About Makarska
The lively port city of Makarska is located on the Riviera of the southern Dalmatian coast and does not enjoy as much attention as the nearby Dubrovnik or Split, but it should. It is a mid-Dalmatian coastal town and a popular seaside resort with a beautiful old town, vibrant nightlife, and some of Croatia's best beaches. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear sea, the rugged landscapes of Mount Biokovo, vibrant nightlife, and various accommodation options, including sensational villas. The city also has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and is very close to the islands of Hvar and Brač.
What Makes Makarska Special?
This beautiful resort town is located in the center of Central Dalmatia, south of the coastal metropolis Split and the Omiš Riviera. Situated at the foot of Biokovo (the country's second-highest mountain), the small town overlooks a huge mountain range that stretches along the coast in both directions. This city is the heart of the Riviera, and other places there include Brela, Baška Voda, Tučepi, Podgora, Blato, and many more. It is mainly the paradisiacal beaches and the many hidden coves that make the Riviera a perfect destination. This fairy-tale town is also an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of Dalmatia and neighboring Bosnia and Herzegovina. Split, Trogir, Dubrovnik, Mostar, and many other places are all easily reachable from the city on a daily basis.
During your vacation here, you can enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The most famous is Punta Rata, which, along with the imposing Brela Rock, has become a landmark of the Riviera. The tourist offer is also perfect. There are numerous good restaurants, traditional taverns, great bars, a vibrant nightlife, and fantastic accommodations in every price range.
When is the Best Time to Visit Makarska?
If you're planning a visit, you might wonder when the best time to travel is. The hottest months are July and August when temperatures can reach between 30 and 34 degrees Celsius. However, this is also the peak season and the busiest time of the year. From June to September, the weather is beautiful, the tourist season is in full swing, and the city is full of activities and people.
So, if you want to visit the city in the high season and don't mind the crowds, it's best to visit the city in July or August and experience the city in all its glory. If you prefer fewer crowds and less hot weather, September is the right month for you. In May and October, temperatures range from 19 to 20 degrees, but it's still sunny and pleasant. The winter season lasts from October to March. The city goes into hibernation during this time, and most hotels and restaurants are closed during these months. This is the perfect time to enjoy the local culture of the city, as there is practically no tourism.
What Should You Definitely Visit?
When visiting here, you can look forward to a whole range of sights and excursions. To help you keep track, we've summarized the best things you can do:
The breathtaking white beaches
Walks and swimming are the two main activities in the city. The coastal stretch known as the Makarska Riviera boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, with tiny hidden coves bordering the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. If you're on foot, just head north until you find the perfect spot. The city beach is a long promenade with cafes, restaurants, and ice cream vendors. The tiny Nugal Beach, only accessible on foot or by boat, is one of the most stunning in the area - it is also known for having no dress code. To get here, take the footpath about 2 kilometers south of the city. The path leads through a pine forest. If you're looking for some seclusion, be sure to check out Ramova Beach.
Sailing through the clear blue sea
A summer stay here should include at least one boat trip, as the sparkling waters of the Adriatic beckon. Experienced sailors can charter their own boat, while you can relax on crewed charter boats or day trips on deck, enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Adriatic Sea. Hvar and Brač are just a short boat ride away, and many local agencies offer day trips to the islands.
The Old Town
The city has a rich history and culture, and there are several historic sites worth visiting if you want to explore the region's history. The old town is small but beautiful, with a lovely main square, a daily farmers' market, and a beautiful promenade that is the heart of the coastal town and invites you to take a walk. The main attraction is the famous Kačićev Square with the Church of St. Mark, and the picturesque Kalelarga Street should not be missed on a tour of the center. In the summer months, the square comes alive with local festivals and music events.
