The Three Best Coastal Towns to Visit in Croatia
Even though Croatia ranks as one of the top tourist destinations in the world, this gorgeously diverse country remains humble. Croatia’s quaint coastal resorts continue to be affordable and accessible year-round. This selection is just a small taste of the beauty that Croatia has to offer. One of the best ways to explore them is to charter a yacht and sail the Adriatic.
For those who cannot decide between the lure of the sea and the mountains, Makarska is the place for you. With the Biokovo Mountains serving as a backdrop, this pretty resort town sits in the middle of a bay of the Adriatic Sea, dotted with beaches and fishing boats. This city of 13,000 habitants is filled with restaurants, bars, cafés, and shops, and boasts many cultural events during its Makarska Summer, such as traditional music and dance performances. The old town center is lined with cobblestone streets, where in the main square you can find a plethora of fruit and flower markets. I recommend stopping by the Franciscan monastery between 10am and 12pm, which features a lovely sea shell collection, and Saint Mark’s church, with its beautiful baroque silver altar. Finish the evening at one of the reasonable restaurants on Makarska’s harbor, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the waves roll in.
As one of the oldest cities in the Dalmatia area, Split is a historical gem known for being a center of Croatian culture. A literary and artistic hub, this city has a significant offering of galleries and museums to visit, notably the Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments, which is dedicated to preserving artifacts from the Middle Ages. Diocletian’s Palace in the heart of the city is a must-see; since 1979, this white limestone splendor has been a part of UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage. However, do not forget the sublime beaches and seafront of this fantastic city. I highly suggest trying a delicious homemade ice cream from Luka and sitting down to people-watch under the sun. Known for its jazzy wine bars and relaxed lounges, Split also has an animated night life that brings in voyagers from all over the world.
If you are traveling with a family, I recommend visiting the small fishing port of Rabac. This cozy town of just under 2,000 habitants offers villas or apartments to rent for large groups. If you prefer to be closer to nature, camping sites are also available for a reasonable price. During the summer months, concerts, magic shows, and comedians put on performances around town that are appropriate for all ages. If you are a fan of electronic music, the annual Rabac Music Festival is a sure thing. Relive the history of Rabac by taking an informative fishing tour, or visit one of the grottos hidden along the coast. The craggy seaside is perfect for hiking or bicycling, as well. A spot just recently in the tourist spotlight, Rabac is less crowded than other coastal towns, but just as delightful.
Of course, these three towns are just samplings of what you can experience along the Croatian coast. Each settlement offers a new experience, personalized for each of your interests. The diversity of this small country offers enough to keep you exploring forever.
