Things To Do
in Makarska
Makarska is a picturesque coastal town located in southern Croatia, nestled between the sparkling Adriatic Sea and the majestic Biokovo mountain range. The town is known for its stunning beaches with crystal clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can explore the charming old town with its historic architecture, lively cafes, and vibrant marketplaces.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also take advantage of hiking trails in the nearby mountains or enjoy water sports along the beautiful coastline.
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please
- "Kako si?" - How are you?
- "Gdje je WC?" - Where is the restroom?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at one of Makarska's stunning beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the warm Adriatic Sea. Have breakfast at a beachside café with fresh pastries and coffee.
Indulge in a leisurely lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, tasting local delicacies. Spend your afternoon sunbathing or participating in water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.
As the sun sets, stroll along the promenade and enjoy people-watching. Choose a seaside restaurant for dinner and savor the local cuisine while admiring the views.
Get an early start and head to Biokovo National Park for stunning views and hiking trails. Enjoy a packed breakfast while taking in the fresh mountain air.
Explore the park's scenic paths and learn about its rich biodiversity. Pack a lunch to enjoy in the serene surroundings before continuing your adventure.
Return to Makarska and relax at a local café with a refreshing drink. Finish your day with dinner at an eatery offering traditional Croatian dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery along the Dalmatian coast.
- A vibrant atmosphere with a range of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and local festivals.
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Great for water sports such as sailing, diving, and windsurfing.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season, leading to a less relaxing experience.
- Higher prices for accommodations and dining in tourist hotspots.
- Limited public transportation options for exploring nearby areas.
- Potential language barrier for non-Croatian speakers.
- Some areas may experience commercial overdevelopment, impacting natural beauty.
Best Activities in Makarska
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning trails of Biokovo Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding landscape. The mountain is part of the Biokovo Nature Park and features various hiking routes suitable for different skill levels.
Relax on the beautiful Punta Rata beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and pebble shore. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports offered along the beach.
Take a scenic bike ride along the Makarska Riviera, enjoying the picturesque views of the coastline, charming villages, and lush greenery. There are designated bike paths for both casual and experienced cyclists.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters around Makarska. Discover hidden coves and beaches along the crystal-clear coastline while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Join a boat tour to nearby islands such as Brač and Hvar. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the islands' natural beauty and local culture.
For adventure seekers, try rock climbing in Biokovo Nature Park. The park offers several climbing routes catering to different levels of expertise amid stunning natural beauty.
Experience the thrill of paragliding from the Biokovo Mountains, offering spectacular aerial views of the Makarska Riviera and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
Discover the underwater world of the Adriatic Sea by going scuba diving. Several dive centers in Makarska offer guided dives to explore reefs and marine life.
Tours
Uncover the best of Makarska with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Makarska
Visit one of these nice places.
A glass-bottom skywalk located on the Biokovo mountain offers breathtaking views of the Makarska Riviera and the Adriatic Sea, making it a perfect spot for stunning photographs.
The picturesque harbor with its vibrant promenade, lined with cafes and palm trees, provides fantastic views of the coastline and opportunities for sunset photography.
Positioned on a rocky outcrop, the lighthouse provides panoramic views of the Makarska coastline and surrounding islands, ideal for capturing landscape photos.
This pebbly beach is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a stunning setting for beach photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A popular hiking destination that rewards adventurers with amazing views overlooking Makarska and the surrounding areas, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.
The central square of Makarska featuring the impressive church and surrounding cafes is a great spot for street photography and capturing local life.
Offers dramatic cliff views and is a great location for photography, especially with the contrast of the sea and rugged terrain.
Food in Makarska
Makarska Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Peka is a traditional Dalmatian dish typically prepared with veal, lamb, or octopus, along with vegetables, herbs, and olive oil. It's slow-cooked under a bell-like dome, allowing the ingredients to simmer to perfection. Recommended place to try: Konoba Kalalarga.
Must-Try!
A sweet treat named after the town, Makarana Cake is a popular dessert made with almonds, honey, and citrus zest. Its delightful blend of flavors reflects the town's culinary heritage. Recommended place to try: Caffe Bar Shooko.
