Did you know that the small coastal town of Omis was once home to the most feared pirates of the Adriatic Sea? For over four centuries, these skilled warriors controlled critical maritime trade routes, challenging even the powerful Republic of Venice. Today, this hidden gem nestled between dramatic mountains and the sparkling Adriatic offers an extraordinary blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty that will take your breath away.
Getting to Omis: Location and Transportation Guide
Planning your journey to Omis starts with knowing how to reach this picturesque destination. Located just 25 kilometers south of Split on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, Omis is easily accessible by various transportation options.
Closest Airports
The nearest airport to Omis is Split Airport (SPU), an international terminal with connections to major European cities. From the airport, you have several options to reach Omis:
- Airport shuttle bus to Split, then local bus to Omis (most economical option)
- Direct airport taxi (approximately €60-70, travel time 45-60 minutes)
- Rental car (recommended for exploring the surrounding areas)
Driving to Omis
If you’re driving from Split, follow the Adriatic Highway (D8) south along the coast. The scenic drive takes approximately 45 minutes and offers stunning views of the coastline. From Makarska, the drive north to Omis takes about one hour.
Public Transportation Options
Regular bus services connect Omis with Split, Makarska, and other coastal towns. Buses from Split depart approximately every hour during peak season and cost around €2-3 for a one-way ticket. The journey takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
| Departure City | Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Frequency (Peak Season) |
| Split | 45 minutes | €2-3 | Hourly |
| Makarska | 1 hour | €3-4 | Every 2 hours |
| Dubrovnik | 4 hours | €15-20 | 3-4 daily |
Best Time to Visit Omis
The ideal time to visit Omis depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Each season offers a different experience of this charming coastal town.
Recommended Seasons
Summer (June-August)
- Peak tourist season with lively atmosphere
- Warm temperatures averaging 26-30°C (79-86°F)
- Perfect for swimming and beach activities
- All adventure activities and tours operating
- Higher prices and more crowded attractions
Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-October)
- Pleasant temperatures 18-25°C (64-77°F)
- Fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices
- Most activities and attractions still open
- Comfortable conditions for hiking and exploring
- May still swim in September and early October
Seasons to Avoid
Winter (November-March) is the low season in Omis. While accommodation prices are at their lowest, many restaurants and activity providers close for the season. Temperatures range from 5-15°C (41-59°F), and rainfall is more common. However, if you’re interested in experiencing local culture without tourists, winter can offer an authentic glimpse of life in Omis.
“Omis is a destination that welcomes travelers year-round, each season offering its unique charm and adventure. For the perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds, aim for late May or early September.”
Getting Around Locally
Omis is a compact town where most attractions within the center are easily accessible on foot. The Old Town area is pedestrian-friendly with narrow cobblestone streets not suitable for cars.
Walking
The most pleasant way to explore Omis is on foot. The town center is small enough to navigate easily, and walking allows you to discover hidden corners and appreciate the historical architecture. From the main beach to the Old Town takes approximately 5-10 minutes walking.
Local Buses
For reaching nearby beaches and villages along the Omis Riviera, local buses run regularly during summer months. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver and cost €1-2 depending on the distance.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis are available in Omis, particularly near the main bus station and town center. While ride-sharing apps have limited availability, local taxi services are reliable for trips to nearby attractions or beaches.
Rental Options
- Bicycles: Several rental shops offer bikes for exploring the coastal area
- Scooters: A popular option for visiting nearby beaches and villages
- Cars: Recommended if you plan to explore further along the coast or inland
- Boats: Available for rent to explore the coastline and nearby islands
Where to Stay in Omis
Omis offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to family-run guesthouses and private apartments, you’ll find comfortable places to stay throughout the town and surrounding areas.
Town Center Accommodations
Staying in the center of Omis puts you within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the main beach. This area is ideal for travelers who want convenience and don’t plan to rent a car.
Hotel Plaža
A mid-range hotel located directly on Velika Plaza beach with sea views and an on-site restaurant. Most rooms have balconies overlooking the Adriatic.
- Central location near Old Town
- Beachfront position
- Breakfast included
- Price range: €80-150 per night
Villa Dvor
A boutique hotel set on the hillside with panoramic views of the town, river, and sea. Features a rooftop restaurant and terrace.
- Stunning panoramic views
- Quiet location above town
- Free parking
- Price range: €90-160 per night
Private Apartments
Numerous family-run apartments throughout town offer an authentic stay with local hosts. Many include kitchenettes and balconies.
- Budget-friendly options
- Self-catering facilities
- Local hospitality
- Price range: €40-100 per night
Beachfront Areas
For those prioritizing beach access, consider staying in areas like Nemira or Duće, just a short distance from Omis center. These quieter locations offer beautiful beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to town amenities.
