6 Names For Paradise
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Dalmatia - Split
The Jewel of an Empire
Authentic traces of great ancient cultures, stunning islands, a walk in the clouds, and a combination of the Mediterranean and the inland make Central Dalmatia the perfect place for your dream holiday.
The lakes of this area come in many wonderful colours, the beaches are golden, the finest white stone is harvested here, and the towns are considered to be the “centre of the world”.
Where to go?
The centre of the world, colourful lakes, and golden beaches
The centre of Dalmatia, or as its residents would call it, the “centre of the whole world”, is Split, the largest city in the Croatian part of the Adriatic coast. The old city centre, which is under the protection of UNESCO, is over 1700 years old and it was created when the Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build his palace there.
Start your tour with the most important landmark, Diocletian’s Palace, a perfect specimen of Roman architecture and one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in Europe. Visit the magnificent Diocletian’s Cellars, a filming location for Game of Thrones, and continue walking towards the spectacular Golden Gate, which was once used only by the emperor and his family. Enjoy the beauty of Peristil, the former main imperial square. The opera performances that take place here during the Split Summer Festival sound quite impressive – especially against the backdrop of the Cathedral of St. Domnius, the patron saint of Split, located in the former imperial mausoleum, which is one of the world’s oldest Christian buildings. In the many layers of Split, you will find opposites that magnetically attract. This is the place where Roman mosaics and Egyptian Sphinxes go hand in hand with the Ultra Europe festival, and luxury yachts are moored right next to the old fishing port of Matejuška.
Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark
Geopark features Biokovo mountain with its 1,762m peak Sveti Jure, and unique Modro and Crveno lakes. Witness Europe's unique wonders!
Biokovo
From Brela in the north-west to Gradac in the south-east, stretching over 193 square kilometres, is a real jewel of Croatian natural heritage — Biokovo Nature Park. It is home to more than 1500 plant species and about 200 bird species. Chamois skilfully navigate the steep passes with a long history, and the interior of the mountain hides away pit caves where snow and ice are ever-present. The rough cliffs of Biokovo descend sharply towards the sea, the view from its highest peak, that of Saint George, is spectacular, and taking a walk on the Skywalk is like floating in the clouds. Biokovo Nature Park was granted its status in 1981. Because of its surreal natural beauty, geological significance and uniqueness, the Biokovo mountain, along with its karst phenomena, the Red Lake and the Blue Lake near the town of Imotski, was also declared the UNESCO Biokovo–Imotski Lakes Geopark in 2024.
Dinara
The beauty of the rugged karst landscape of Dinara, the mountain massif located in the hinterland of Dalmatia, is to be discovered in its sinkholes, karrens, fields, caves and pits. There is something in this wilderness that calls, invites exploration, instils respect and, at the same time, soothes as well as relaxes. For centuries, people and stone have intertwined their stories here, loved and respected each other, stole from each other and gave each other life. You will learn about this strong connection at Dinara Nature Park, declared as such in 2021. Within its surface area of 629.48 square kilometres, it includes the mountains Dinara, Troglav and Kamešnica as well as the source of Cetina and its upper course with Hrvatačko Polje, Paško Polje and Vrličko Polje.
Geopark Vis Archipelago
The Vis Archipelago holds a very particular geological allure with its rock formations of interesting geological origin. Unlike other Adriatic islands with a sedimentary structure, the Archipelago, especially the area surrounding the Adriatic’s black pyramids Jabuka and Brusnik, as well as the inland of the island of Vis, was formed 220 million years ago from volcanic rocks, which are the oldest of their kind in the Adriatic.
Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark
Geopark features Biokovo mountain with its 1,762m peak Sveti Jure, and unique Modro and Crveno lakes. Witness Europe's unique wonders!
