Just 25km from Croatia’s second city, Split, Omiš is an incredible destination in its own right. Known for historic fortresses, numerous tempting beaches and its pirate history, this town on the River Cetina has carved out a niche as a water sports hub too. There are endless opportunities to try something new – canyoning, rafting, canoeing and the like – or to take a zip-line ride across the canyon.
If all you need is beaches, you’ll be well served in Omiš. Best known is the long, sandy Velika Plaza, located close to the Old Town. The pebble beach of Brzet is a pleasant alternative within a short walk of town, while the stunning Vruja is well worth stopping for if you take a drive further along the coast. Quite a bit closer, there’s beautiful Mala Luka on the way to Stanići, while a boat trip to the island of Brač, Hvar or Šolta will give you lots more options.
Omiš offers plenty of chances to get some serious walking in. Hike up to the 13th-century Mirabella fortress, or its 15th-century counterpart, Starigrad, and you will be rewarded with beautiful views across the canyon and out to sea. A notable statue can be found up in the hills near Omiš – Mila Gojsalič was a famous Croatian folk heroine, sometimes referred to as the Croatian Joan of Arc. The statue of her was created by famed local sculptor, Ivan Meštrović, whose work you will also find showcased at an impressive gallery in Split.
With that city within a short drive, it’s well worth venturing out of Omiš to see its attractions. Split has world-class landmarks like Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral of St Domnius, alongside cultural big hitters like the Croatian National Theatre and the Split Gallery of Fine Arts. The many beautiful public squares, the Riva waterfront and large Marjan Forest Park all offer spaces for relaxation, while a host of family attractions will keep those travelling with children well occupied.
Many more fine cities await you further up the coast – Šibenik, Trogir and Zadar all have considerable charm and historic treasures to see – but if you want to get out amongst nature, put a day aside to visit the Krka National Park. About an hour and a half’s drive from Omiš, this huge park is known for its beautiful waterfalls which form one of Croatia’s most recognisable sights. Also look out for the little island of Visovac in the River Krka, where a Franciscan monastery is situated.
The Region
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.