Biokovo Nature Park
Makarska is located at the foot of the majestic Biokovo mountain range. Biokovo Nature Park is one of the most spectacular attractions in the city. This imposing mountain range is the perfect place for hiking, long bike rides, or simply enjoying the surrounding nature. A 23-kilometer panoramic road leads high up into the park, offering countless views of the mountain landscape. One of the highlights of the park and one of the city's most famous attractions is the Biokovo Skywalk, opened in 2020. This is a mountain experience you won't soon forget. It's an observation point that protrudes over the cliffs with a glass walkway unique in Europe, and it will definitely enchant you.
Best Day Trips
Thanks to its great location, you can take a wide range of day trips from Makarska. One of the most popular day trip destinations is certainly the old town of Split. It is only 60 kilometers away and delights as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From here, you also have the opportunity to visit the city of Mostar in Bosnia or even the city of Dubrovnik in the south on a day trip.
The Riviera
The Riviera has been one of Croatia's most popular destinations for years. The small coastal towns are ideal for relaxation, surrounded by the beautiful sea on one side and the impressive Biokovo mountain on the other. This approximately 50-kilometer coastal stretch in southern Dalmatia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and impressive holiday destinations.
The Punta Rata Beach in Brela is a true jewel on the Riviera and is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. Its landmark, the Brela Rock, adorns many postcards of the country. And truly, this bright pebble beach with the turquoise blue sea is simply breathtaking. Tučepi is one of the smaller towns on the Riviera. It is a popular destination and a place where you can relax on vacation. Adventurous souls will be delighted to hear that there is a zip line near Tučepi. Podgora has some beautiful beaches, each with its own special features. The small town has one of the most beautiful sunsets, as it always faces the sunny side. There are many other towns on the Riviera, so you can explore them on your own.
The Vibrant Nightlife
While Hvar may be Croatia's party island, Makarska doesn't fall short when it comes to nightlife. The city comes alive from June to September. During the Fishermen's Night, which takes place almost every week in July and August, the harbor area is filled with a cheerful folk festival. At this festival, people gather in traditional costumes and participate in fun, simple games. Young people from neighboring towns often flock here on weekend evenings. Peter Pan or Marakana Club is very popular among locals if you like Turbo-Folk music from the Balkans. Another excellent option is Deep Makarska, a club located in a cave. The cave is atmospherically lit and offers a magnificent view.
What Can You Do Here with Kids?
With its relaxed atmosphere, sparkling turquoise waters, and colorful sunsets, the city is a wonderful family-friendly destination. The 50-kilometer coastline is surrounded by pine forests, and the blue-green sea offers stunning hues.
You should definitely visit the harbor. From here, you can take a ferry to the island of Brač (known for the white pebble beach Zlatni Rat). One of the most beautiful attractions in the city is visiting the observatory. It is built on a monument located on Glavica Hill. It is surrounded by dense pine forests, which provide extra darkness at night, making it exceptional for stargazing.
In Krka National Park, you can take a boat trip through the park, hike on various trails, observe waterfalls, and even swim in some areas of Krka National Park. Visiting the Skywalk Biokovo with children is an experience they will never forget. Skywalk Biokovo is a glass-covered platform located on the edge of a cliff in Biokovo Nature Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Adriatic Sea and the islands of Hvar and Brač.
The Blue Lake and the Red Lake are both natural wonders that provide stunning scenery and unique landscapes, but they require a car trip as they are located in Imotski. Both lakes are stunning and are great for introducing children to the beauty of nature.
Why Renting a Luxury Villa in Makarska is a Good Option?
The sunny climate and postcard-perfect scenery, turquoise sea, and impressive mountains attract visitors to this paradise time and time again. A lively nightlife and a rich array of activities are available, as well as day trips to nearby islands. In many ways, the Riviera is the perfect destination, offering an excellent climate with an average of 2750 hours of sunshine per year.
Makarska provides a dreamy backdrop for your vacation time. You couldn't ask for a more beautiful place for your Croatian vacation. Because of the breathtaking scenery, Villsy offers only the most exquisite villas in the area, justifying such beauty. The Riviera, with its juxtaposition of mountains, sea, and rivers, is also a perfect playground for adventurers. And no matter what activity you choose during your stay in a villa with a pool or a holiday home, it will be an unforgettable experience.