Biokovo
From Brela in the north-west to Gradac in the south-east, stretching over 193 square kilometres, is a real jewel of Croatian natural heritage — Biokovo Nature Park. It is home to more than 1500 plant species and about 200 bird species. Chamois skilfully navigate the steep passes with a long history, and the interior of the mountain hides away pit caves where snow and ice are ever-present. The rough cliffs of Biokovo descend sharply towards the sea, the view from its highest peak, that of Saint George, is spectacular, and taking a walk on the Skywalk is like floating in the clouds. Biokovo Nature Park was granted its status in 1981. Because of its surreal natural beauty, geological significance and uniqueness, the Biokovo mountain, along with its karst phenomena, the Red Lake and the Blue Lake near the town of Imotski, was also declared the UNESCO Biokovo–Imotski Lakes Geopark in 2024.
Dinara
The beauty of the rugged karst landscape of Dinara, the mountain massif located in the hinterland of Dalmatia, is to be discovered in its sinkholes, karrens, fields, caves and pits. There is something in this wilderness that calls, invites exploration, instils respect and, at the same time, soothes as well as relaxes. For centuries, people and stone have intertwined their stories here, loved and respected each other, stole from each other and gave each other life. You will learn about this strong connection at Dinara Nature Park, declared as such in 2021. Within its surface area of 629.48 square kilometres, it includes the mountains Dinara, Troglav and Kamešnica as well as the source of Cetina and its upper course with Hrvatačko Polje, Paško Polje and Vrličko Polje.
Geopark Vis Archipelago
The Vis Archipelago holds a very particular geological allure with its rock formations of interesting geological origin. Unlike other Adriatic islands with a sedimentary structure, the Archipelago, especially the area surrounding the Adriatic’s black pyramids Jabuka and Brusnik, as well as the inland of the island of Vis, was formed 220 million years ago from volcanic rocks, which are the oldest of their kind in the Adriatic.
Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark
Geopark features Biokovo mountain with its 1,762m peak Sveti Jure, and unique Modro and Crveno lakes. Witness Europe's unique wonders!
Biokovo
From Brela in the north-west to Gradac in the south-east, stretching over 193 square kilometres, is a real jewel of Croatian natural heritage — Biokovo Nature Park. It is home to more than 1500 plant species and about 200 bird species. Chamois skilfully navigate the steep passes with a long history, and the interior of the mountain hides away pit caves where snow and ice are ever-present. The rough cliffs of Biokovo descend sharply towards the sea, the view from its highest peak, that of Saint George, is spectacular, and taking a walk on the Skywalk is like floating in the clouds. Biokovo Nature Park was granted its status in 1981. Because of its surreal natural beauty, geological significance and uniqueness, the Biokovo mountain, along with its karst phenomena, the Red Lake and the Blue Lake near the town of Imotski, was also declared the UNESCO Biokovo–Imotski Lakes Geopark in 2024.
Dinara
The beauty of the rugged karst landscape of Dinara, the mountain massif located in the hinterland of Dalmatia, is to be discovered in its sinkholes, karrens, fields, caves and pits. There is something in this wilderness that calls, invites exploration, instils respect and, at the same time, soothes as well as relaxes. For centuries, people and stone have intertwined their stories here, loved and respected each other, stole from each other and gave each other life. You will learn about this strong connection at Dinara Nature Park, declared as such in 2021. Within its surface area of 629.48 square kilometres, it includes the mountains Dinara, Troglav and Kamešnica as well as the source of Cetina and its upper course with Hrvatačko Polje, Paško Polje and Vrličko Polje.
Geopark Vis Archipelago
The Vis Archipelago holds a very particular geological allure with its rock formations of interesting geological origin. Unlike other Adriatic islands with a sedimentary structure, the Archipelago, especially the area surrounding the Adriatic’s black pyramids Jabuka and Brusnik, as well as the inland of the island of Vis, was formed 220 million years ago from volcanic rocks, which are the oldest of their kind in the Adriatic.
Routes of Ancient Cultures
And if Split is the centre of the whole world, then Solin is the centre of Dalmatia.
