A seaside festival hub
The fortunes of Tisno – which was, until recently, a sleepy fishing village – were forever transformed by the arrival of Garden Festival, which kicked off Croatia’s festival scene more than a decade ago. Today, there are several major international festivals in Tisno, taking place in a natural amphitheatre with its own private bay, a 10-minute climb from town.
Tisno holidays are all about sunset boat parties, fabulous scenery and late-night hedonism. This relaxed, undemanding town is spread across two sides of a bridge connecting the island of Murter to the mainland. Nearby, the epic scenery of Kornati, an otherworldly archipelago, and the green cascading waterfalls of Krka make fantastic day trips. What’s more, the festival action is mostly contained within the Garden Resort site, so if you don’t fancy a weekend of Ibiza-style partying, holidays to Tisno can be as peaceful and relaxed as you like.
Your Tisno questions, answered
There are lots of festivals throughout the summer season, but don’t let that put you off. The vibe is more relaxed away from the festival site and there’s no buzzing, Ibiza-esque bar strip.
Festival attendees snap up the villas, rooms and rental apartments in July and August, so book your accommodation well in advance to secure your place.
Tisno has two identities. Between July and August, it’s one of Europe’s festival capitals. Outside those months, it’s a pleasant Adriatic village enjoyed by families.
Best things to do in Tisno
Bring your snorkel
Tisno’s crystal-clear Adriatic waters provide the ideal conditions for swimming, snorkelling and diving. An underwater diving trail is located on this stretch of the coast.
Rave on a boat
The historic Argonaughty boat hosts revellers on parties that feature world-famous DJs while gliding through the sparkling water around the islands of the Murter channel.
Try the seafood
The island of Murter offers terrific seafood. Its family-run restaurants specialise in sautéed mussels in garlic, best washed down with a glass of local white wine.