Dalmatia (Croatia) is a region located in the northwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula. The historical region is located on the Adriatic coast, occupying part of modern Croatia and Montenegro. There are more than 920 islands in the region’s water area. Some of them are built with stone labyrinths of ancient walls, where vineyards and olive trees are grown. Wherever you go in Dalmatia, you are guaranteed a comfortable holiday filled with unforgettable, vivid emotions.
General information
Dalmatia in Croatia is one of the oldest geographical formations in Europe. On the map, the region looks like a coastal belt stretching for 400 km from Novigrad and Paklenica to Cape Oshtro. Dalmatia is divided into three parts – Southern, Middle and Northern. Each one has excellent conditions for tourists to relax.
- The regional centers of Northern Dalmatia are Sibenik and Zadar.
- The center of Central Dalmatia is Split.
- In Southern Dalmatia, the center is Dubrovnik.
Thousands of islands have everything to attract travelers — historical and architectural monuments, picturesque nature, mild climate, and luxurious beaches.
Useful to know! The largest islands are Neretva, Krka, Cetina and Zranja.
The region has four national parks, three nature parks and numerous nature reserves. The list of sites that are under UNESCO protection includes the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, the resort of Dubrovnik, the Church of St. James and the historical center of Trogir. The coast is riddled with coves and dozens of beaches, where nature itself has created excellent conditions for beach holidays in Croatia, as well as fishing and water sports.
South Dalmatia
South Dalmatia in Croatia is considered to be the most luxurious and fashionable resort area in the Adriatic. It is here that you can meet movie and pop stars, bankers, politicians, athletes, representatives of the aristocracy. Many people on the coast have villas, because in this part of Europe the greatest number of sunny days a year. You can briefly describe the resorts of Southern Dalmatia as a land of picturesque bays, bays, clear, azure sea, delicious wines and numerous historical attractions.
Useful to know! South Dalmatia in Croatia is famous for its excellent service, developed infrastructure and delicious oysters.
Information for tourists:
- the territory of Southern Dalmatia extends from the Kvarner Bay to the Bay of Kotor;
- The resort region is separated from Croatia by Bosnia and Herzegovina;
- the administrative center – Dubrovnik-is included in the list of objects that are under the protection of UNESCO, and it has the status of a museum city.;
- the climate of southern Dalmatia is typical of the Mediterranean;
- almost all beaches are marked with the Blue Flag-a symbol of cleanliness and quality.
The main resorts of Southern Dalmatia are Dubrovnik, Cavtat, Mlini, Plate, Kolocep, Mljet, and the island of Korcula in the Adriatic Sea.
It is important! In the southern part of Dalmatia, it is best to come with children from the second half of August to mid-October. For swimming, you will definitely need special shoes to protect you from rocks and sea urchins. Most beaches are free of charge, but sun beds and umbrellas are available for a fee.
Administrative center of Southern Dalmatia
Dubrovnik is the most popular and elegant city in Croatia. According to UNESCO, the resort, along with Venice and Amsterdam, is included in the list of the most beautiful cities of the Renaissance.
In the 7th century Dubrovnik was a thriving settlement, where trade, culture and science were actively developing. The historical center of the resort, as if frozen in the past. Main attractions:
- Franciscan Monastery;
- church of the Patron Saint of Dubrovnik;
- Sponz palace;
- The Prince’s Palace;
- Cathedral of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary;
- central gate of Pila;
- Stradun Central Street;
- central square of the Lodge.
Dubrovnik welcomes visitors throughout the year, but most tourists are here in the second half of spring and summer.
Middle Dalmatia
Central Dalmatia in Croatia is located from the beach resort of Sibenik to the small town of Gradac (from north to south). The coast is surrounded by pine trees, and the secluded, picturesque bays beckon with tranquility and amazing beauty. The beaches of Central Dalmatia are rocky and sandy, forming comfortable and picturesque places for recreation. Small resort settlements are transferred to the Middle Ages.
Most popular resorts:
- Split;
- Omish;
- Brela;
- Baska Voda;
- Makarska;
- Sibenik;
- Trogir.
Also in Central Dalmatia there are beautiful islands for recreation-Hvar, Brac or Solta.
Split Resort
It is the second largest city in Croatia after Zagreb. Split is considered a unique settlement not only in Central Dalmatia, but also in the whole country – here historical monuments of architecture and a huge modern territory with a well-developed infrastructure get along harmoniously.
Useful information! Split has an airport with direct flights to all the resort regions of Croatia. From the city, it is most convenient to go on excursions to Southern and Northern Dalmatia.
What you need to know about Central Dalmatia:
- this is the warmest city on the coast;
- The main beach is Bačvice, marked with a Blue Flag;
- The symbol of the resort is Diocletian’s Palace.
