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Makarska

Makarska, Splitsko-Dalmatinska Zupanija, Croatia

Nestled along the picturesque Adriatic coast of Croatia lies the charming town of Makarska, located in the Splitsko-Dalmatinska Županija region. Makarska is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, ric…

#Mediterranean#Beach#Tourism#Mountainous#Croatia

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Makarska.

Top Hotels in Makarska

Top Flights to Makarska

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Makarska.

Tours

Makarska Main Square Tour

Discover historical landmarks and architecture around the Makarska main square.

Historic Town of Makarska Walking Tour

Guided tours through charming streets filled with history and local culture.

Outdoor

Biokovo Nature Park Hiking

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Biokovo Mountain with guided hiking tours.

Makarska Riviera Beach Day

Spend a relaxing day enjoying the beautiful beaches along the Makarska Riviera.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Makarska.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

Information not available.

Languages

Croatian, Croatian

Average weather

Makarska

Jan

11°4°

Feb

12°5°

Mar

14°7°

Apr

17°10°

May

22°14°

Jun

26°18°

Jul

30°21°

Aug

30°21°

Sep

26°18°

Oct

21°14°

Nov

16°10°

Dec

12°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Makarska.

What people love

Makarska, located in the Splitsko-Dalmatinska Županija region of Croatia, offers a variety of attractions and experiences that make it an appealing travel destination. Some of the pros of traveling to Makarska include:

Stunning Beaches: Makarska boasts beautiful pebble beaches along the Adriatic Sea, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings make it a relaxing and scenic beach destination.
Biokovo Mountain: Makarska is situated at the foot of the impressive Biokovo Mountain, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring nature. The Biokovo Nature Park provides panoramic views of the coastline and islands, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Rich History and Culture: Makarska has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with historic sites such as the Franciscan Monastery and the St. Mark's Cathedral. Visitors can explore the charming old town with its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and local markets.
Mediterranean Cuisine: Makarska is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, olive oil, local wines, and traditional Dalmatian dishes. Visitors can enjoy dining at waterfront restaurants, cafes, and taverns serving authentic Croatian cuisine.
Day Trips and Excursions: Makarska serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby islands such as Brač and Hvar, as well as other coastal towns along the Adriatic coast. Boat tours, water taxis, and ferry services are available for day trips to explore the surrounding area.

Overall, traveling to Makarska offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and culinary delights that make it a desirable destination for travelers seeking a Mediterranean getaway.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Makarska, Croatia, may include:

Crowded tourist areas: Makarska is a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak summer months. This could lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, making it less enjoyable for those seeking a more peaceful and secluded vacation.
High prices: Due to its popularity among tourists, prices for accommodation, food, and activities in Makarska may be higher compared to other destinations in Croatia. Travelers on a budget might find it challenging to find affordable options.
Limited public transportation: While Makarska is well-connected by bus and ferry to other towns and cities in Croatia, the public transportation system within the town itself may be limited. Renting a car could be necessary to explore the surrounding areas.
Language barrier: English is widely spoken in tourist areas of Makarska, but travelers who venture off the beaten path may encounter language barriers as Croatian is the main language spoken in the region.
Seasonal weather variations: Makarska experiences hot summers and mild winters, but weather conditions can be unpredictable, especially during the shoulder seasons. Travelers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and pack accordingly.

It's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and these cons should be considered alongside the many attractions and positive aspects of visiting Makarska.

Makarska, located in the Split-Dalmatia County of Croatia, is a picturesque town nestled between the Biokovo mountain range and the Adriatic Sea. Its rich history dates back to ancient times and has been shaped by various cultures and rulers.

Ancient and Medieval History

Illyrian and Roman Periods: The region around Makarska was initially inhabited by the Illyrians, an ancient group of tribes. The Roman Empire later expanded into this area, and evidence of Roman influence is seen in archaeological sites and ruins.
Early Middle Ages: After the fall of the Roman Empire, the area came under the influence of the Byzantine Empire. During the 7th century, Slavic tribes settled in the region, and the area became part of the medieval Croatian state.
Venetian and Ottoman Influence: From the 15th century onwards, Makarska was caught in the power struggles between the Venetian Republic and the Ottoman Empire. The town frequently changed hands between the two powers. It eventually became part of the Venetian Republic in the late 17th century.

Modern History

Austrian and French Rule: Following the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, Makarska came under Austrian rule. It was briefly occupied by French forces during the Napoleonic Wars but reverted to Austrian control until the end of World War I.
Yugoslav Period: After World War I, Makarska became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later known as Yugoslavia. During World War II, the region was occupied by Axis forces, and Makarska was liberated in 1944.
Post-Yugoslavia: With the breakup of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, Makarska became part of the newly independent Republic of Croatia. Since then, it has developed as a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural scene.

Significant Landmarks

St. Mark's Cathedral: Located in the main square, this Baroque-style cathedral is a key landmark and a testament to Makarska's historical architecture.
Franciscan Monastery: Founded in the 16th century, the monastery is known for its library and a collection of sea shells, one of the largest collections in the world.
Biokovo Mountain: The Biokovo Nature Park is a prominent feature of the Makarska landscape. It offers hiking trails and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Kačić Square: The central square in Makarska, named after the famous Croatian poet Andrija Kačić Miošić, is a cultural and social hub of the town.

Historical Figures

Andrija Kačić Miošić: An 18th-century Franciscan friar and poet, Kačić Miošić is celebrated for his literary contributions to Croatian culture. His works focused on the history and folklore of Dalmatia.

Makarska's history reflects a blend of cultural influences, from ancient Illyrian roots to modern Croatian development, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and travelers alike.