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Where to stay in Makarska
Makarska is a crescent-shaped harbour town squeezed between the Adriatic Sea and the towering Biokovo mountain range. Its geography is linear, hugging a main waterfront promenade that connects the old town core to the hotel-heavy beaches of the north. Choosing a base here is a trade-off between the historic charm of the stone-paved centre and the resort-style convenience of the northern coastline where beach access is immediate.
Old Town (Stari Grad)
This is the heartbeat of Makarska, defined by narrow limestone alleys and the central Kačić-Miošić Square. Staying here places you steps away from the St. Mark’s Church and the lively morning fish market. Everything is highly walkable, including the daily ferry departures and the main marina. Expect vibrant evening energy, stone houses, and immediate access to the waterfront’s best restaurants and wine bars.
Donja Luka
Extending north from the harbour, this area is dominated by pine-shaded walkways and the long, sweeping curve of the main city beach. It feels more like a resort district, with proximity to the Sveti Petar Peninsula park for sunset walks. The walk into the historic centre takes about fifteen minutes along the scenic promenade, making it a balanced choice for both relaxation and exploration.
Veliko Brdo
Perched on the lower slopes of the mountain, this area offers a quiet retreat from the coastal heat. You are surrounded by traditional stone architecture and olive groves, with the trailhead for hiking up Biokovo literally outside your door. While it is peaceful, you will need a car or a reliable taxi service to get down to the beaches and the town centre effectively.
One thing to think about
Avoid booking accommodation directly along the Obala kralja Tomislava during July and August if you are a light sleeper. The bass from the late-night beach clubs and the constant foot traffic of tourists can make resting nearly impossible until the early morning hours.
Other places to stay in Croatia: lastminute.com · Megabon
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Makarska are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Common questions
Do I need to rent a car while staying in Makarska?
If you stay within the Old Town or Donja Luka, a car is unnecessary for city transit. However, renting one is essential if you plan to visit the Biokovo Skywalk or isolated beaches along the Makarska Riviera. Parking in the town centre is extremely limited and expensive during peak summer months.
How do I get to the best beaches in the region?
The main town beach is crowded but convenient. For better water quality, walk south toward the Nugal beach, which is accessible via a dirt path through the Osejava forest. It takes about thirty minutes on foot. Alternatively, water taxis from the main pier frequently shuttle passengers to quieter coves along the coast.
When is the best time of year to visit Makarska?
June and September offer the ideal balance of warm water temperatures and manageable crowds. July and August see the town reach maximum capacity, resulting in significant congestion and difficulty finding dinner reservations. May and October are quiet, though some seasonal waterfront businesses and ferry connections may operate on a limited schedule.
Hotel links go to Booking.com.