This Unspoiled Croatian Island is Among the World’s Most Underrated Destinations for 2026

While it may seem as if there are no places left on Earth that tourists haven’t discovered, there are still some less-visited destinations. Recently, Intrepid Travel released its 2026 “Not Hot List,” highlighting hidden treasures that have yet to be overtaken by overtourism while still being developed enough to cater to visitors. 

Landing at No. 4 is an island gem that provides an idyllic escape off the well-beaten tourist path: Vis Island. The furthest from the Croatian mainland, it offers unspoiled natural beauty and just the right amount of tourism development, thanks in part to being closed off to the public for roughly 40 years while used as a military base.

If you’re in need of a blissful escape, away from the buzz of electronics and the chaos of the “real world,” Vis is the perfect island for a digital detox or just to immerse yourself in tranquility. There’s plenty to do, but it can be just as enjoyable to relax on one of its postcard-perfect beaches like Stiniva, framed by towering cliffs and lapped by emerald waters. Enjoy swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear water in between soaking up the sun, perhaps sticking around until dusk to marvel at a sunset with the sky often filling with vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow. 

Vis has a rich winemaking history, dating back to at least 300 BC when a Greek writer wrote about its most famous grape, Plavac mali, noting that “compared to all others it was the very best wine he’d ever tried.” Today, visitors can take a tour of the island’s wineries to taste that same savory red alongside others such as Vugava, a honey-flavored white wine. 

Vis Town offers some intriguing history to explore, including an Austrian-built battery surrounded by fortifications, which hosts the Vis archaeological museum. Discover artifacts from as far back as 400 BC when the colony of Issa was founded at the site, including a bronze head of Artemis and a vast array of items related to the wine and fishing industries that have been a part of life here for over two thousand years.

While tourism development is limited, there are a variety of dining options, including outstanding family-run konobas (traditional Dalmatian restaurants) serving home-style Croatian fare with a focus on fresh seafood in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. When it comes to where to stay, you won’t find any high-rise resorts here, but there are small historic hotels, private apartment rentals, and guesthouses, with an emphasis on personalized service.