The former Salona used to be the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia, and all the heritage you will stumble upon should you visit it bears witness to the glorious past of this cradle of ancient Croatian history. The largest archaeological park in Croatia will take you back to the age of the Roman Empire during a walk through its fascinating amphitheatre, where the spirit of gladiators lives on, whereas the forum with temples and luxurious villas echoes the grandeur of this former Roman town.
Traces of rich history will lead you towards Trogir, a town under the protection of UNESCO, whose magic blurs the lines between imagination and reality. While walking through the old town, you may run into Caerus, the Greek god of favourable moments, who will keep you company while you visit the Trogir Cathedral of St. Lawrence boasting a famous portal of the Master Radovan. Climbing the Kamerlengo Fort during the golden hour will open your eyes to new horizons. In summer, this magnificent stage hosts a plethora of festivals, such as Moondance and the Trogir Culture Summer.
Nature knew no boundaries when creating Central Dalmatia
Follow its footsteps and you will be rewarded with some of the most beautiful panoramas of the entire Adriatic.
The former pirate stronghold of Omiš is a unique meeting point of the sea, river, and mountains where you can experience various adventures in a single day. Climb the forts of Fortica and Mirabela, try the zipline above the Cetina canyon and test your limits by paragliding. After a holiday like this, you will want to change your name to 007.
The long and indented coastline of the area, full of hidden coves and beaches, reaches its peak in the Makarska Riviera. Kilometres of dreamy beaches interspersed with rocky cliffs and embraced by the blue sea are the Adriatic paradise on earth.
Punta Rata, Nugal, Slatina, and Velika duba are just a few examples boasting the status of some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. And once the mighty heights of the Biokovo Nature Park start calling to you, you will find it hard to resist. The Biokovo Skywalk will give you an opportunity to walk on clouds. Don’t worry, you don't need wings, just an eager spirit and a little bit of courage. Smiling as you're caressed by the clouds, you will be able to enjoy the view of the nearby islands while soaking in the sun. Just like Jonathan Livingston’s seagull, the path will take you towards a necklace of pearly islands that you will remember for a long time to come.
Beaches
Toć Beach
The 2-kilometre long Toć pebbly beach with its promenade, Okrug’s kind of “main artery”, becomes the centre of the riviera’s life in the summer months. In order to better describe the beach’s character, it is sufficient to say that amongst the locals and chance travellers it is known as the “Okrug Copacabanaˮ!
Punta - Maslinica
The main beach in Maslinica has experienced a metamorphosis and is a real beauty. For the first days of your holiday, whilst you slowly recharge your batteries and go on to explore the surrounding coves and appropriate rocks where you will retreat, rest awhile on the main beach with its spectacular view of the islets.
Šipkova Cove
Šipkova cove is situated on the western part of the island of Šolta, near the village of Maslinica and it is accessible from the sea, as well as by foot down a macadam path. The cove is adorned by a wonderful sandy beach, which is the only one like it on the island, and the crystal-clear sea.
Tatinja Cove
The cove is suitable for a day trip and a pleasant rest in the peace and quiet. It has several small beaches and is wonderful for those who love to jump from the rocks. The sea is calm, clean, turquoise and protected from the north and southeast winds.
Stiniva Beach
Due to an inlet of the sea, surrounded by high cliffs that hide the beach, Stiniva on the island of Vis is hardly visible from the open sea. However, access from the sea is ideal for reaching Stiniva beach. There is also a demanding 20 minutes access by foot which literally follows the goat track.
Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape)
The Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) is unique in the world. Like a tongue it stretches almost half a kilometre perpendicularly out into the sea. The tip of this famous beach is constantly changing under the influence of the waves and the sea’s currents.
Punta Rata Beach
One of the most beautiful pebbly beaches in the world is located in a protected area, a cape covered by a pine tree forest. In July 2004 the American magazine Forbes listed it amongst the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.
Nugal Beach
Nugal beach is also a hidden beach which is visited mainly by naturists, and it is located about 2 km from the town harbour, between Makarska and Tučepi. It is a unique natural beauty and the right choice for those who enjoy naturist tourism.
