The most fun things to do in Omiš Croatia
A lot of people visit the Croatian region of Dalmatia because of cities like Split or Dubrovnik but often overlook the charming smaller cities with fewer crowds and a lot of sights. One such town is Omiš town Croatia, located at the foothill of the monumental Omiška Dinara mountain and right on the estuary of the river Cetina. Because of this, it’s got the ideal location for any nature lover and plenty of activities for adrenaline junkies looking to raise their blood pressure. However, the old town core and the natural wonders are so charming and romantic, that it’s also the ideal destination for love birds and romantic sunset dinners. Thanks to its great location, Omiš is a perfect starting point for several trips – to the islands of Brač and Šolta or the cities of Split and Makarska. However, there are plenty of things to do in the city itself!
Explore the adrenaline offer
Adrenaline junkies will adore the town of Omiš – the Omiška Dinara mountain allows for several blood-rushing activities such as zipline or even rock climbing. The steep canyon over the river Cetina is ideal for a scenic zipline, and it’s easily accessible from the city. There isn’t one, but eight different ziplines in this canyon and they all offer a different experience which is why zipline Croatia Omiš is a unique activity.
The steep cliffs are the perfect ground for rock climbing, and there’s not a moment when someone’s not climbing the Cetina Canyon. There are a few rock climbing spots, and one of them leads to the fortress. The good news is that there’s also an easier trail to the fortress from the other side of the city if you’re not that into rock climbing.
If you don’t enjoy the heights, there are other blood-rushing activities for you such as rafting or kayaking on the Cetina river. Rafting is great if you’re travelling with a larger group and everyone will have so much fun passing the river rapids.
Visit the fortresses
The Omiš landscape is dominated by fortresses – the first one is Peovica or Mirabela, accessible from the city centre and located at a height of over 200 metres. It was built as an enemy observation post for the Omiš’ pirates which once ruled the city. Thanks to this, it’s the ideal spot for panoramic photos today.
The other, much larger fortress is Fortica which is at a height of 303 metres and from which the view spreads to the neighbouring islands and makes it virtually impossible for the enemy to attack suddenly. You can get to it by an easier trail that starts near the cemetery, or by rock climbing from the Cetina canyon.
Omiš Croatia is a historical city and as such has a beautiful old town core with beautiful architecture. Take a stroll through the city centre, take photos on the romantic stairs, and get amazing ice cream near the Cathedral in the “I Gemelli” pastry shop.
Explore Radmanove Mlinice
As an authentic Dalmatian city, Omiš also has a great gastronomic offer with the most popular restaurant being Radmanove Mlinice. It’s located a few minute’s drive from the city, on the banks of the Cetina River and offers amazing grilled trout and various meals prepared “ispod peke” which is a traditional Croatian way of baking fish or meat.
Once you’re done eating, take a walk around the restaurant – several easy trails lead along the river in the deep shade of trees. Who knows, you might even stumble upon some frogs.
Hike the Omiška Dinara mountain
When visiting Omiš, it’s impossible to ignore the monumental mountain that stands over the city. It seems as if it’s holding its back. Once you’re done exploring the town, head to one of the many trails on the Omiška Dinara – you can start from the seaside and visit one of many small chapels or even caves, and pass over the top to the Cetina side of the mountain.
However, remember to start your hike early in the morning because there’s not much vegetation and shade on Omiška Dinara. If you’re not so interested in the top, you can head to the “old village road” that leads from Omiš to local villages such as Lokva Rogoznica or Mimice. This isn’t so exhausting, and you’ll still get a great view of the island of Brač and the sea.
Best beaches in Omiš Croatia
When talking about the sea, we have to mention some amazing beaches near Omiš. The whole Omiš Riviera is great for swimming, so don’t limit yourself to the city beaches. One great Omiš Croatia beach is the Ravnice Beach which is a pebbled beach with easy entrance to the sea. Then, there’s the Čelina Beach in the Stanići village and various small beaches in neighbouring villages.
If you’re looking for a peaceful and unique swimming experience, take your car and head to the Nugal beach which is on the Makarska Riviera. It’s been proclaimed as one of the 25 most beautiful European beaches with steep cliffs surrounding it. Wherever you stop for a swim in Omiš or Makarska Riviera, you’ll get the most beautiful view of the Omiška Dinara and Biokovo mountains – an experience you don’t get every day.
How to get to Omiš?
The best way to get to Omiš is from Split, especially if you’re flying to Split internationally. Here you can rent a private driver in Split or take a public bus that will take you to Omiš in under an hour. If you’d like to visit the neighbouring islands, there are several tours with smaller boats, but no ferry so you can’t take your car.
Come for the adrenaline, stay for the beauty
All in all, Omiš is the ideal summer destination if you’re looking for Mediterranean charm, small crowds, fascinating scenery, and great swimming spots. You can go for a swim both in the sea and the river Cetina and there are endless options for day trips from Omiš. Visit this city of pirates and adrenaline for the best summer adventure!