Only 40 minutes from Split on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, Omis is one of the best destinations in Croatia for outdoor activities. The small town is steeped in history (including omis pirates!!), dead smack between two towering mountainscapes, and divided by the turquoise waters of the Cetina River. In other words, it is stunning AND filled with amazing things to do.
In this guide you’ll find all the best things to do in Omis, Croatia, from the beautiful beaches lining the Dalmatian coast, the medieval fortresses that stand tall above the city, and the stomach-dropping adventures that bring a little thrill to your trip in Croatia.
How to Get to Omis
From Split: The best way to get to Omis from Split is to take the bus. The bus takes about 45 minutes – 1 hour with multiple departures throughout the day. You’ll arrive at the bus station in Omis on the main road that runs through the town. Everything in the town is walkable from here.
You can check bus schedules and buy your tickets here.
From Mostar:
Another popular place people travel to Omis from is Mostar. The bus takes about 3.5 hours, although occasionally there can be delays because of the border crossing. There are 2 daily departures, with one departure in the morning and one later in the evening.
You can find the updated schedule here.
How Many Days to Spend in Omis
Despite there being enough activities to fill a whole week, I recommend spending 2 – 3 days in Omis if you are traveling around Croatia. Consider adding an extra day or two if you love outdoor adventures and want to explore longer hikes in the mountains.
When is the Best Time to Visit Omis?
The best time to visit Omis, Croatia is in the summer months from June – September. Summer season will be the best for enjoying the beaches and soaking up sunshine on the Dalmatian coast.
If you want to escape the crowds you can visit in the shoulder seasons of April/May or October/November, as long as you’re willing to lose the water activities. Temperatures can get as low as 10 degrees Celsius.
The 25 BEST Things to Do in Omis, Croatia
1. Hike to Starigrad Fortress
One of the most popular things to do in Omis is to hike to the Starigrad Fortress. The fortress was built in the 15th century to defend against the Ottoman Empire. It stands on top of a mountain above Omis, providing panoramic views of the town, its surrounding mountainscape, and the bright blue Adriatic Sea. You can wander inside, climb up to the top of the fortress tower for photos, and admire one of the best views in Croatia.
The hike to get to the top takes about 1 hour to complete for the average hiker and while a bit challenging, is 100% worth the gorgeous view. There is a small entrance fee to get in, which will be initiated by a man who watches over the fortress. He’ll approach you when you arrive inside.
Learn everything you need to know for hiking to the Starigrad Fortress: How to Hike the Omis Fortress Hike (Starigrad Fortress)
2. Experience the Thrill of Cetina Canyoning
Go on a canyoning adventure in the Cetina Canyon. If you’ve never been canyoning before, it usually entails rappelling down waterfalls, jumping into natural swimming holes, and slipping down rock slides into the waters below. It is an incredibly fun time in the beautiful canyon of the Cetina River.
You’ll be joined by an experienced guide who will teach you the ropes and make you feel secure in this adrenaline-inducing activity. There are both beginner and “extreme” versions of the tours in Omis and most of them last about 4 hours.
Here is an amazing beginner canyoning option that excludes working with ropes and has you riding currents, sliding, and jumping in the clear river water.
Check Out The Beginner Tour: Beginner Canyoning On the Cetina River in Omis
And here is an amazing “extreme” option for the canyoning that includes rappeling off a 60-metre-high (196 feet) Gubavica waterfall!
Check Out the “Extreme” Tour: Advanced Canyoning on the Cetina River Near Omis
3. Zipline Over the Cetina River
Omis is the most popular destination for zip lining in Croatia. It is a truly extraordinary experience because it takes you on 8 zip lines through the mountains surrounding Omis, at a max of 150 metres (496 feet) above the Cetina River. Not only is it a complete thrill of a time, but it takes you further back into the mountains behind the town for some of the best natural views you can see in Omis (and all of Croatia).
The zip line tours always start with an overview of how to safely use the equipment and you’ll be accompanied by two experienced guides. They also include all the transport so you simply hop in a van out into the wild landscape.
Check Out the Zipline Tour: Zipline Canopy Excursion Over Cetina River
4. Get the Best Views of Omis from the Mirabella Fortress
Mirabella Fortress, sometimes referred to as Peovica, is located right above Omis and can be seen while walking the old town streets. It is at a lower elevation than Starigrad, more built into the mountain than atop. Built in the 13th century, the Mirabella fortress has an interesting history of successfully defending the town against the Turks. The location of the fortress in the rock and by the river caused the shouts and shots from the defenders to be amplified, so the Turks fled thinking there were too many to contend with.
