Makarska, Croatia Travel Guide

Discover Makarska: A picturesque Croatian town where the stunning Adriatic coast meets the majestic Biokovo Mountain, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Nestled between the rugged Biokovo Mountain and the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, Makarska is a charming coastal town in Croatia that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Its picturesque setting makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Makarska's historic old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant squares, is perfect for exploring on foot. The town is home to the impressive St. Mark's Church and the Franciscan Monastery, which houses a fascinating collection of shells from around the world. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the lively waterfront promenade, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Biokovo Nature Park offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of the coastline and islands. The park is also home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for wildlife lovers. Makarska's beaches, with their soft pebbles and clear waters, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The town's main beach, Makarska Beach, is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Makarska also serves as a gateway to exploring the stunning Dalmatian islands. Regular boat trips depart from the town's harbor, offering day trips to islands such as Brač, Hvar, and Korčula. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply soaking up the sun, Makarska provides a memorable experience for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Makarska.

Visit the Biokovo Skywalk for a thrilling experience and panoramic views of the coast.
Explore the local markets for fresh produce, traditional crafts, and souvenirs.
Try the local seafood dishes at waterfront restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Rent a bike to explore the scenic coastal paths and hidden beaches.
Book island-hopping tours in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Explore Makarska: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Makarska

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Skywalk Biokovo

Experience breathtaking views and thrilling heights at Skywalk Biokovo, Croatia's stunning glass walkway above the Adriatic Sea.

4.9

Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes

Discover the serene beauty of Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Makarska, Croatia, a tranquil haven for pilgrims and tourists alike.

4.9

Osejava Forest Park

Discover the serene beauty of Osejava Forest Park in Makarska, where nature and breathtaking views await every traveler.

4.8

Planina Biokovo

Discover the stunning beauty and diverse wildlife of Planina Biokovo, a breathtaking mountain range in Croatia perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.9

Best landmarks in Makarska

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Vepric - Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes

Discover Vepric Shrine in Makarska: a peaceful sanctuary mirroring Lourdes, offering spiritual reflection amidst stunning natural beauty.

4.9

Osejava Forest Park

Escape to nature in Makarska's Osejava Forest Park: hike scenic trails, discover hidden beaches, and enjoy breathtaking Adriatic views.

4.8

Biokovo

Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures in Biokovo Nature Park, where the mountains meet the Adriatic Sea on the Makarska Riviera.

4.8

ZIP LINE Tučepi

Experience an unforgettable zipline adventure in Tučepi, soaring over canyons with breathtaking views of the Makarska Riviera. Fun for all ages!

4.8

Best restaurants in Makarska

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Pana Thai Street Food

Discover authentic Thai street food flavors in Makarska, Croatia – where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

5.0

Špina bar

Discover Špina Bar: A Cocktail Haven in Makarska Offering Exquisite Tapas and Wines Amidst Lively Ambiance.

4.8

Papar Grill & Boutique Mesnica

Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Papar Grill & Boutique Mesnica in Makarska—where flavor meets tradition in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.7

Restaurant Berlin

Discover exquisite flavors at Restaurant Berlin in Makarska - where local charm meets culinary excellence along the Adriatic coast.

4.7

Best bars in Makarska

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Špina bar

Discover the lively atmosphere of Špina Bar, a cocktail and tapas haven in the heart of Makarska, Croatia.

4.8

Caffe Bar Smile

Discover the charm of Caffe Bar Smile, a cozy bar in Makarska offering delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

4.8

Pivnica Pivac

Experience the charm of Pivnica Pivac, Makarska's premier brewpub offering local craft beers and delicious Croatian cuisine in a stunning marina setting.

4.7

Caffe Bar Royal

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local charm of Caffe Bar Royal, a must-visit bar in Makarska for tourists seeking relaxation and great drinks.

4.8

Best nightclubs in Makarska

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Nautica

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Makarska at Nautica, a coastal bar offering stunning views and a lively atmosphere.

4.6

Dali Bar

Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Dali Bar in Makarska, where rock music comes alive every night in a vibrant and welcoming setting.

5.0

Buba

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Makarska at Buba, a lively bar with refreshing cocktails and stunning coastal views, perfect for relaxation and socializing.

4.4

Makarano Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Makarano Bar in Makarska, where lively music and exquisite drinks create unforgettable evenings by the sea.

4.4

Best shops in Makarska

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

SPOT Mall Makarska

Explore SPOT Mall Makarska, where shopping meets leisure in a modern setting, perfect for tourists seeking retail and dining delights.

4.5

Müller

Explore Müller in Makarska for an unmatched shopping experience, featuring everything from health essentials to delightful home goods and toys.

4.7

Pevex | Makarska

Discover the ultimate electronics store in Makarska, offering cutting-edge technology and exceptional customer service for all your electronic needs.

4.4

Fumar Makarska

Explore the rich flavors of Croatian wines at Fumar Makarska, where every bottle tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.

4.9

Explore Makarska on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Makarska, mapped for you.

Makarska Essentials

Makarska is located on the Adriatic coast in Croatia, in the Dalmatia region. The nearest international airport is Split Airport, approximately 85 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus to Split city center and then a bus to Makarska. The bus journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for a more flexible travel option. There are also ferry connections from the island of Brač to Makarska.
Makarska is a relatively small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local buses can take you to nearby villages and beaches. Taxis are available but can be expensive, so it's advisable to agree on a fare before your journey. Renting a bike or scooter is a popular option for exploring the area. For longer trips, consider renting a car. Be aware that parking in the town center can be challenging during the peak tourist season.
The official currency in Croatia is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Makarska. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a 10% tip in restaurants is customary.
Makarska is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any tourist area, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving belongings unattended on the beach and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services, including police, medical services, and fire department. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Makarska. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the town for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress casually but respectfully. Beachwear is fine on the beaches, but not in town. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites; cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do buy your ticket before boarding and validate it. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake or a polite nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and wines. Don’t snap your fingers to get the waiter's attention; it's considered rude. Instead, make eye contact or raise your hand slightly.
To experience Makarska like a local, visit the local markets early in the morning for fresh produce and seafood. Engage with locals at cafes and konobas (traditional taverns) to learn more about the culture. Don’t miss the chance to hike up to the Biokovo Mountain for stunning views or take a stroll along the Makarska Riviera. Also, visit the Franciscan Monastery and its seashell museum for a unique cultural experience.

