Makarska

Makarska, located on the stunning Dalmatian coast of Croatia, is a charming coastal town known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and the majestic Biokovo Mountain backdrop. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, lively culture, and relaxed Mediterranean vibes—ideal for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

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See

Itineraries

• Day 1: Explore Makarska’s Old Town, visit St. Mark’s Church, and take a leisurely walk along the harbor. Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant overlooking the Adriatic.
• Day 2: Hike or drive to the Biokovo Mountain for panoramic views, and then unwind at one of the local beaches. In the evening, explore the Makarska Summer Festival for local music and cultural performances.
• Day 3: Take a boat trip to nearby islands, such as Hvar or Brac, or visit the nearby town of Omiš for more historical and natural attractions.

Natural Attractions

• Biokovo Mountain: The Biokovo Nature Park is a must-see for nature lovers. It’s known for its rugged peaks, hiking trails, and the Skywalk, a glass platform offering breathtaking views of the coast and the islands.
• Makarska Riviera Beaches: The town is famous for its long stretch of pebble beaches with crystal-clear waters. You can relax at popular spots like Punta Rata, or seek quieter retreats in hidden coves along the coastline.
• Kamen Brela: A small rocky island just off the coast, it’s an iconic sight and perfect for a picturesque swim.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

• St. Mark’s Church: A beautiful example of Baroque architecture in the heart of the Old Town, this church is dedicated to the town’s patron saint and offers insight into the region’s religious history.
• Makarska City Museum: Housed in a historic building, this museum showcases artifacts from ancient times to the modern era, including Roman inscriptions and Venetian-era items.
• The Franciscan Monastery and its Museum: Located on a hill above the town, the monastery offers stunning views and contains a museum with religious and cultural exhibits.
• Makarska Harbor: A scenic harbor with fishing boats and yachts, ideal for a leisurely walk or for catching a ferry to nearby islands.

Visit Next

• Split: Just under 2 hours by car, Split is home to the famous Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The vibrant city offers a mix of ancient history, modern culture, and beautiful beaches.
• Omiš: A historic town known for its pirate history and stunning views. Omiš is just a short drive from Makarska and is perfect for exploring medieval ruins, canyon hikes, and enjoying the Adriatic coast.
• Dubrovnik: Although a bit farther (around 3 hours by car), Dubrovnik is a must-see for its well-preserved Old Town, stunning city walls, and Game of Thrones fame.
• Hvar Island: A quick boat ride from Makarska, Hvar is famous for its lavender fields, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

What to Do

Activities

• Hiking and Nature Walks: One of the best ways to experience the stunning scenery is to hike up Biokovo Mountain or along the Makarska Riviera’s coastal paths. The Biokovo Skywalk, with its glass floor, is a thrilling spot offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands.
• Water Sports: Makarska’s clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and jet-skiing. Many beaches also offer pedal boats and paddleboards for rent.
• Boat Tours: Take a boat trip along the coast to explore nearby islands like Brac and Hvar. You can also charter a private boat for a more exclusive experience or join a guided tour for a deeper dive into the region’s maritime history.
• Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the scenic roads along the coast or venture into the hills for a more challenging route.
• Parasailing: For an adrenaline rush and breathtaking views, parasailing over Makarska’s beaches is a must-do.

Nightlife

Makarska’s nightlife is a mix of relaxed beach bars and lively nightclubs. The main strip along the beach is dotted with bars offering sunset cocktails, while the town center has clubs where you can dance until late into the night.

• Deep Makarska: A popular nightclub where you can enjoy electronic music and dance with locals and tourists alike.

Eat

Typical Cuisine

Makarska offers delicious Dalmatian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and locally sourced produce.

• Grilled Fish and Seafood: Fresh fish and seafood, such as brancin (sea bass) and hobotnica (octopus), are often grilled and served with olive oil, garlic, and lemon.
• Pasticada: A slow-cooked beef stew with wine, vegetables, and prunes, served with gnocchi or mashed potatoes—ideal for meat lovers.
• Peka: A traditional Croatian dish where meat and vegetables are cooked under a bell-shaped lid in a fire, resulting in tender and flavorful food.
• Dalmatian Prosciutto (Pršut): Dry-cured ham that’s often served with cheese, olives, and bread as an appetizer.
• Fritule: Sweet, fried dough balls, typically served with powdered sugar, perfect for a light dessert or snack.

Restaurant Recommendations

• Restaurant Kalalarga – For authentic Dalmatian dishes, including grilled fish and seafood. Located in the heart of the old town at Kalalarga 2, it offers a cozy atmosphere with a lovely view of the square.
• Konoba Podgorje – A great spot for trying pasticada and other traditional dishes. It’s located at Podgorska 1, a short drive from the town center.
• Restoran Kamen Brela – Known for its fresh fish and stunning views of the sea, this is a perfect choice for dinner by the beach. Located at Punta Rata Beach, Brela, just a 20-minute drive from Makarska.
• Riviera – Located at Marina Makarska, this restaurant offers a fantastic selection of fresh seafood dishes and Mediterranean-inspired meals. The ambiance is relaxing, and it’s a great spot for a sunset dinner.

