Makarska: A Seaside Town Blending Tradition, Adventure, and Nightlife

Makarska, a harmonious blend of a cosmopolitan seaside town and a family-friendly summer resort, offers a bit of everything. With its population just shy of 12,000, this town is a perfect holiday destination for beach lovers, nightlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike, thanks to its proximity to Mount Biokovo.

Conveniently located 38 miles (61 km) from Šibenik and only 17 miles (27 km) from Split, Makarska is easily accessible and a common stop on the route between Split and Dubrovnik. The town is well-connected by ferry and catamaran services to Brac, and offers numerous day trip excursions to nearby islands and Split.

Reaching Makarska with Ease

The nearest airport to Makarska is Split Airport. From there, a bus journey to downtown Split Bus Station, followed by a bus ride to Makarska, takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. During summer, a Kapetan Luka catamaran service connects Makarska with Split, Bol on the island of Brac, Dubrovnik, Mljet, and Korcula, offering a scenic and convenient travel option.

Dive into Makarska’s Rich History

Makarska’s roots trace back to an Illyrian settlement, later becoming a Roman area in the early centuries AD. By the 7th century, Slavic settlers had established small communities along this coastal stretch. The town’s strategic importance as an Adriatic port was recognized by both the Venetians and the Turks, who left their mark on its development and architecture. Following the fall of the Venetian Empire in 1797, Makarska experienced growth under French and later Austrian rule, with the latter period marked by a process of Italianization.

The 20th century saw the emergence of Makarska as a tourist destination, with significant development in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, post-independence and post-war, Makarska stands as a popular and vibrant tourist hub.

Exploring Makarska’s Cultural and Natural Beauty

Key historical sites in Makarska include the Franciscan monastery, founded in 1614, which hosts a unique Malacological museum with an extensive collection of snails, shells, and mussels. St. Mark’s Church, built in 1776, is another notable landmark. For beach enthusiasts, Makarska offers a variety of picturesque beaches, detailed on the Makarska Beaches website.

Culinary and Nightlife Delights in Makarska

Dining in Makarska ranges from family-friendly eateries like Hrpina to sophisticated options like Arta Larga by Gastro Diva. For quick bites, Street Food La Strada is ideal, while Spina Bar and Buba Beach Bar offer excellent choices for drinks and light dining. For clubbing, venues like Makarana and the unique cave-based Deep club are must-visits.

Fun Fact About Makarska

Did you know that Makarska is renowned for its spectacular Biokovo Skywalk, a glass viewing platform located on the Biokovo Mountain? This skywalk provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding area, making it a thrilling attraction for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.