Culinary Delights and Local Restaurants
Omis offers a delicious introduction to Dalmatian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, locally-grown produce, and Mediterranean flavors. The town’s restaurants range from upscale dining establishments to casual konobas (traditional taverns) serving authentic local dishes.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Black Risotto (Crni Rižot) – A signature seafood dish made with cuttlefish ink
- Peka – Meat or seafood slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid with vegetables
- Fresh Adriatic Seafood – Grilled fish, octopus, and shellfish caught daily
- Soparnik – A traditional savory pie filled with Swiss chard, a specialty of the Poljica region
- Pašticada – Slow-cooked beef in a rich sauce, typically served with gnocchi
Top Restaurants in Omis
Konoba Joskan
A family-run tavern specializing in traditional Dalmatian cuisine with a beautiful terrace overlooking the Cetina River. Known for excellent grilled fish and meat dishes prepared using traditional methods.
Price range: €€
Location: Near the mouth of the Cetina River
Restaurant Milo
An upscale dining option with a focus on creative seafood dishes and an extensive wine list featuring local Croatian varieties. The waterfront location offers stunning sunset views over the Adriatic.
Price range: €€€
Location: Omis waterfront
Pizzeria Antula
Widely regarded as serving the best pizza in Omis, this casual eatery in the Old Town offers wood-fired pizzas with a variety of toppings. Popular with locals and tourists alike.
Price range: €
Location: Old Town center
Radmanove Mlinice
Set in a historic mill 6 km upstream on the Cetina River, this restaurant offers traditional dishes in a picturesque natural setting. The trout from the Cetina River is a specialty.
Price range: €€
Location: Cetina River Canyon
“Eating in Omis is not just a meal, it’s a celebration of local culinary heritage. Don’t miss trying the local wines from the Pelješac peninsula to complete your gastronomic adventure.”
Top Attractions and Sightseeing in Omis
Historic Fortresses
Omis is home to two impressive medieval fortresses that offer insight into the town’s strategic importance and pirate history.
Mirabella Fortress (Peovica)
Built in the 13th century, this Romanesque fortress sits directly above the Old Town and served as a lookout point and refuge for the Omis pirates. A short 15-minute climb rewards visitors with spectacular views of the town, river, and sea.
- Entrance fee: €3
- Opening hours: 9:00-19:00 (summer), 10:00-16:00 (winter)
- Difficulty: Easy climb suitable for most visitors
Starigrad Fortress (Fortica)
Perched 303 meters above sea level on a limestone ridge, this 15th-century fortress offers the most breathtaking panoramic views in the area. The hike takes 30-45 minutes from town and is moderately challenging but well worth the effort.
- Entrance fee: €2
- Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset
- Difficulty: Moderate hike with some steep sections
Exploring Omis Old Town
The charming Old Town (Stari Grad) of Omis features narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and a fascinating pirate heritage dating back to the 13th century. Key sites to visit include:
- St. Michael’s Church (Sv. Mihovil) – A 17th-century parish church in the heart of the Old Town
- City Museum – Housing exhibitions on local history, including the famous Poljica Statute
- House of a Happy Man – A 16th-century building with an interesting inscription
- Old Town Gates – Remnants of the town’s defensive walls
Adventure Activities in the Cetina River Canyon
The Cetina River Canyon is nature’s ultimate adventure playground, offering a variety of thrilling activities that make Omis the adventure capital of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast.
Zip-lining Over the Canyon
Experience an adrenaline rush like no other as you soar above the stunning Cetina Canyon on Croatia’s most popular zip-line tour. The course features eight wires spanning a total of 2,100 meters, with the longest wire stretching 700 meters and reaching heights of 150 meters above ground.
- Duration: 3-4 hours total experience
- Price: Approximately €60 per person
- Requirements: Minimum weight 30 kg, maximum 130 kg
- Includes: Professional guides, all safety equipment, and transportation to starting point
White Water Rafting
Navigate through Class II and III rapids on an exciting rafting adventure down the Cetina River. This popular activity combines moments of thrilling rapids with peaceful stretches where you can admire the canyon’s natural beauty.
- Duration: 3-4 hours on the river
- Price: Approximately €40-60 per person
- Difficulty: Suitable for beginners, no experience necessary
- Includes: Professional guide, safety equipment, and transportation
Canyoning Adventures
For the ultimate adventure experience, try canyoning in the Cetina River. This activity combines hiking, swimming, cliff jumping, and sliding down natural rock formations in the pristine canyon environment.
Beginner Canyoning
Perfect for first-timers, this tour focuses on swimming, sliding, and smaller jumps without technical rope work.