When is the best time to visit Makarska?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Makarska

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Makarska. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBok
  [Bohk]
- GoodbyeDoviđenja
  [Dov-ee-jen-ya]
- YesDa
  [Dah]
- NoNe
  [Neh]
- Please/You're welcomeMolim
  [Moh-leem]
- Thank youHvala
  [Hvah-lah]
- Excuse me/SorryOprostite
  [O-praw-stee-teh]
- How are you?Kako si?
  [Kah-koh see]
- Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
  [Doh-bro. Ah tee]
- Do you speak English?Govoriš li engleski?
  [Go-vo-ree-sh lee eng-les-kee]
- I don't understandNe razumijem
  [Neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMogu li vidjeti jelovnik, molim
  [Moh-goo lee vee-dyeh-tee yeh-lov-neek, moh-leem]
- I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
  [Neh yeh-dem meh-so]
- Cheers!Živjeli!
  [Zhee-ve-lee]
- I would like to pay, pleaseŽelim platiti, molim
  [Zheh-leem plah-tee-tee, moh-leem]
- Help!Pomoć!
  [Poh-mohtch]
- Go away!Idi dalje!
  [Ee-dee dah-lyeh]
- Call the Police!Pozovi policiju!
  [Poh-zoh-vee poh-lee-tsee-yoo]
- Call a doctor!Pozovi doktora!
  [Poh-zoh-vee dohk-toh-rah]
- I'm lostIzgubio sam se
  [Iz-goo-byoh sahm seh]
- I'm illBolestan sam
  [Boh-leh-stahn sahm]
- I'd like to buy...Želim kupiti...
  [Zheh-leem koo-pee-tee]
- I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [Sah-moh gleh-dam]
- How much is it?Koliko košta?
  [Koh-lee-koh kohs-tah]
- That's too expensiveTo je previše skupo
  [Toh yeh preh-vee-sheh skoo-poh]
- Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cijenu?
  [Moh-zheh-teh lee spoo-stee-tee tsee-yeh-noo]
- What time is it?Koliko je sati?
  [Koh-lee-koh yeh sah-tee]
- It's one o'clockJedan je sat
  [Yeh-dahn yeh saht]
- Half past (10)Polovina (10)
  [Poh-lo-vee-nah (des-et)]
- MorningJutro
  [Yoo-troh]
- AfternoonPopodne
  [Poh-pohd-neh]
- EveningVečer
  [Veh-chehr]
- YesterdayJučer
  [Yoo-chehr]
- TodayDanas
  [Dah-nahs]
- TomorrowSutra
  [Soo-trah]
- 1Jedan
  [Yeh-dahn]
- 2Dva
  [Dvah]
- 3Tri
  [Tree]
- 4Četiri
  [Cheh-tee-ree]
- 5Pet
  [Peh-t]
- 6Šest
  [Shehst]
- 7Sedam
  [Seh-dahm]
- 8Osam
  [Oh-sahm]
- 9Devet
  [Deh-vet]
- 10Deset
  [Deh-set]
- Where's a/the...?Gdje je...?
  [Gdyeh yeh]
- What's the address?Koja je adresa?
  [Koh-yah yeh ah-dreh-sah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na karti)?
  [Moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-kah-zahtee (nah kahr-tee)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kada je sljedeći (autobus)?
  [Kah-dah yeh sleh-dey-chee (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Jednu kartu (do ....)
  [Yehd-noo kahr-too (doh)]

History of Makarska

Makarska's history traces back to ancient times when it was first settled by the Illyrians. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited as early as 2000 BC. The Illyrians established a thriving community known for its strategic location and fertile land.
In the 2nd century BC, the Romans conquered the region, integrating Makarska into the Roman province of Dalmatia. The town, known as Muccurum, became an important Roman military and trading post. Ruins of Roman villas and artifacts, like coins and pottery, have been uncovered, showcasing the town's significance during this era.
During the early medieval period, Makarska was frequently targeted by Neretvan pirates who controlled the Adriatic Sea. The town's strategic position made it a focal point for maritime conflicts. The construction of fortifications and defensive structures during this period aimed to protect against pirate raids.
In the 15th century, Makarska came under the rule of the Venetian Republic. The Venetians fortified the town to defend against the expanding Ottoman Empire. Despite these efforts, the Ottomans managed to conquer Makarska in the early 16th century, bringing significant cultural and architectural changes.
After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Makarska became part of the Habsburg Monarchy in the 18th century. Under Austro-Hungarian rule, the town experienced economic growth, particularly in trade and agriculture. The construction of new infrastructure, including roads and ports, facilitated this prosperity.
During World War II, Makarska was occupied by Axis forces. The town became a center of partisan resistance against the occupiers. The local population played a crucial role in supporting the Yugoslav Partisans, who fought for liberation. Monumental sites and memorials in Makarska honor the bravery and sacrifices made during this tumultuous period.
In the post-war period, Makarska transformed into a popular tourist destination. The town's stunning natural beauty, including its coastline and Biokovo Mountain, attracted visitors from around the world. The development of hotels, resorts, and recreational facilities turned Makarska into a vibrant hub for tourism, which continues to thrive today.