The town of Makarska is settled around a natural harbour protected by a picturesque penninsula of St. Peter. The cape Osejava and mountain Biokovo, protects it from the harsh continental climate and are responsible for its rich Mediterranean vegetation, mild winters and long summers.
In the past, the town grew into an important trading port, especially during the Ottoman and Venetian occupation. Nowadays, during tourist season, the harbour is filled with luxury yachts and cruisers.
Makarska from above, Croatia
Today, Makarska is best known for its 2 kilometre long pebble beach that stretches along the entire city. The beach is surrounded by luxury hotels, tourist facilities and gastronomical haven.
History tour
If you are a true fan of history, visit the Franciscan monastery, which recently celebrated its 500th anniversary. The monastery rich offer includes a world-renowned shell collection with over 3000 samples of shells, picture gallery and library.
Makarska‘s most famous church – the church of St. Marko, is located on the main square, along with the Gojak gallery, musical school and public library. The city museum is located on the waterfront, along with the church of St. Filip.
Excursions
Since Makarska is settled at the crossroads of road and sea route, during tourist season there are regular excursions heading for the islands like Brac, Korcula and Hvar, as well as larger cities like Dubrovnik and Split.
For all you adrenaline junkies who want to have an active holiday, I recommend rafting. It is one of the most exciting ways to experience river courses and their picturesque surroundings. The river adventure starts on the banks of beautiful Cetina river in the Biokovo Mountain region.
Cetina river canyon
Excursion follows a white-water descent to the Radman’s Mills, where you can enjoy swimming in the clear mountain river or stroll through the woods. Check out rafting offer when you get to the town center and pick the one that fits you the most. Usually, guide, instructor, raft and equipment are included.
Entertainment
During summer season, Makarska is rich in cultural events and entertainment. Events include famous fishing festivals in traditional Dalmatian style, which are held every other Friday. It is suited for anyone who just wants to enjoy good food and good drink in a friendly environment.
The program ends late in the evening. Beside that there are various concerts, summer carnival, folk festivals and of course a rich offer of bars and discotheques.
Gastronomy
Makarska offers a great choice of traditional gastronomy, home-produced food and drinks served in restaurants and taverns. However, it is best known for desserts. The most famous of all is ‘Makarana’ cake, made of almonds and Maraskino liquor (made from famous Dalmatian maraska cherry). Other famous dessert is Makarska ‘Rafioli’ – an original cake made from pastry and filled with walnut cream.
Regarding main course you have got to try famous Dalmatian ‘Pasticada’, a meal made from beef meat filled with bacon and garlic, all prepared in red wine. For appetizer you can order prosciutto (Dalmatian smoked ham) and cheese, served with local olives. This can also be ordered as a light dinner, along with freshly baked bread. For drink, aside both of this dishes, order red wine. Make sure it is local.
Also, be sure to ask the waiter what are the best fish and sea food delicacies they offer.
How to get there?
Although it is a small town, Makarska has a good transport links with major Croatian cities. You can get there from Zagreb by car, bus or train, or you can take a flight directly to Split, which is located about 70 kilometres from the city, and then use airport transportation directly to Makarska and your accommodation.
