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Nearby Destinations

Nearby Destinations

Croatia

Split - Historical Gem

Split, approximately 1.5-2 hours by bus, a city easily accessible from Makarska. It is a fantastic destination for a full day trip.

Diocletian's Palace, an UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living Roman ruin. Explore the lively Riva promenade, enjoy the atmosphere, and climb Marjan Hill for breathtaking city views.

Visiting Split

  • Frequent public buses connect Makarska directly to Split.
  • Visit independently for flexible exploration.
  • Organized tours combine Split with Trogir, simplifying planning.
  • Dedicate a full day to discover Split thoroughly.

Day Trip Highlights

Discover destinations and experiences around Makarska, from historical cities to adventure hubs.

Dubrovnik Grandeur

Dubrovnik, approximately 2.5-3 hours by bus, including border crossing. Its UNESCO Old City holds impressive city walls and historical buildings.

Planning Your Visit

  • Bus route passes through Neum corridor; prepare for passport checks.
  • Organized tours handle border crossing more seamlessly.
  • A full day is needed; start early to maximize your time.

Omiš Adventure Town

Omiš, approximately 40-50 minutes by bus, a historical pirate town. Explore its fortresses or seek adventure.

Activities & Access

  • Explore Mirabella and Starigrad fortresses.
  • Cetina River canyon for rafting and ziplining.
  • Allow half to a full day, depending on planned activities.

Beyond Makarska: famous Towns

Trogir - UNESCO Old Town

  • UNESCO-listed Old Town, similar to miniature Dubrovnik.
  • Stunning Cathedral of St. Lawrence.
  • Explore Kamerlengo Fortress.
  • Reached by bus via Split.

Mostar - Bosnian Gem

  • UNESCO-listed Old Bridge (Stari Most).
  • Ottoman-era architecture and bustling bazaar.
  • Requires valid passport and adherence to Bosnia and Herzegovina visa rules.
  • Organized tours can simplify border crossing.

Distance Overview

  • Brač (Sumartin Ferry)1 hour
  • Hvar (via Drvenik Ferry)30 mins drive + ferry
  • Korčula (full day trip)Longer travel
  • Vis (full day trip)Longer travel
  • Makarska to Split1.5-2 hours
  • Makarska to Dubrovnik2.5-3 hours
  • Makarska to Omiš40-50 minutes
  • Makarska to Imotski1 hour

Booking Day Trips

Find and book your next adventure confidently. Explore a wide array of day trips and excursions through GetYourGuide Day Trips to make your travels memorable.

Natural Escapes

Discover the stunning natural beauty surrounding Makarska, from mountain parks to island getaways.

Biokovo Nature Park

Immediately behind Makarska, with Skywalk, Sveti Jure peak, hiking trails, and Kotišina Botanical Garden.

Krka National Park

Approximately 2 hours by car. Famous for waterfalls like Skradinski Buk and Roški Slap, walking trails, and boat trips.

Islands: Brač & Hvar

Brač has Zlatni Rat beach. Hvar has Hvar Town, lavender fields, and Pakleni Islands.

Biokovo Accessibility

Reaching Biokovo offers breathtaking views and outdoor exploration.

Getting There

  • Drive your own car for flexibility.
  • Minibus tours from Makarska provide a convenient option.
  • Allow half to a full day for your visit, depending on planned activities.

Krka Park Access

Travel Methods

  • Organized tours from Makarska offer direct transport.
  • Driving yourself enables a personalized schedule.
  • Public transport means bus to Šibenik or Skradin, then local connections.

Island Transport Details

Brač (Sumartin Ferry)Car ferry from Makarska
Hvar (Organized Trips)Many organized boat trips
Hvar (Drvenik Ferry)Ferry from Drvenik
Hvar (Split Catamaran)Catamaran from Split
Time for BračA full day
Time for HvarA full day

Environmental Stewardship

  • Keep to marked trails in natural parks to safeguard ecosystems.
  • Do not disturb wildlife; observe from a distance.
  • Avoid picking plants to preserve biodiversity.
  • Support marine conservation initiatives by keeping beaches clean.
  • Reduce plastic consumption; use a Reusable water bottle or Shopping bag.

Cultural Insights & Extended Journeys

Explore the region's cultural heritage and plan longer explorations.

Mostar - Historic Bridge City

Approximately 2-2.5 hours by car or bus to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Home to the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge (Stari Most).

Visiting Safely

  • Organized tours from Makarska make border crossing easier.
  • A valid passport and adherence to visa rules are useful.
  • A full day is needed to explore the city thoroughly.

Imotski - Lakes & Fortress

Approximately 1 hour by car. Known for the striking Red Lake and Blue Lake, natural sinkholes of incredible beauty.

Local Exploration

  • Best reached by car for independent travel.
  • Public bus connections are limited.
  • Visit Topana Fortress for historical interest.

Ancient Salona

Discover the ruins of Salona, an ancient Roman city near Split, offering a glimpse into past civilizations.

Historical Value

  • Explore the remains of the amphitheater and basilica.
  • Easily accessible as a short trip from Split.
  • A site of significant archaeological importance.

Pelješac Peninsula

A scenic peninsula south of Makarska, renowned for its wine production and fresh seafood.

Culinary Journey

  • Taste local wines at numerous vineyards.
  • Enjoy fresh oysters, especially in Ston.
  • Scenic drives with beautiful coastal views.

Multi-Day Extension Ideas

Extend your adventure beyond Makarska with these suggested multi-day itineraries.

Split & Central Dalmatia

After Makarska, head north to Split. Use Split as a base for day trips to Trogir, Salona, or nearby islands. Buses connect Makarska and Split.

Southern Dalmatia & Dubrovnik

Head south to Dubrovnik for 3-4 days of exploration. Take day trips to Lokrum Island, Cavtat, or the Pelješac peninsula. Direct buses available.

Island Hopping

Start from Makarska to explore Brač and Hvar. Continue to Korčula or Vis for further island exploration. Ferries and catamarans connect the islands.

Travel Flexibility

Renting a car for multi-day itineraries is ideal, providing the most flexibility to explore more remote areas and less-traveled routes.