Brac Island
It is one of the three largest and most picturesque islands of the Adriatic Sea. There are regular ferries to Brac from the ports of Split and Makarska. The resort is surrounded by pine forests, vineyards and olive groves. The landscape is suitable for cycling. In addition, the water near the shore is clean, so diving enthusiasts come here.
Read more about the island on this page.
It is important! A popular resort in Central Dalmatia-Bol, here is the famous Golden Cape beach.
Trogir
If the purpose of your trip to Croatia is tourism, Trogir will appeal to you. The historical districts of the city of Central Dalmatia are located on the island and are under UNESCO protection. Trogir is considered an open-air museum, and you can spend hours walking along the ancient streets, admiring its amazing architecture. Also in the city there are night clubs, you can rent a yacht.
Useful to know! Trogir is served by transport from many resorts in Croatia.
Makarska Riviera
It is one of the most popular destinations in Central Dalmatia. The main resort of the Riviera, the town of Makarska, is located in a small, sheltered bay, just 60 km from Split in Croatia. Makarska Riviera is the heart of Dalmatia, bringing together such resorts:
- Brela;
- Baska Voda;
- Tucepi;
- Podgora.
Brela resort is homely, calm, and attracts tourists with small pebble beaches with clear water and pine forests. Lovers of a calm, measured rest come here to take a leisurely walk along the embankment.
If you prefer a fun, noisy holiday, you will love the resort, located 10 km from the city of Makarska and 5 km from Brela Baska Voda on the Adriatic coast. The nature here is no less picturesque, and the tourist infrastructure offers a rich, full of impressions rest.
Tucepi is 5 km from the city of Makarska. It is here that the best beach in Central Dalmatia is located, its length is 3 km. It is famous for its developed infrastructure, you can practice various sports and visit fascinating historical and architectural sights. Excursions to the islands of Brac and Hvar, Split and Dubrovnik are available from Tucepi.
The small town of Podgora is 9 km from the city of Makarska. The resort is considered a center of cultural life, as concerts, folk performances, and festivals are held here throughout the summer. On the embankment there are many cafes and restaurants, souvenir shops. The atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility in Central Dalmatia is complemented by the cleanest beaches and dense vegetation.
Northern Dalmatia
Northern Dalmatia in Croatia occupies part of the Adriatic coast from the island of Pagna to the village of Primostena. Geographically, the territory is divided into two parts:
- Zadar Region;
- Shibenskaya street.
There are about 500 islands in Northern Dalmatia, which are the most visited:
- Pag;
- Silba;
- Murter;
- Uglyan;
- Vir;
- Pashman.
Also very popular in Northern Dalmatia are the islands belonging to the Kornati National Park.
The climate of the northern part is quite mild, typical of the Mediterranean. The average temperature in winter is about +7 degrees, and in summer – +27 degrees. The water in the sea warms up to +25 degrees.
The coast of Northern Dalmatia is considered the most picturesque in Croatia. Here tourists will find comfortable beaches, secluded coves, coniferous forests and beautiful nature. All settlements have a rich history, which dates back to the period of antiquity.
The largest number of tourists are attracted by national parks: Paklenica, Kornati and on the island of Krka (or Krk). The unique Plitvice Lakes Nature Park is also easily accessible from Northern Dalmatia.
Sibenik
Many tourists know this resort from the Cathedral of St. James, which in 2000 was included in the list of objects that are under UNESCO protection. Guests of the city are attracted by the fortress of St. Anna, built on top of a hill, which offers a beautiful view of the resort. Also make sure to visit the Fortress of St. Nicholas, the Franciscan Church, St. Barbara’s Cathedral and the Renaissance-style town Hall.
More information about the resort is available here.
Zadar
The administrative center of Northern Dalmatia, known as the main cultural and political city of the region. This is the oldest settlement in Croatia with a rich history and cultural heritage.
Interesting to know! At the end of the 14th century, the oldest educational institution in Croatia was founded here, and it was also in Zadar that the first newspaper in the country was published.
A large number of attractions are located on the territory of Zadar, because for many centuries the city was under the control of various states, each of which left an indelible mark on the appearance of the resort, forming its identity and flavor.
Zadar occupies the mainland, where the modern districts are located, and the peninsula, where the old city is concentrated. The most visited and popular street is Kalelarga.
Useful to know! Zadar in Northern Dalmatia is famous for its delicious cherry liqueur, and the Kornati National Park is located on the neighboring islands.
Dalmatia (Croatia) is perhaps the most amazing and beautiful region of the country, where every traveler will find a favorite place that warms the soul.