Brudet is a rich fish stew cooked with tomatoes, onions, and garlic, seasoned with local herbs. It showcases the fresh catch of the day and is often served with polenta or crusty bread. Recommended place to try: Restaurant Jeny.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Makarska better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a vibrant array of locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as a selection of cheeses, olives, and dried fruits. Visitors can savor the flavors of the region and purchase fresh produce to enjoy.
Located along the waterfront, these stalls offer an assortment of freshly caught seafood, including grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp. Visitors can indulge in the authentic flavors of the Adriatic while taking in scenic views of the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Makarska, a friendly handshake is common. It's polite to greet people with a smile and maintain eye contact. Saying 'Dobar dan' (Good day) is appreciated.
If invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or wine. During meals, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows), and wait for the host to start eating before you begin.
While the dress code in Makarska is generally casual, it's advisable to dress neatly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending more formal events. Respect local customs by dressing modestly in such settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Makarska with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Makarska
Ensure a smooth experience
In Makarska, it is customary to tip service staff in restaurants, cafes, and bars. A tip of around 10% to 15% of the total bill is considered appropriate, especially if the service is satisfactory. Tips can be left in cash or added onto the bill when paying with a card. However, it is not mandatory, and rounding up the bill is also a common practice.
Payment methods in Makarska are diverse. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, including major brands like Visa and MasterCard. Cash is also widely accepted, and it is advisable to have some kuna on hand for smaller purchases or in places that do not accept cards. ATMs are readily available for currency withdrawal, and prices are often displayed in kuna.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Makarska.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Makarska. The weather starts warming up, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F). Flowers bloom, and the region is less crowded. Expect pleasant conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the coastline, along with local festivals.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Makarska. Visitors can enjoy warm to hot weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). The beaches are lively, and there are plenty of water sports and cultural events. While the atmosphere is vibrant, it can also be crowded, especially in July and August.
Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit. Early autumn features warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F) in September, making it ideal for beach activities. As the season progresses, the crowds thin out, and the scenery transforms with autumn colors. October can still be pleasant for hiking and sightseeing.
Winter (December to February) in Makarska is mild compared to many other regions. Temperatures range from about 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), and while it's too cold for swimming, the region is peaceful and less touristy. Visitors can enjoy local culture, holiday celebrations, and scenic winter landscapes, as well as explore nearby mountains for skiing.
Makarska at Night
Hiking in Makarska
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural park with diverse flora and fauna, offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Several trails surrounding Makarska city that cater to different skill levels, with scenic landscapes and coastal panoramas.
The highest peak of the Biokovo mountain range, accessible by hiking trails with rewarding vistas and a viewpoint.
A popular hiking destination that provides fantastic views of Makarska, the coastline, and nearby islands.
A less-traveled trail leading to the Blue Lake, surrounded by beautiful nature and opportunities for swimming.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Makarska through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Makarska by plane.
The closest major international airport to Makarska, located approximately 80 km to the northwest of the city.
Another significant international airport, located about 160 km southeast of Makarska.
An international airport situated approximately 150 km north of Makarska.
Located around 340 km northwest of Makarska, this airport serves international flights.
Located approximately 200 km northwest of Makarska, this airport also handles international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Makarska, representing the majority of the population.
A significant minority in the region, with many Bosniaks residing in Makarska.
Another minority group in the area, with a historical presence in the region.
Includes various other ethnicities and nationalities, such as Italians, Slovenes, and others.
The Soul of Makarska
Discover the essence of Makarska through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Makarska, with local clubs and communities engaging in both amateur and professional play.
Basketball has a strong following in Makarska, with local teams and recreational leagues offering opportunities for both young and adult players.
Due to its coastal location, water sports such as swimming, sailing, and kayaking are extremely popular among residents and tourists alike.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Makarska, with many scenic routes available for both casual and serious cyclists.
Running is enjoyed by many locals, with coastal paths and trails providing beautiful scenery for runners of all levels.
Tennis courts are available in Makarska, making it a popular choice for both leisure and competitive players.
Given the beautiful beaches, beach volleyball is a common sight and a favorite pastime among both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Makarska.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries in Makarska offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and flavorful pasta preparations. Additionally, specialty restaurants and cafes are known for creating innovative plant-based dishes highlighting local produce.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating options at various restaurants in Makarska. These establishments often provide gluten-free variations of traditional dishes, such as seafood, grilled meats, and risotto, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Makarska with these cultural adventures.
