Croatia
Two main airports serve as gateways to Makarska and the Dalmatian coast.
Many European budget and flag carriers operate flights to Split and Dubrovnik.
Take an airport bus to the city center, then an intercity bus to Makarska. Total travel time is approximately 2-3 hours from Split or 3-4 hours from Dubrovnik.
Available directly from airports. Costs range from €80-€120 from Split (1-1.5 hrs) and €150-€250 from Dubrovnik (2.5-3 hrs).
Pre-booked private transfers are available (€70-€100 from Split, €120-€200 from Dubrovnik). Rental cars are at airports for travel flexibility.
Traveling south towards Dubrovnik means passing through the Neum corridor in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Valid passports are needed for all travelers, and car rentals need green card insurance.
No direct train connections exist to Makarska. The nearest station is Split, but buses are generally faster and more convenient for regional travel throughout Dalmatia.
Makarska Bus Station has frequent connections to Split (1.5-2 hrs), Dubrovnik (2.5-3 hrs, with border check), and daily services to Zadar, Šibenik, and Zagreb. Purchase tickets at the station or online.
Croatia features an excellent network of highways and generally well-maintained local roads.
Finding parking can be challenging and expensive in Makarska center, especially during peak season.
Adhering to local traffic regulations for safe driving.
Makarska is a coastal town, but its sea connections are mainly local.
Numerous smaller boats offer daily excursions from Makarska port.
For international ferry arrivals (e.g., from Italy to Split), immigration procedures are similar to airport arrivals, involving passport control.
River transportation is not applicable for Makarska, as it is a coastal town on the Adriatic. The Cetina River near Omiš offers rafting, not transport.
Makarska is not a major cruise port. Larger cruise ships dock in Split or Dubrovnik, from where passengers may take excursions.
There are no specific exit fees or taxes for tourists departing from Croatia. Your ticket price includes all taxes.
Airports and bus stations offer various amenities for departing travelers.
Allow sufficient time for check-in procedures, especially during busy periods.
Factor in time for security screening, which can have varying queue lengths.
Be aware of boarding times for both flights and buses to avoid missing your transport.
Confirm your flight or bus schedule the day before departure.
