Makarska Riviera – What to do in Makarska?
Makarska is quickly becoming one of the most popular luxury destinations in Croatia, boasting over 60 kilometers of stunning pebble beaches along the Makarska Riviera, and serving as a hotspot due to its proximity to Split, Dubrovnik, Mostar, Međugorje, and other iconic destinations; it’s also renowned for its unforgettable boat tours and the breathtaking Biokovo Skywalk experience.
Private Boat Tours: Tailored Just for You
Private tours offer a bespoke experience, letting you design your dream itinerary. Visit iconic destinations like Brač, Hvar’s Little Blue Cave, Korčula, Zečevo’s Blue Lagoon, or Biševo’s pristine shores. With a private boat, set your pace, choose your stops, and create lasting memories. Prices start from €320 for the boat (depending on the season and the boat chosen).
Additionally, you can hire a professional skipper from the company if needed. Note that fuel is not included because it depends of desired destination.
Group Tours: Full day, half day & 90 minutes tures
Prefer to travel with others? Group tours offer excellent value and camaraderie, with options to suit any schedule:
- Full-Day Group Tours: Explore multiple islands on a speedboat, combining sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation. Choose a boat (up to 6 or 12 people) and let us recommend the perfect route for your adventure. Prices from 120€ per person.
- Half-Day Group Tours: Ideal for time-conscious visitors, these condensed excursions often include highlights like Zečevo’s Blue Lagoon, Hvar’s Little Blue Cave, or the famed Golden Horn beach. Prices from 85€ per person.
- 90-Minute Sunset Group Tours: Sail from Makarska to Brač’s hidden Puntica Bay for a magical swim, then enjoy breathtaking sunset views on your return. Price is 35€ per person.
Whether private or shared, these tours offer structured, hassle-free experiences that reveal the best of Makarska and the Adriatic.
Biokovo Skywalk
Suspended 1,228 meters above sea level, the Biokovo Skywalk offers breathtaking views from a glass-bottom platform. This unforgettable adventure has various transportation options to suit all preferences and budgets.
For an intimate connection with Biokovo Nature Park, tuk-tuk tours provide an open-air ride and personalized service, making them a highly rated choice. Shuttle bus tours are a convenient and affordable option, offering guided experiences with multiple photo stops for travelers looking to capture every moment.
Private car tours offer flexibility and privacy, letting you tailor the trip to your pace. Adventure seekers will enjoy buggy tours, which combine excitement with stunning views, while the unique Unimog experience takes you through the highest road in the park.
Independent travelers can drive up the Biokovo Road, but its steep, narrow paths are best left to experienced drivers. Letting professionals handle the logistics often ensures a more enjoyable experience.
Prices range from €8 for self-driving to €300 for a private buggy tour for two.
Starting in Makarska, this 90-minute Sunset Speedboat Tour takes you on a breathtaking journey to a hidden bay on the island of Brač in just 20 minutes. Here, you’ll have around 40 minutes to swim in a very private bay with a swing on the beach. On the return trip, prepare to be captivated by the vibrant colors of the Adriatic sunset, a truly magical experience that blends tranquility and awe-inspiring views.
For just €35 per person, the Group Sunset Tour offers a social and affordable way to explore Makarska’s coastline. Perfect for those seeking a scenic and relaxing adventure, this tour delivers unforgettable moments without breaking the bank.
Private Sunset Tour, priced at €280 for up to 10 people, provides an exclusive and tailored experience. Choose your boat, customize the route, and enjoy the trip at your own pace. Ideal for families, friends, or couples, this tour offers privacy and a stop at Brač’s hidden bay for a refreshing swim, making it a unique memory to cherish.
A wine-tasting tour from Makarska offers a journey into Dalmatia’s rich winemaking heritage. The Grabovac Winery in Imotski is a standout destination. This family-run winery, with a tradition dating back to 1812, combines history, culture, and exceptional wines.
The tour includes a scenic drive from Makarska to Imotski, showcasing beautiful landscapes. At Grabovac Winery, enjoy guided tastings of local wines like Pošip and Plavac Mali, paired with regional delicacies such as cheese and prosciutto. Visitors also learn about traditional winemaking and the Grabovac family’s legacy in Dalmatian wine culture.
Group tours are available for around €60 per person, while private tours, starting at €150, offer a more tailored experience. Tours typically include transportation, tastings, and light refreshments; advance booking is recommended to secure availability.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or exploring Dalmatian flavors, Grabovac Winery promises a memorable experience blending history, culture, and fine wines.
A rafting adventure on the Cetina River is an exciting way to explore Croatia’s natural beauty. This 12-kilometer stretch features crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and dramatic canyons, offering a perfect blend of thrills and scenic views.
With Class II to III rapids, the river is ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters. Many tours also include cliff jumping, cave exploring, and swimming in its refreshing waters.
Standard tours range from €40 to €45 per person, covering equipment, a professional guide, and insurance. Children under 12 often pay around €27. For a more comprehensive experience, packages priced at €70 per person include added activities, picnic breaks, and transfers.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Check package details for inclusions like meals and transportation, and ask about group discounts for additional savings.
Rafting on the Cetina River combines adventure and Croatia’s stunning scenery for a memorable experience!
The Makarska Riviera is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a variety of dining experiences to suit every taste. Here’s a list of top restaurants, focusing on their specialties.
Seafood Specialties:
- Restaurant Riva (Makarska): Renowned for fresh Adriatic fish, shrimp risotto, and grilled calamari.
- Restaurant Freya (Tučepi): Modern Dalmatian seafood like sea bass fillet, prawn pasta, and octopus salad.
- Panorama (Makarska): Famous for mussels in wine sauce, seafood platters, and Adriatic squid.