Panorama Beach, Makarska - Gradac
Panorama in the town of Gradac is one of the most famous shingle beaches on the Makarska Riviera and one of the largest beaches on the Adriatic. It is 5 kilometres long, on a slope, surrounded by olive trees and pine forests. It creates an incomparable holiday by the sea with a view of the Biokovo mountains. Due to being sheltered from the wind, Panorama is often a good anchoring place for small boats. A restaurant and a cafe on the beach offer welcome refreshment.
Mina Beach
For sure, Jelsa on the island of Hvar is a destination by the sea for lovers of sandy beaches, with the most popular bathing area, Mina bay, only 500 metres from the centre of the town.
Srebrna (Silver) Beach
On the south side of the island of Vis, we find one of the most beautiful beaches of the Adriatic. It faces the waves of the open sea, which, during the Winter, roll the stones and transform them into pebbles. The beach, Srebrna, was named after the silvery shine of the pebbles in the moonlight.
Central Beach, Igrane
The central beach is located below the main promenade in the village and is ideal for families with children.
Town Beach, Makarska
The central town beach in Makarska is the longest and largest area included in one part and extends down the whole inhabited strip of the western part of the town, from the town harbour to the last hotels of Rivijera and Romana, therefore about 2 kilometres long.
Nečujam Beach
Nečujam – in a cove, large enough to hide eight smaller ones, you can escape from the crowds and find peace. You can reach the coves by boat or anchoring with a sailboat, by kayak, by foot, to some of them by swimming or bicycle. In some of them you can even rent a house and enjoy peace and quiet all day long.
Bačvice Beach
“Let's go to Bačvice” is the famous anthem of this Split bathing area officially opened in 1919. Bačvice is a natural phenomenon, a sandy beach in the heart of the city, next to the city port, and it can accommodate more than 10,000 bathers.
Bijaka beach
Bijaka beach is located in the village of Milna itself. With its facilities and sandy seabed, it is suitable for families with children. If you want to ensure fun for your little ones, then this is the right beach for you. Alongside the beach are several restaurants and cafés which will offer you refreshments.
Bratuš Beach
Bratuš beach is a white, pebbly beach in a small, peaceful place on the Makarska Riviera. Bathers are offered all the necessary facilities, and a particular attraction is a rock for free climbing as well as the artistic work: Squid in Stone.
Donja Krušica Beach
Donja and Gornja Krušica are two beautiful coves, which developed from small fishing harbours. Today they are oases of peace for those looking for a rest. They are located on different ends of the island, as the names themselves suggest. Gornja Krušica is located on the northern “upper side”, i.e. the northeast side towards Brač. Donja Krušica is located on the northern “lower side”, on the northwest towards Maslinica.
Gornja Krušica Beach
Gornja Krušica is located at the foot of Vela Straža, the island’s highest point, and is surrounded by a pine tree forest which reflects in the sea. You can reach this cove by foot from Gornje Selo and from Stomorska road or from the sea. The green-blue oasis was made for bathers, tourists, the residents and those who visit it by boat.
Ikovac Beach
Ikovac beach has, for decades, been a kind of cult beach for Baška Voda and the Makarska Riviera. It is primarily aimed for the relaxation and fun of tourists of young and middle age generations. The beach has the basic facilities for bathers, and in the evening hours, it turns into a little romantic oasis.
Jarsan Beach
The pristine Jarsan beach is probably one of the most beautiful beaches of untouched nature on the Makarska Riviera. It is just 300 metres from the village of Igrane and is ideal for bathing and sunbathing in the natural surroundings, free of crowds and traffic.
Kraljev Gaj (King’s Grove) Beach
This wonderful little beach is the jewel of the Makarska Riviera, as well as beyond. It is hidden amongst rocks and a pine tree forest, and offers a beautiful atmosphere as if you were separated from the world. The fine sand and clear crystal sea are the perfect choice for every tourist. You can reach it by foot or boat.
Krvavica Beach
Krvavica beach is a white, pebbly beach shielded by pine trees which create natural shade. Users are offered all the necessary facilities.
