If you’re planning a holiday on Murter Island, you may be surprised to learn that you don’t need a ferry to get there. Murter is one of the few Croatian islands that can be easily reached by car via the unique drawbridge in the town of Tisno. This bridge is one of the region’s most famous landmarks and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
The Only Road Connection Between Murter Island and the Mainland
The Tisno Drawbridge connects Murter Island with the Croatian mainland and is the island’s only road connection. It is located on the D121 road and crosses a narrow sea channel approximately 38 metres wide.
The name Tisno comes from the Croatian word tijesno, meaning “narrow”, perfectly describing the location where the bridge was built.
Thanks to the bridge, travelling to Murter Island is quick and convenient. During the summer season, thousands of cars, cyclists and pedestrians cross it every day.
A History Dating Back to the 18th Century
The first bridge at this location was built in the early 18th century after the Ottoman invasions had ended, creating the need to connect the island with the mainland.
The current mechanical drawbridge was constructed in 1968 and has undergone several renovations over the years.
Interestingly, the original bridge opened manually by swinging sideways. According to local chronicles, horse-drawn carts and even donkeys once crossed the bridge, although the animals were often reluctant to walk over the gaps between the wooden planks.
Why Does the Bridge Open Every Day?
Although Murter Island is accessible by road all year round, the bridge opens regularly to allow taller boats and yachts to pass safely into the Murter Sea.
When the bridge is raised, both road traffic and pedestrians are temporarily stopped for a few minutes while vessels pass through the narrow channel.
For visitors, this is one of the most enjoyable moments to watch sailing boats, fishing vessels and luxury yachts slowly glide beneath the bridge. Many tourists photograph or film this daily event, as it has become one of the most recognisable scenes in Tisno.
Tisno Drawbridge Opening Times
From 1 June to 15 September
- Every day: 09:00 – 09:20
- Every day: 18:00 – 18:20
From 16 September to 31 May
- Monday and Friday
- 09:00 – 09:20
During bridge openings, both road traffic and pedestrians must wait until the bridge is lowered again. If you’re travelling by car, it’s worth considering these times when planning your journey.
A Fun Fact for Boating Enthusiasts
When closed, the bridge provides a clearance of approximately 1.8 metres, allowing only smaller boats to pass underneath without opening.
Larger vessels must wait for the scheduled bridge opening.
Captains should also be aware of the relatively strong current in the narrow channel, which can reach around 4 knots and changes direction depending on tides, wind and sea conditions.
Where the Mainland Meets the Island
One of Tisno’s most fascinating features is its unique location. The historic town is spread across both the Croatian mainland and Murter Island, with the drawbridge connecting the two halves.
Within just a few minutes, visitors can walk from the mainland to the island and back again.
For this reason, the bridge has become one of the most photographed landmarks in the area and has symbolised Tisno for decades.
A Tradition That Lives On
The bridge is much more than a piece of infrastructure.
Every summer, Tisno hosts the traditional Bridge Games (Mostne Igre), a community celebration dedicated to this iconic landmark. The event usually includes sports competitions, cultural performances and evening gatherings for both locals and visitors.
Visitor Tip
If possible, plan your walk through Tisno about 15 minutes before the bridge opens.
You’ll be able to watch traffic come to a stop as the bridge slowly rises, allowing sailing boats and yachts to pass between the mainland and Murter Island.
Although the opening only lasts a few minutes, it is one of the most memorable experiences and a true symbol of a holiday on Murter Island.
Stay in Our Apartment and Experience Murter Island
Planning your holiday in Croatia? Stay in our apartment and experience one of Murter Island’s most iconic attractions for yourself. From the famous Tisno Drawbridge to crystal-clear beaches, charming coastal towns and unforgettable sunsets, you’ll discover why so many visitors return year after year.
Sources
- Murter Tourist Board – Bridge lifting timetable
- Municipality of Tisno – Bridge opening schedule 2026
- Tisno Tourist Board – Tisno Bridge
- Tisno Tourist Board – Geographical and Historical Position
- Municipality of Tisno – History of the Town
