Makarska
(Pearl of the Adriatic)

Makarska is a picturesque city on the central Dalmatian coast, beautifully positioned between the imposing massif of Mount Biokovo (1,762 m) and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. One of Croatia's most beloved summer destinations, Makarska enchants visitors with its lush pebble beaches, turquoise sea, a charming historic old town, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

The city's centerpiece is its stunning city beach stretching over 1.5 km, framed by fragrant pine forests and lapped by some of the clearest waters on the Adriatic. The historic Old Town features the baroque Church of St. Mark (18th century), a beautiful palm-lined promenade filled with cafes, restaurants and boutiques, and the Franciscan monastery overlooking the sea.
A true curiosity is the Malacological Museum – the only institution of its kind in this part of Europe – home to a remarkable collection of over 3,000 species of shells and snails from around the world.

Rising dramatically behind the city, Biokovo Nature Park offers extraordinary hiking trails through rocky limestone terrain and the thrilling Skywalk Biokovo – a glass-floored walkway at 1,228 m altitude with sweeping views over the entire 60 km Makarska Riviera, the islands of Brač and Hvar, and on clear days, the mountains of Italy across the sea.

Makarska is the perfect base for excursions throughout the region. Daily trips run to Split and the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace (60 km), the dramatic Cetina river canyon near Omiš for rafting, kayaking and zip-line adventure (50 km), and the stunning islands of Brač, Hvar and Korčula just a short ferry ride away. Other popular day trips include the Medjugorje sanctuary in Bosnia-Herzegovina (65 km) and the serene Baćina Lakes nature reserve (30 km).

With over 2,750 sunny hours per year and sea temperatures reaching 24°C in July and August, Makarska enjoys one of the best climates in the Mediterranean. The city comes alive in summer with an exciting programme of cultural events, open-air concerts, folklore festivals, seafood evenings, and a vibrant nightlife scene on the famous Riva promenade. Outside peak season, Makarska remains a wonderfully peaceful destination to explore at a leisurely pace.