Makarska is a picturesque coastal town located in the heart of the Makarska Riviera in Croatia. Situated between the Biokovo Mountain Range…
Best for you if…
Makarska is a strong pick for beach & hiking — plan about 5-7 days, with sights close enough to walk between. Peak season: July-August.
Deep guide guide · about 5 min to read · depth score 83/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Compact density — Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together. (≈12.1 km span)
High season: July-August
Best months for lower-cost travel: April · May · September · October
15-25°C
15-25°C
25-35°C
5-15°C
If you are planning a trip to Croatia, Makarska is a beautiful coastal town that you should definitely consider visiting. Located on the Adriatic Sea, Makarska offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a charming old town with a rich history. Here are some ways to reach Makarska:
The nearest international airport to Makarska is Split Airport, also known as Resnik Airport. It is located approximately 90 kilometers away from Makarska. From the airport, you can either hire a taxi or take a shuttle bus to reach Makarska. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic.
If you prefer to travel by road, you can reach Makarska by car or bus. The town is well-connected to major cities in Croatia and neighboring countries. If you are driving from Split, take the A1/E65 highway towards Dubrovnik and then follow the signs to Makarska. The drive along the picturesque coastal road offers breathtaking views. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Split, Dubrovnik, or other nearby cities. The bus journey is comfortable and convenient, with regular departures throughout the day.
If you are arriving from one of the nearby islands, such as Hvar or Brac, you can take a ferry to reach Makarska. The town has a ferry port that connects it to several islands and coastal towns. The ferry ride allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Adriatic Sea and is a unique way to reach Makarska.
Unfortunately, Makarska does not have a train station. The nearest train station is in Split, from where you can take a bus or taxi to reach Makarska. The bus journey from Split to Makarska is relatively short and offers stunning views of the coastline.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, reaching Makarska is relatively easy and well worth the effort. Once you arrive, you can explore the town's beautiful beaches, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and visit nearby attractions such as Biokovo Nature Park. Makarska is a hidden gem on the Croatian coast that promises a memorable vacation.
Makarska is a picturesque coastal town located in the heart of the Makarska Riviera in Croatia. Situated between the Biokovo Mountain Range and the azure Adriatic Sea, this enchanting destination attracts tourists from all over the world. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history, Makarska offers a truly unforgettable experience.
One of the main highlights of Makarska is its magnificent beaches. The town boasts a long stretch of coastline, adorned with pebble beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can bask in the sun, take refreshing dips in the sea, or enjoy various water activities such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and sailing. The beaches also offer beach bars and restaurants where visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Adriatic.
In addition to its natural wonders, Makarska is also known for its charming old town. The historic center is a maze of narrow streets lined with traditional stone houses, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. The main square, Kačić Square, is the vibrant heart of the town, bustling with locals and tourists alike. Here, visitors can admire the beautiful St. Mark's Church and the statue of the famous poet Andrija Kačić Miošić, after whom the square is named.
For those interested in history and culture, Makarska offers several fascinating landmarks. The Franciscan Monastery, located on a hill overlooking the town, houses a rich collection of artifacts and a renowned Malacological Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of seashells and marine life. The historic Malacological Institute, founded in 1963, is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in the world.
Overall, Makarska is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're looking for relaxation on the beach, exploration of historical sites, or immersion in the local culture, Makarska has something to offer for everyone.
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
20 places mapped for this destination
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
~0.7 km · 4 places
~0.9 km · 2 places
~1.8 km · 4 places
~1 km · 5 places
~2.1 km · 5 places
~0.7 km · 5 places
~2.1 km · 2 places
~7 km · 7 places
~2.6 km · 7 places
~5.8 km · 5 places
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
~0.7 km path
~12.2 km path
~0.8 km path
~0.3 km path
~7.4 km path
Listings update over time — confirm availability before you book.
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
Most travelers spend about 5-7 days in Makarska, Croatia.
High season is typically July-August.
Travelers often find better value in April, May, September, October.
Makarska suits Beach, Hiking, Historical Sightseeing, Water Sports.
Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together.
Visit the Biokovo Mountain for stunning views
Add Makarska and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.
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