Maestral Beach
The beach is situated in a picturesque bay. It is covered with tree tops of ancient trees so you can enjoy in a natural shade. This pebbly beach continues with a part covered with authentic tuff stone, which is also interesting for swimming and sunbathing. Right next to the beach, in the shade of pine trees, there is an Open Air Gym.
Nikolina Beach
Each year Nikolina beach is listed amongst the three best beaches in Croatia, whilst the Daily Mail even listed it amongst the 10 most attractive beaches in the Mediterranean Sea. It is the only beach with the Blue Flag on the Makarska Riviera.
Podluka Beach
The Podluka beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Makarska Riviera. The white, pebbly beach is shielded by pine trees and tamarisk shrubs. Along the beach there stretches a path, and visitors can use all the necessary facilities (catering, sports, recreational, and those for children).
Podrače Beach
Podrače beach in Brela is one of the most photographed beaches in Croatia. It is located right near the famous Punta Rata beach. In 2015 Podrače beach found itself in the list of the 15 most beautiful and most desired destinations for a holiday according to the choice of the European Best Destinations website.
Punta Beach, Makarska
Punta beach is located on the same-named cape on the southern end of the village of Igrane. The many tourist facilities, clean sea, pine tree wood and accessibility are reasons to visit this beach.
Ramova Beach
West of the town beach there is the first area of separated beaches called Biloševac, and then Cvitačka, which are located in the inhabited area of the town.
Rogač Cove
In the only island’s harbour, apart from the main beach, it is worth stretching your legs for five or twenty-minutes walk. This is how far it is to two beautiful beaches where you will be able to relax and enjoy the sea and sun, not thinking about whether you are late for a ferry or not if you come here for a day trip.
Stazica Beach
The Stazica beach is a long, white, pebbly beach shielded by pine trees. On the beach there are catering and sports-recreational facilities and one part of the beach is intended for bathers with pets, and one part for tourists.
Toć Beach
The 2-kilometre long Toć pebbly beach with its promenade, Okrug’s kind of “main artery”, becomes the centre of the riviera’s life in the summer months. In order to better describe the beach’s character, it is sufficient to say that amongst the locals and chance travellers it is known as the “Okrug Copacabanaˮ!
Punta - Maslinica
The main beach in Maslinica has experienced a metamorphosis and is a real beauty. For the first days of your holiday, whilst you slowly recharge your batteries and go on to explore the surrounding coves and appropriate rocks where you will retreat, rest awhile on the main beach with its spectacular view of the islets.
Šipkova Cove
Šipkova cove is situated on the western part of the island of Šolta, near the village of Maslinica and it is accessible from the sea, as well as by foot down a macadam path. The cove is adorned by a wonderful sandy beach, which is the only one like it on the island, and the crystal-clear sea.
Tatinja Cove
The cove is suitable for a day trip and a pleasant rest in the peace and quiet. It has several small beaches and is wonderful for those who love to jump from the rocks. The sea is calm, clean, turquoise and protected from the north and southeast winds.
Stiniva Beach
Due to an inlet of the sea, surrounded by high cliffs that hide the beach, Stiniva on the island of Vis is hardly visible from the open sea. However, access from the sea is ideal for reaching Stiniva beach. There is also a demanding 20 minutes access by foot which literally follows the goat track.
Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape)
The Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) is unique in the world. Like a tongue it stretches almost half a kilometre perpendicularly out into the sea. The tip of this famous beach is constantly changing under the influence of the waves and the sea’s currents.
Punta Rata Beach
One of the most beautiful pebbly beaches in the world is located in a protected area, a cape covered by a pine tree forest. In July 2004 the American magazine Forbes listed it amongst the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.
Nugal Beach
Nugal beach is also a hidden beach which is visited mainly by naturists, and it is located about 2 km from the town harbour, between Makarska and Tučepi. It is a unique natural beauty and the right choice for those who enjoy naturist tourism.
