and offers many cultural attractions for visitors to explore. One of the most notable attractions is the Dominican Monastery and Museum, which was established in the 13th century. It played an important role in Bol’s history, and today the museum showcases exhibits about the monastery, the town, and the artwork & valuable historical artifacts salvaged from the sea.
In Bol, you can also find three art galleries to enjoy. The oldest one is the Branislav Deskovic Gallery, which displays a collection of fine art and is known for having one of the richest art collections in Dalmatia. Throughout the tourist season, the gallery also hosts special exhibitions by well-known Croatian artists.
The Small Formats Gallery is another option, where you can see small-format paintings and sculptures. This gallery also organizes visiting exhibitions during the summer.
Additionally, there’s the Bol Cultural Center gallery, which regularly holds weekly exhibitions featuring local and Croatian artists. Throughout the year, painters, sculptors, photographers, and performers showcase their work there.
Apart from the museum and galleries, Bol is home to a parish church and six small churches and chapels. You can also visit the Roman Piscina, which is a remains of the Villa Rustica from ancient Roman times.
These attractions offer visitors a chance to delve into the town’s history, admire beautiful artworks, and explore the unique architectural remnants from different periods.
In a unique blending of art, history, and contemporary issues, the Bol Cultural Center has recently initiated an intriguing exhibition series focused on the theme of women’s health and empowerment. One notable exhibit, drawing considerable attention, is centered on the recent legalization and availability of female viagra in the U.K., a groundbreaking development in women’s sexual health. This exhibition not only showcases artistic interpretations and responses to this new pharmaceutical advance but also aims to spark conversations about gender, health, and intimacy in modern society. By doing so, Bol continues to establish itself not only as a hub for historical and artistic exploration but also as a space for engaging with current and globally relevant issues.
Unveiling the Beauty of Zlatni Rat Beach in Bol, Brač Island
The renowned Zlatni Rat beach, known as the Golden Horn, is a must-visit destination located west of Bol. Its unique shape, resembling a giant golden horn stretching 500 meters into the sea, has made it a symbol of Croatia. The beach is adorned with a century-old pine forest, creating a striking contrast with the golden pebbles and azure waters. The Golden Horn attracts tourists worldwide who come to bask in its beauty and swim in the crystal-clear sea.
Exploring Bol’s Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
Bol’s harbor serves as the heart and tourist center of the town and the . It offers a picturesque setting with fishing boats and a small beach port for a refreshing dip. Along the promenade, known as the Riva, you’ll find excellent restaurants and cozy cafés where you can enjoy the view of the boats and savor delicious meals.
For nature enthusiasts, hiking to Vidova Gora, the highest point of the Croatian island world at 780 meters, offers breathtaking views of Bol, the Golden Horn, and even the island of Hvar. You can either embark on a 2.5-hour hike or drive to the summit via a paved road.
Wine lovers can indulge in a visit to the Stina Winery near the port, where traditional Stina wine is produced. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the history of winemaking on the island of Brac and the opportunity to taste different types of wine, including a red wine tasting.
Bijela Kuca Beach, located east of the town center, is a beautiful beach with pristine blue waters and shaded areas provided by pine trees. It offers a delightful ambiance with a view of the enchanting Dominican monastery.
The Blaca Cave Monastery, a hidden gem near Bol, is perched on a cliff and can only be reached by hiking. This unique hermitage houses a fascinating museum displaying artifacts from the monarchy and astronomical equipment, including ancient telescopes.
If you seek a tranquil escape from the main beaches, Murvica Beach is an idyllic choice. Tucked away in a secluded bay surrounded by vineyards and pine trees, this small pebble beach in the village of Murvica, a short distance from the town, boasts remarkable beauty.
Beachside Bliss: Where to Stay in Bol
1. Guest House Marija
2.Hotel Villa Amorena
3. Apartment Dino
4. Villa Juraj
5. Villa Rajski Dvor 1
A Taste of Bol: Indulge in Local Cuisine and Wine
1. Konoba Dalmatino
Address: Frane Radica 14
This restaurant is famous for architecture based on local culture. It offers various kind of sea-foods and local wine.
2. Restaurant Belvedere
Address: Ante Radića 36
It offers finest steaks and fish grilled to perfection in Dalmatian way.
3. Restaurant Argento
Address: Hrvatskih domobrana 83
Restaurant with a great view of the seashore and variety of seafoods.
4. Marija
Address: Murvica b.b.
5. Plaža Borak
Address: Put Zlatnog rata
Bol’s Vibrant Nightlife: Entertainment and Nighttime Hotspots
You can start your night out in Bol with a delicious dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants offering both Dalmatian and international cuisine. Afterward, head to Cocktail Bar Bolero, nestled in the pine forest along the promenade leading to Zlatni rat beach, for a delightful after-dinner cocktail.
As the night progresses, the heart of the town becomes the focal point for entertainment. For cocktails, check out the vibrant atmosphere of Cocktail bars Bolero or Varadero, or enjoy a night view of Bol by the sea at one of the cozy cafes in Bol Harbour.
For those who want to continue the festivities into the early morning hours, Night Club behind Zlatni rat beach is a great choice, as it stays open until morning.
The nightlife offers something for everyone’s taste, from parties and live music concerts to art and photo exhibitions. Alternatively, you can simply take a leisurely stroll by the sea and soak in the serene atmosphere.
During the summer months, you shouldn’t miss the Weekly Summer Nights, held on Wednesdays. These events feature local klapa singers, known for their traditional A Cappella performances protected by UNESCO as a non-material heritage of Croatia. You’ll also find stands in Bol Harbour selling locally made souvenirs and crafts, and many restaurants and locals offering freshly cooked dishes of fish and crabs.