After savoring the splendid things to do in Makarska, from lounging on its pebble beaches to strolling along the picturesque waterfront, day trips from Makarska invite you to explore more of Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast. These excursions offer a deeper look into the region’s natural beauty, historic towns, and the Biokovo Mountain’s panoramic views, providing a well-rounded experience beyond the city’s boundaries.
Venturing from Makarska, you’re introduced to the vast array of things to do in Croatia, including the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, the serene lakes of Plitvice National Park, and the charming streets of Split. Each journey showcases the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Croatia, inviting you to immerse yourself in its unique heritage and breathtaking scenery.
Selecting where to stay in Makarska can greatly enhance your holiday, combining the convenience of being close to the city’s attractions with the ease of setting off on your day trips. A prime location offers the best of both worlds: quick access to Makarska’s vibrant life and a hassle-free gateway to discovering the wonders of the Croatian coast.
Discover Best Day Trips from Makarska, Croatia
1. Biokovo Nature Park, Croatia
Biokovo Nature Park, known for its majestic mountain range that towers over the Makarska Riviera, offers stunning views and hiking trails. The Skywalk, a glass viewing platform, is a highlight for its breathtaking panoramic views.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: About 30-40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Majestic mountain range, Skywalk Biokovo, hiking trails, panoramic views
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: €8
- Skywalk Biokovo: Free with park entrance
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Biokovo Skywalk, Sveti Jure Peak
Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bring layers as the temperature can be cooler at higher elevations.
2. Split, Croatia
Split, a coastal city known for its ancient history and vibrant atmosphere, is home to the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace. The city’s lively Riva promenade and Marjan Forest Park are also must-visits.
Distance: Approximately 65 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Diocletian’s Palace, Riva promenade, Marjan Forest Park
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Diocletian’s Palace Substructures: €6
- Marjan Hill: Free
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Split Harbor, Marjan Hill
Travel Tip: Explore the narrow streets of the old town and try local seafood in one of the many restaurants in the city center.
3. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, famed for its stunning Old Town and ancient city walls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, and is a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, including “Game of Thrones.”
Distance: Approximately 160 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Old Town, ancient city walls, UNESCO World Heritage Site
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- City Walls: €30
- Rector’s Palace: €13
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: City Walls, Dubrovnik Cable Car Viewpoint
Travel Tip: Take a walk along the city walls in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
4. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar, in neighboring Bosnia and Herzegovina, is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and historic Ottoman-style architecture. The city provides a unique cultural experience with its East-meets-West atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 140 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Stari Most (Old Bridge), Ottoman-style architecture, Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Old Bridge Museum: €5
- Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque: €3
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Neretva River, Old Bridge Viewpoint
Travel Tip: Visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for stunning views of the bridge and city.
5. Hvar Island, Croatia
Hvar Island, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic towns, and lavender fields, is a luxurious escape. Hvar Town, Stari Grad, and the Pakleni Islands are some of its highlights.
Distance: Approximately 30 km to Drvenik + ferry
Travel Time: About 20 minutes by car to Drvenik + 35-minute ferry ride
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com) + Ferry
Main Attractions: Hvar Town, lavender fields, Pakleni Islands
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Ferry: €5-€10 (one way)
- Franciscan Monastery: €4
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Hvar Old Town, Pakleni Islands
Travel Tip: Explore the inland villages of Hvar for a more authentic experience of the island’s culture and history.
6. Krka National Park, Croatia
Krka National Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls, including Skradinski Buk, and tranquil walking trails. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, explore historic mills, and swim in designated areas.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Skradinski Buk waterfalls, walking trails, boat tours
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: €10-€20 (seasonal variation)
- Boat Tours: €10
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Skradinski Buk, Roški Slap
Travel Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid the crowds, and don’t forget your swimwear for a dip in the refreshing waters.
7. Korčula Island, Croatia
Korčula Island, known as the birthplace of Marco Polo, is famous for its dense forests, vineyards, and medieval towns. The old town of Korčula is a charming, walled city with narrow streets and historic architecture.
Distance: Approximately 90 km to Ploče + ferry
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car to Ploče + 2.5-hour ferry ride
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com) + Ferry
Main Attractions: Korčula Old Town, vineyards, Marco Polo’s birthplace
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Ferry: €10-€15 (one way)
- Marco Polo Museum: €5
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Korčula Old Town, Lumbarda Vineyards
Travel Tip: Taste the local white wine, Pošip, and explore the smaller villages on the island for a more authentic experience.
8. Trogir, Croatia
Trogir, a historic town and harbor on the Adriatic coast, is known for its preserved medieval architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town’s maze of narrow streets, the Kamerlengo Fortress, and the Cathedral of St. Lawrence are highlights.
Distance: Approximately 85 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Medieval architecture, Kamerlengo Fortress, Cathedral of St. Lawrence
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kamerlengo Fortress: €6
- Cathedral of St. Lawrence: €3
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Trogir Harbor, Old Town Streets
Travel Tip: Visit the local market for fresh produce and try the traditional Dalmatian dish, Pašticada, in one of the town’s restaurants.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Makarska, Croatia
What are the best day trips from Makarska?
Top day trips from Makarska include the Biokovo Nature Park, a visit to the historic city of Split, exploring the beautiful island of Brač, and the stunning Krka National Park.
Is a visit to Biokovo Nature Park worth it?
Absolutely! Biokovo Nature Park offers breathtaking mountain views, hiking trails, and the unique Skywalk Biokovo, a glass walkway providing panoramic views of the coast.
Can I do a boat trip to Hvar Island from Makarska?
Yes, Hvar Island is a popular boat trip destination from Makarska, known for its beautiful beaches, lavender fields, and historic architecture.
Are there guided tours to Krka National Park?
Yes, there are many guided tours to Krka National Park from Makarska. The park is famous for its stunning waterfalls and lush green landscapes.
What cultural experiences can I find near Makarska?
Near Makarska, you can explore the ancient town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or visit the historic city of Dubrovnik for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
Is a wine tasting tour possible in the Makarska region?
Yes, the Makarska region is known for its excellent wines. Many local wineries offer tours and tastings where you can sample indigenous Croatian wine varieties.
Can I explore the Cetina River Canyon from Makarska?
Definitely! The Cetina River Canyon, known for its dramatic scenery and opportunities for adventure sports like rafting and canyoning, is an exciting day trip from Makarska.
Are there relaxing beach destinations near Makarska?
Absolutely! Apart from the beautiful beaches in Makarska itself, you can visit the picturesque Brela Beach or the pebbled beaches of Baška Voda, both within a short drive.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/makarska-l1331?activity_type=dayTrip
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