Buy

• Makarska Market (Tržnica Makarska) – This is the place to go for fresh local produce, cheeses, and homemade products. Located at Trg Kralja Tomislava, it’s a wonderful spot to find authentic Croatian products like olive oil, honey, and dried figs.
• Art & Craft Shop Stipe – For unique, locally made souvenirs, such as pottery, hand-woven items, and paintings of Makarska’s stunning landscapes. Located at Don Mihovila Pavlinovića 5, it’s a hidden gem for gifts and keepsakes.
• Croatia Shop – Located at Ante Starčevića 9, this shop offers a range of Croatian products, from olive oil and wine to textiles and handmade jewelry.

Visit

Best Time to Visit

• Avoiding the Crowds: For a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, visit in May, early June, or late September to October. During these months, the weather is still warm, but the summer tourist rush has diminished. You’ll have more space on the beaches and at popular attractions.
• For Activities: If you’re keen on hiking and outdoor adventures, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are perfect, as the temperatures are mild and ideal for exploring Biokovo Mountain or cycling along the coastline.
• Unique Festivals: If you’re interested in experiencing local culture, plan your visit around the Makarska Summer Festival (July-August), which celebrates Dalmatian traditions with music, dance, and performances. St. Mark’s Day (June 13th) and Feast of the Assumption (August 15th) are also notable for traditional processions and festivities.
• Best Photography Motifs: For breathtaking views, the golden hours around sunrise and sunset are perfect. The beaches and Biokovo Mountain provide stunning backdrops, and the old town’s narrow streets come alive with charm in the early mornings. The harbor, with its colorful boats and vibrant sunset views, is a photographer’s dream.

How Long to Visit (Ideal Trip Duration)

• 3 Days is perfect if you want a short getaway to enjoy the beaches, explore the town, and take a day trip to nearby attractions like Biokovo or the islands.
• 4-5 Days allows you to explore more thoroughly, with time for hiking, a day trip to Split or Omiš, and a chance to really soak in the local culture and food scene.
• A Week or More would allow for a relaxing stay with more excursions, including boat trips, longer hikes, or visits to nearby towns like Hvar or Dubrovnik.

Arrival & Transport

Get There

• By Plane: The nearest airport to Makarska is Split Airport (SPU), located about 80 km (1.5 hours by car) away. It’s well-connected to major European cities, with both international and domestic flights. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Makarska.
• By Train: There is no direct train service to Makarska, but you can take a train to Split, and then continue by bus or car (about 1.5 hours).
• By Ship: During the summer months, ferries and catamarans operate from Split and other Dalmatian islands to Makarska’s harbor. This is a scenic and relaxing way to travel along the coast.
• By Car: If you’re driving, Makarska is easily accessible via the A1 highway from Split or Dubrovnik. The drive along the coastline is beautiful, and having a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities like Split, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb to Makarska. Buses are comfortable and provide an affordable way to reach the town.

Get Around

• By Plane: There are no domestic flights within Croatia specifically for Makarska, as the town is relatively small and easily accessible by car or bus.
• By Train: There are no train services directly to Makarska, but buses and cars are common for intercity travel.
• By Ship: Ferries and catamarans are available to nearby islands and other coastal towns like Split and Hvar.
• By Car: Renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore Makarska and its surroundings at your own pace. There are plenty of rental agencies in town and at the airport.
• By Bus: Makarska has a local bus network for getting around the town and surrounding areas. For longer trips to nearby cities, buses are available.

Stay

Luxury:

• • Hotel Mirjam – Located at Put Cvitacke 5, this upscale hotel is just a short walk from the beach and offers modern amenities, including a spa, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. Prices range from €150-€200 per night for a double room.

Mid-range:

• • Hotel Osejava – Situated in the center of Makarska, this hotel offers stunning views of the harbor and Biokovo Mountain. It features an outdoor pool, a bar, and stylish rooms. Located at Obala kralja Tomislava 1, the average price is around €100-€150 per night for a double room.

Budget:

• • Pansion Oaza – A family-run guesthouse offering simple, comfortable rooms with a friendly atmosphere. It’s located just a short walk from the beach, at Dr. Josipa 4, with prices ranging from €50-€70 per night for a double room.

Apartments:

• • Apartments Pera – If you prefer self-catering, this apartment complex offers fully equipped units with kitchens, a great option for longer stays or families. Located at Cesta sv. Marka 16, prices are around €70-€100 per night.