- Tempera (Makarska): A trendy spot with tuna steak, seafood paella, and sushi-inspired dishes.
- Gastro Diva (Makarska): Fine dining with lobster pasta, fish carpaccio, and scallops.
- Bura (Makarska): Traditional flavors with grilled sardines, seafood risotto, and clams.
Meat and Mixed Cuisine Specialties:
- Konoba Ranč (Tučepi): Rustic charm with grilled steaks, lamb chops, and mixed platters.
- Bounty Restaurant (Makarska): Beachfront favorites like beef fillet and mixed meat dishes.
- Konoba Jeny (Tučepi): Michelin-recommended for veal under the bell and gourmet tasting menus.
- Konoba Kalalarga (Makarska): Local flavors with Peka, homemade sausages, and grilled meats.
- Konoba Decima (Makarska): Hearty dishes like roast lamb, veal under the bell, and meat platters.
Nightlife in Makarska and Beyond: A Guide to the Best Spots
Makarska boasts a vibrant nightlife, from cozy pregame bars to iconic seasonal clubs. Whether you stay local or venture to nearby Split or Mostar, there’s plenty to make your evenings memorable.
Pregame Bars in Makarska
Kick off your night at Nautica, a lively spot with great music and a wide drink menu, or enjoy the stunning views and cocktails at Providenca. Beer lovers can head to Rooster Pub (Pivnica), while Hops offers daily live music for a mix of entertainment and drinks. For a laid-back vibe, Bety Bar is a local favorite with affordable options.
Clubbing in Makarska
Makarska’s club scene shines during the summer. Deep Club, set in a seaside cave, is renowned for electronic music and a unique atmosphere (June 20–September 20). Makarana, a dance music hotspot, offers a high-energy experience (July 5–August 20).
Beyond Makarska
Split, an hour’s drive away, features top venues like Central Club with international DJs, Vanilla Club’s summer concerts, and the artsy Academia Club Ghetto. Just 90 minutes away, Mostar offers modern clubs like Golden Club and cozy spots like Beše Beše Bar.
Conclusion
Makarska provides the perfect mix of nightlife energy and charm, with easy access to Split and Mostar for even more adventure. Whatever your vibe, memorable nights await!
Discover the History of Makarska
Makarska, nestled along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast, offers more than idyllic beaches—it’s a town steeped in history and culture, shaped by civilizations over millennia.
Ancient Roots
The region around Makarska has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with Illyrian tribes as its earliest settlers. Later, the Greeks and Romans recognized its strategic importance, leaving remnants of their settlements.
Medieval and Venetian Influence
During the medieval era, Makarska thrived as a trading port. Under Venetian rule in the 15th century, the town experienced prosperity and architectural developments that still define its historic core.
Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Eras
Makarska later fell under Ottoman rule before transitioning to Austrian control in the 18th and 19th centuries. These diverse influences blended with local traditions, creating a unique cultural identity.
Modern Makarska
Today, Makarska charms visitors with its cobbled streets, St. Mark’s Cathedral, and vibrant harbor. Framed by the Biokovo Mountain and turquoise Adriatic waters, it’s a hub for history, culture, and natural beauty.
A Destination for Everyone
As the heart of the Makarska Riviera, it offers a perfect blend of heritage, relaxation, and modern attractions. Whether exploring its past or enjoying its lively promenade, Makarska captivates every traveler.
Come for the views, stay for the stories—Makarska is a timeless Adriatic gem.
Other popular things to do while in Makarska
Rent a Speedboat in Makarska
Renting a boat in Makarska offers the ultimate way to explore the stunning Dalmatian coast, giving you access to hidden bays, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
Choose between a private, 100% customized tour, where you set the pace and itinerary to explore Brač, Hvar, Korčula, Vis, or other gems, or join one of the popular group tours. Options include full-day excursions, half-day adventures, or a magical 90-minute sunset tour.
Whether you seek freedom, adventure, or relaxation, renting a boat in Makarska lets you create unforgettable memories on the breathtaking Adriatic Sea.
Krka Waterfalls
Visiting Krka Waterfalls from Makarska offers an unforgettable experience in one of Croatia’s most stunning national parks.
Famous for its cascading waterfalls and lush greenery, Krka National Park is a haven for nature lovers. Highlights include the spectacular Skradinski Buk, a series of tumbling waterfalls, and Roški Slap, known for its tranquility and charm.
From Makarska, it’s a scenic journey to this natural paradise, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters, explore historic mills, or take a serene boat ride along the Krka River. A perfect day trip for adventure and relaxation!
Day trip to Dubrovnik
A day trip to Dubrovnik from Makarska is the perfect way to explore Croatia’s most iconic city, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.”
Walk along the historic City Walls, visit landmarks like the Rector’s Palace and Stradun, and immerse yourself in the charm of Dubrovnik’s medieval Old Town. Marvel at its stunning architecture and scenic coastal views, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that captures the essence of Croatia’s history and culture.
From Makarska, it’s a picturesque journey to this vibrant city, offering a blend of history, beauty, and unforgettable memories.
Day trip to Split
A day trip to Split from Makarska offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal charm in Croatia’s second-largest city.
Explore the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stroll along the vibrant Riva promenade, and visit landmarks like the Cathedral of St. Domnius and Peristyle Square. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, bustling markets, and picturesque views of the Adriatic Sea.
Just an hour’s drive from Makarska, Split is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those looking to experience the energy of a thriving Mediterranean city.
Day trip to Mostar
A day trip to Mostar from Makarska offers a journey into the rich history and culture of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Explore the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stroll through the cobbled streets of the charming Old Town. Discover landmarks like the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque and enjoy traditional Bosnian cuisine at riverside cafes.
Just 90 minutes from Makarska, Mostar offers a unique blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean influences, making it a fascinating destination for history and culture lovers.