Villa Cvjetni

On the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia, Omiš is known for stunning fortresses and pirate history, as well as great beaches and a varied water-sports scene. With the River Cetina its star attraction, Omiš is the place to try those high-energy activities – canyoning, rafting, canoeing and zip-lining across the canyon are all on offer.

Omiš’s fortresses – 13th-century Mirabella and 15th-century Starigrad – require a bit of climbing to reach but reward the effort with stunning views across the area. Another good vantage point is the site of the Mila Gojsalič statue. Mila Gojsalič was a famous Croatian folk heroine compared with Joan of Arc, and the statue which celebrates her is located high in the hills, around 5km from the centre of town.

Beaches are abundant around Omiš, and the town’s lengthy Velika Plaza is perfect for an easy day out. Pebble beaches Brzet and Slavinj are also a short walk from town. Further afield, in the direction of Split, you’ll find yet more pleasant beach stops, like Dugi Rat and Jesenice. Head towards Makarska and Baška Voda is another good choice. If you want to see the islands, there are many more on Hvar, Šolta and nearby Brač. The latter is only about 15km from Omiš and is well worth a trip.

The town’s pirate past is the basis for all sorts of attractions, including a pirate ship which offers cruises with entertainment along the way. Aside from this, Omiš has an array of places to eat and drink, serving the needs of the many visitors drawn to its incredible location. Roughly midway between Split and Makarska, Omiš has convenience on its side too.

To the west, Split is the biggest city for quite some distance and has the world-class landmarks of Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral of St Domnius, as well as the captivating Riva waterfront. Split’s cultural scene is well-developed, with venues such as the Croatian National Theatre, the Meštrović Gallery and the Split Gallery of Fine Arts among the highlights.  

Makarska, the jewel of Makarska Riviera, is known for good nightlife and sits at the foot of Mount Biokovo, giving the Old Town its rugged backdrop. Hiking and adventure sports are popular here, while the Biokovo Skywalk delivers a thrill of its own; this glass-bottomed viewing platform up in the mountains is around 35 minutes drive from Makarska.

If Split feels too crowded, Trogir – about 50 minutes drive from Omiš – is a good alternative. With a UNESCO World Heritage medieval centre and an attractive waterfront, it’s a charming city you’ll be pleased you didn’t overlook. The most spectacular views in town come from the bell tower of St Lawrence Cathedral, considered one of the finest architectural sights in Croatia.

Read more about Omis

The Dalmatian coast is a veritable treasure trove of stunning landscapes and historic towns, and Omis, situated halfway between the famous port city of Split and the energetic town of Maksarka, is no exception. With its rich history, scenic backdrop, and a plethora of attractions, Omis stands out as a unique and captivating destination for those seeking to explore the charm of Croatia. The town's history is deeply intertwined with its dramatic geographical setting, which is dominated by the imposing Cetina River Canyon and the Mosor Mountain Range.

The old town of Omis, with its narrow cobblestone streets and stone houses, is a place where history and culture converge. It’s a charming place to explore on foot and soak up the local way of life. There are a number of historic churches that you’ll come across while exploring - the Church of St. Michael, the Church of St. Peter, and the Church of St. Rocco, which all showcase intricate architectural details and a sense of reverence. The old town is also home to an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and local shops, it’s an excellent spot to savour authentic Croatian dishes and find unique souvenirs.

One of the most prominent historical attractions in the town is the Mirabella Fortress, often called Peovica. Perched high on a rocky outcrop, this fortress was built during the 13th century and was used as a hideout by the notorious Omis pirates who terrorised the Adriatic Sea. Today, visitors can climb up the steep path to the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the town, the coast, and the surrounding landscapes.

Omis boasts a pristine stretch of coastline with a variety of beaches, each catering to different tastes. One of the most popular is the sandy beach at the mouth of the Cetina River, offering calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Adventurous spirits may prefer the pebbly beach of Brzet, known for its perfect conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Just a short drive from Omis, there's the small village of Stanici, which is renowned for its unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's a serene place to relax and escape the crowds often found in more touristy locations.

The Cetina River is a defining feature of Omis, and one of the most exhilarating activities here is to take a rafting excursion along its emerald waters. The river cuts through the impressive Cetina Canyon, creating a thrilling white-water rafting experience that appeals to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. The journey offers panoramic views of the rugged cliffs, lush forests, and the charming villages that dot the landscape.

The nearby Biokovo Nature Park is an outstanding natural attraction. The Biokovo Mountain Range, part of the Dinaric Alps, offers incredible hiking opportunities, with well-marked trails leading to panoramic viewpoints where you can marvel at the Adriatic Sea and the islands scattered along the coast. The juxtaposition of the rugged mountain terrain and the azure waters is simply stunning and will leave a lasting impression.

The history, natural beauty, and cultural vitality of Omis combine to create a destination that is rich in character and charm. Whether you're seeking adventure on the Cetina River, exploring the medieval fortresses, or simply savouring the local cuisine, Omis has something to offer every traveller who ventures to this utterly enchanting corner of the Dalmatian coast.