Dalmatia; The coast & Islands                   

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The long, rugged Dalmatian coast, backed by high mountains with hundreds of offshore islands, is becoming Europe's most popular vacation spot.  In summer, Dalmatia is flooded with Italian tourists attracted by the marvellous Dalmatian cuisine.  Each island in Dalmatia has its own character from trendy hotspot to secluded getaway. The coast is dotted with everything from major cities such as Split and Zadar to picture-perfect beaches  such as lovely Brela Beach.   

Where to Go in Dalmatia

Southern Dalmatia

• Baska Voda--a resort on the sea with beach, sun & shade

• Brela--A pretty old town and a string of the best beaches in Europe.

• Dubrovnik-- The one and only; it's sleek, chic and ready to greet. After walking the city walls, explore Lokrum, Cavtat and the Elaphiti Islands.

• Hvar Island--Mountainous and green, the island has Hvar Town and the delights of the Pakleni Islands just offshore.

• Korcula Island--Another Dalmatian island gem, rugged Korcula is known for its olive trees and ancient Korcula Town.

• Makarska--Ideal for the active traveller Makarska offers climbing and hiking on nearby Biokovo mountain.

• Mljet Island--Whether as a day trip or a de-stressing holiday, this luscious island is a must on any Dalmatian tour.

• Omis--Huddled under looming rocks this former pirate's lair is known for rafting and good beaches.

• Peljesac Peninsula--Wild and windswept with the beaches of Orebic and the historic towns of Ston and Mali Ston to visit.

• Vis Island --Far-flung and underpopulated, this island makes a great escape.

Central Dalmatia

• Sibenik--A historic Dalmatian city with the St James cathedral, a World Heritage Site with a beautiful island archipelago.

• Split--There's always something interesting to do in this sprawling port, after you've explored Diocletian's Palace of course.

• Trogir--It's a medieval gem and another UNESCO World Heritage Site just a short distance from Split.

• Brac Island--Once quarried for its marble, Brac is now visited for its unusual Zlatni Rat beach and the pleasures of visiting Bol and Supetar.

• Primosten--Photogenic and a nice rest stop along the coast

• Vodice--A former fishing village, it now attracts a fair number of visitors.

Northern Dalmatia

• Dugi Otok--One of Croatia's least developed islands, it's easy to find a calm spot.

• Pag--Stretching from the Kvarner to the Zadar region, this long, flat dry island is noted for its famous Pag Cheese, fine lace and commitment to local traditions.

• Zadar--A walled Adriatic town like Dubrovnik with Roman ruins and a wealth of architecture.

• Kornati Islands National Park--You'll need to arrange an excursion or use your own boat but the Kornati Islands are unforgettable.

Getting to Dalmatia

By boat, bus, plane and train, there are plenty of ways to get to the Dalmatian coast and islands. Split is the main, but not only, entry point. Read more.

Tourist Information

The Split & Dalmatia County Tourist Office (tel 021-490 032) is at Prilaz brace Kaliterna 10/I, Split.

Related Pages

One week in Dalmatia: A recommended itinerary

Two weeks in Dalmatia: A recommended itinerary

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