Price: Approximately €50 per person
Duration: 3 hours
Advanced Canyoning
For thrill-seekers, this tour includes rappelling down the 60-meter Gubavica waterfall and more challenging elements.
Price: Approximately €70 per person
Duration: 5 hours
Rock Climbing and Via Ferrata
The limestone cliffs surrounding Omis provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing and via ferrata routes. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced climber, there are options suitable for all skill levels.
Beautiful Beaches and Swimming Spots
The Omis Riviera stretches approximately 20 kilometers along the Adriatic coast, offering a variety of beautiful beaches and swimming spots for every preference.
Velika Plaza (Main Town Beach)
This 700-meter long sandy beach is located in the heart of Omis and is perfect for families. The shallow entry and fine golden sand make it ideal for children, while the backdrop of mountains creates a stunning setting for sunbathing and swimming.
- Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, beach bars, equipment rental
- Activities: Beach volleyball, water sports, paddleboats
- Accessibility: Easily walkable from town center
- Best for: Families with children, convenience
Plaža Brzet
Located just a 15-minute walk from the town center, Brzet Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Omis area. This pebble beach features crystal-clear water and is partially shaded by pine trees.
- Facilities: Beach bar, restaurant, showers
- Activities: Snorkeling, swimming
- Accessibility: 15-minute walk from town or short bus ride
- Best for: Natural beauty, clearer water
Duće Beaches
The neighboring town of Duće, just north of Omis, features a 6-kilometer stretch of beautiful sandy and pebble beaches. These less crowded beaches are perfect for those seeking a quieter beach experience while still being close to Omis.
| Beach Name | Type | Distance from Omis | Best Features |
| Velika Plaza | Sandy | In town center | Family-friendly, amenities |
| Brzet Beach | Pebble | 1.5 km | Natural beauty, clear water |
| Duće Beach | Sandy/Pebble | 3 km | Long shoreline, less crowded |
| Mala Luka | Pebble | 7 km | Secluded, snorkeling |
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Omis City Museum
Located near the eastern gate of the Old Town, the City Museum houses exhibitions on the rich history of Omis, including artifacts from its pirate past. The museum’s highlight is the Poljica Statute, a medieval legal code that regulated public relations during the time of the Poljica Republic.
- Opening hours: 9:00-13:00 and 17:00-20:00 (summer), shorter hours in winter
- Entrance fee: €3
- Guided tours available in multiple languages
Festival of Dalmatian Klapa Songs
If you visit Omis in July, don’t miss the famous Festival of Dalmatian Klapa Songs (Festival Dalmatinskih klapa). This unique cultural event celebrates the traditional a cappella singing style of the Dalmatian region, with performances by klapa groups from across Croatia and beyond.
The festival takes place in various locations throughout Omis, including the main square and St. Michael’s Church. The performances often tell stories of love, life on the islands, and the sea, providing insight into traditional Dalmatian culture.
Pirate Heritage
Omis celebrates its pirate history through various cultural events and attractions. During summer months, you might encounter “pirates” in traditional costume in the Old Town, and some tour operators offer pirate-themed boat trips along the coast.
The annual Pirate Battle reenactment in August is a popular event that recreates the town’s swashbuckling past with costumed performers, traditional boats, and festive activities throughout the town.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Hiking Trails and Mountain Views
The mountains surrounding Omis offer excellent hiking opportunities with trails suitable for various fitness levels. Some of the most popular hiking routes include:
Omis – Starigrad Fortress Trail
The most popular hiking trail leads to the Starigrad Fortress, offering panoramic views of the town, river, and sea. The trail takes approximately 30-45 minutes one way and is moderately challenging.
Starting point: Put Borka Street in Omis
Difficulty: Moderate
Omis – Kula Peak Trail
For more experienced hikers, the trail to Kula Peak (the highest point in the Omiska-Dinara area) offers stunning panoramic views. The 11 km route takes about 4-5 hours round trip.
Starting point: Omis town center
Difficulty: Challenging
Kayaking and Water Sports
The Cetina River and Adriatic coastline provide perfect conditions for various water sports and activities:
- Kayaking – Explore the Cetina River Canyon or paddle along the coast
- Stand-up Paddleboarding – Available for rent at several beaches
- Windsurfing – Lessons and equipment rental available in Omis
- Parasailing – Experience flying above the Adriatic Sea
Cycling Routes
The area around Omis offers several scenic cycling routes that cater to different experience levels. Bike rentals are available in town, and some accommodations provide bicycles for guests.
Day Trips from Omis
Omis’s central location on the Dalmatian coast makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions and destinations. Here are some of the best day trips from Omis:
Split
Just 25 km away, Croatia’s second-largest city offers the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, vibrant markets, and excellent museums.