The blue expanse and nature in complete harmony
The first of them is Šolta, the island of the Illyrian queen Teuta and of Diocletian’s ponds, known for its virgin nature and peaceful bays.
Should you sneak a peek in its chest, you will find incredible treasures such as the famous Nečujam Bay, the muse of the father of Croatian literature Marko Marulić, or the elegant Martinis Marchi castle, which adorns the skyline of the charming Maslinica.
You won’t have to travel far from Šolta to get to Brač, the largest Dalmatian island. This island, favoured by the winds, has been nurturing the bond between man and stone since ancient times. Here, you will find the most famous Adriatic beach – Zlatni rat – a masterpiece of nature sculptured by the gentle hands of the sea and the wind. The small universe of Brač is also known for its white marble, which was used in the construction of Diocletian’s Palace, the White House, as well as Vienna and Budapest Parliament buildings and is thus woven into the history of world architecture. In Pučišća, you can visit a stonemasonry school that shapes artists who dedicate their lives to this treasure of Brač, whereas a visit to the Pustinja Blaca Monastery will reveal one of the most splendid monuments to island life.
While Brač is a song written in stone, Hvar is the Adriatic Hollywood, always on the top of the lists of the most desirable destinations in the world.
The largest square in Dalmatia and the centre of all events in the town of Hvar, St. Stephen's Square, offers a combination of a fashion show and relaxed leisure in summer. The seductive combination of glamour, nature, and history turns this island into a lavish cinematic spectacle. The first communal theatre in Europe, also known as the Arsenal, as well as the UNESCO-protected Hvar lace and the Stari Grad Plain pair perfectly with the intoxicating scent of lavender. If you gaze deep into the soul of Hvar, the sunniest island on the Adriatic, it suddenly turns into a fairy-tale world of charming towns (such as Stari Grad, Vrboska, and Jelsa), Mediterranean culture, and hidden beaches that reveal its romantic side.
At the border of the realm of Central Dalmatia, you will find Vis, an island whose many years of isolation have been both a blessing and a curse.
The entire Vis archipelago has been declared a UNESCO geological park thanks to its preserved and untouched nature, with the towns of Vis and Komiža offering scenes resembling those from old postcards.
The stone, the sea, and smiles. The three magical ingredients of summer. And let’s not forget the magical bay of Stiniva, a miraculous work of mother nature and the star of the film Mamma Mia 2.
And the best is yet to come. Biševo is the island of all islands hiding a cave with a million shades of the most mesmerising blue colour in the world. The Blue Cave will hypnotise you with its beauty, especially around noon, when magical rays of light illuminate its interior.
Zagora is the hidden gem of Dalmatia, whose picturesque nature, authentic stories, and a welcoming atmosphere have yet to be discovered by tourists.
History lovers should not miss the Sinjska alka – a unique knights’ game included in the UNESCO list of intangible heritage. Sinj, one of the largest Marian sanctuaries, is especially festive on the holiday celebrating the Assumption of Mary, when a large crowd of believers gather in the Church of Our Lady and celebrate her miracles dating back to the period when the town was being defended from Turkish invaders.
In the hinterland boasting the high cliffs of Biokovo, you will encounter numerous hiking and cycling trails, and another must-see place nearby is definitely Imotski.
Nature is the most skilled creator in the world, and it only took her two ingredients, stone and water, to create two karst lakes that are considered to be among the most beautiful in the world. Looking at the Blue and Red Lake, you will feel one with the environment and start to wonder if fairies might be responsible for such beauty – because how else could one explain these earthly wonders? Come and enjoy them – because travelling means freedom.
What to eat?
Gastronomic minimalism worthy of an empire
One can feast here on local specialties, from delicacies of the sea to lamb and the ‘arambašići’ of Sinj, washed down with the finest of red wines.
Concealed within its embrace is what locals like to call the smallest street in the world, which carries a rather curious name: ‘Let me pass’. Altogether, this enchanting, unique heart of Split has rightly been declared a monument of zero category and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.