- Travel time: 45 minutes by bus
- Cost: €2-3 bus fare
- Highlights: Diocletian’s Palace, Riva Promenade, Marjan Hill
Krka National Park
Famous for its series of seven waterfalls and crystal-clear swimming areas, Krka National Park is a natural paradise worth visiting.
- Travel time: 1.5 hours by car
- Entrance fee: €10-30 (seasonal)
- Highlights: Skradinski Buk waterfall, swimming areas, hiking trails
Island Hopping
Visit the nearby islands of Brač and Hvar for beautiful beaches, historic towns, and crystal-clear waters.
- Travel time: 1-2 hours by ferry
- Cost: €10-20 ferry fare
- Highlights: Zlatni Rat beach (Brač), Hvar Town, secluded coves
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Safety Information
Omis is generally a very safe destination for travelers. Croatia has a low crime rate, and tourists rarely experience safety issues. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions:
- Keep valuables secure and be aware of your belongings in crowded areas
- For adventure activities, always use reputable companies with proper safety equipment
- When hiking, bring sufficient water, wear appropriate footwear, and inform someone of your route
- Swimming is generally safe, but pay attention to flag warnings at beaches
Local Etiquette
Croatians are generally warm and welcoming to tourists. Following these simple etiquette guidelines will help you interact respectfully with locals:
- Greetings are important – a simple “Dobar dan” (Good day) is appreciated
- Tipping is customary but not excessive – 10% is standard for good service
- Dress modestly when visiting churches (cover shoulders and knees)
- Ask permission before photographing locals
Local Customs
Understanding a few local customs can enhance your experience in Omis:
- Coffee culture is important – locals often spend hours over a single coffee socializing
- Meal times tend to be later than in some countries – lunch around 2 PM and dinner after 8 PM
- Croatians are proud of their regional products – showing interest in local wines, olive oils, and foods is appreciated
- Family is central to Croatian culture – children are welcome almost everywhere
Visitor Comments About Omis
“We spent three days in Omis and wished we had planned for more! The zip-lining experience over the Cetina Canyon was absolutely breathtaking, and the beaches were perfect for our children. Don’t miss hiking up to Starigrad Fortress for sunset – it was the highlight of our Croatian adventure.”
“As an avid hiker, I found the trails around Omis to be spectacular. The views from Kula Peak were worth every drop of sweat! The town itself has a charming authenticity that larger tourist destinations sometimes lack. The seafood at Restaurant Milo was some of the best I’ve had anywhere in the Mediterranean.”
“Omis surprised us with its perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. We stayed in a lovely apartment in the Old Town and enjoyed exploring the pirate history. The rafting trip on the Cetina River was exciting but still family-friendly enough for our teenagers. Velika Plaza beach was perfect for unwinding after our activities.”
Practical Travel Tips
Money and Costs
- Currency: Croatia uses the Euro (€)
- ATMs: Readily available in Omis town center
- Credit cards: Widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for smaller establishments
- Budget: €50-100 per day per person (mid-range) including accommodation, food, and activities
Language
The official language is Croatian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, particularly by younger people. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases is appreciated:
- Hello – Bok (informal) or Dobar dan (formal)
- Thank you – Hvala
- Please – Molim
- Yes/No – Da/Ne
Internet and Connectivity
Wi-Fi is widely available in accommodations, restaurants, and cafes. For mobile data, consider purchasing a local SIM card for better coverage and to avoid roaming charges.
Health and Emergency
- Emergency number: 112
- Pharmacies: Several in town center with English-speaking staff
- Medical care: Health center in Omis for minor issues; major hospital in Split
- Travel insurance: Recommended, especially if participating in adventure activities
What to Pack
- Summer essentials: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, light clothing
- Beach gear: Swimwear, beach towel, water shoes (helpful for pebble beaches)
- Adventure activities: Quick-dry clothing, comfortable walking shoes
- Evening wear: Light jacket or sweater (even summer evenings can be breezy)
Embrace the Adventure: Your Omis Journey Awaits
Omis captures the essence of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast in a perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. From soaring above the Cetina Canyon on a zip-line to exploring medieval pirate fortresses, from relaxing on golden beaches to savoring fresh seafood with mountain views, this charming coastal town offers experiences that will linger in your memory long after your tan fades.
Unlike larger tourist destinations, Omis retains an authentic charm and local character that makes every visitor feel welcome. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, cultural discoveries, or simply a beautiful place to unwind by the sea, Omis delivers with a distinctive Croatian flair.
As you plan your Croatian adventure, consider giving Omis the time it deserves – those who discover this gem between the mountains and the sea rarely regret staying an extra day or two. The pirates of Omis once found treasure in these waters; today, travelers find something perhaps even more valuable: unforgettable experiences in one of the Adriatic’s most captivating destinations.
The above is subject to change.
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