Aside from the stories behind it, the Mirabella fortress offers the best view of Omis. While Starigrad wins for overall scenery, Mirabella has the best unobstructed view to grab photos of the town backdropped by mountains and the stunning river from above. You can get to it by walking towards the river on the main street in the old town of Omis, where you’ll come across signs directing you to the fortress. You climb the steps to the top, stopping at the different elevated viewpoints along the way.
5. Go on a Rafting Excursion in Cetina’s Turquoise Waters
At the mouth of the Cetina River, Omis is the perfect place in Croatia to experience a rafting excursion. There is an incredible 10 km (6-mile) rafting route that takes about 3 hours and passes through waterfalls, swimming holes, and canyons. You’ll get to “shower” under a waterfall, swim under stalactites in a cave’s crystal-clear lake, paddle through rapids, and cliff jump (if you dare). It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the nature of Omis.
Check Out the Tour: Rafting Excursion on the Cetina River With Cliff Jumping
6. Wander the Historic Old Town of Omis
Of course one of the best things to do in Omis is to wander through its medieval old town. Omis was tied on my list (with Jelsa in Hvar) of the most picturesque towns in Croatia. This historical town on the Adriatic coast is home to narrow cobbled streets with medieval architecture and views of the white mountains above you. There are souvenir shops, places to get gelato, and of course delicious restaurants (more on that below). Part of the charm of visiting Omis is to wander and enjoy the atmosphere.
7. Go to the Velika Plaza Beach
Omis is known by many for the best sandy beaches in Croatia. The most popular beach in town is Velika Plaza. This is the main beach right in front of Omis, making it easy to walk to. It is one of the most gorgeous beaches I have ever traveled to because the white mountains loom above while you swim in the clean, crystal-clear waters. There is a lot happening at this beach in the summer, but you can still find a quieter spot if you walk down towards the pier.
8. Take a Kayaking and Snorkelling Tour
Another way to enjoy the turquoise waters of the Cetina River Canyon is by kayak! You’ll start upriver and kayak back towards the Adriatic Sea. There is a swimming and snorkeling spot where you can see a sunken shipwreck. Whether you have experience paddling or not, this tour is a unique way to get out on the river in Omis.
This tour below offers photos included in the tour so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own camera.
Check Out the Tour: Kayaking and Snorkelling Excursion in Omis
9. Take a Windsurfing Lesson in Omis’ Gorgeous Sea
A town for everybody’s type of adventure, Omis is also known for its sailing scene in Croatia. Which means it has fantastic winds to learn how to windsurf. Windsurfing combines the skills of sailing with the thrill of surfing, riding both the wind and the waves. You’ll be broken into groups based on age and experience, so you can join even as a beginner. How cool is it to come home with a new skill you learned on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world?
Check Out the Tour: Windsurfing Course Experience in Omis
10. Try Yoga on a Stand-up Paddle Board
Another fantastic thing to do in Omis, Croatia is standup paddle boarding by the beach. Paddle up the Cetina River into a beautiful bay and experience a relaxing SUP yoga session. Yoga on a paddle board is a whole new challenge and adds a lot of fun. You’ll also paddle above a shipwreck surrounded by colourful fish and have a chance to get in the water to snorkel above it.
Check Out The Tour: Guided Stand Up Paddle Board Tour in Omis
11. Visit the Stunning Brzet Beach
Brzet Beach is a stunning pebble beach only 15 minutes walk from Omis’ old town. The water is sparkling blue, the beach is lined with greenery, and you have views of the Karst mountains across from you as you sunbathe. It is considered the most beautiful beach in Omis.
12. Explore the Beaches in Neighbouring Duce
Duce is on the Omis Riveria and the neighbouring town to Omis. Beach Galeb and Beach Duce are worth the visit nearby. Beach Galeb is known for its shallow waters, volleyball, and water sports activities available. Beach Duce stretches 6 km long with shallow waters and water activities available as well. Both have snack bars and restaurants along the beach. You can even find some shade as there are small planted trees along the beaches.
13. Visit the Radman Mills
The Radmanove Mlinice is a scenic resort 6 km outside of Omis in the Canyon of Cetina River. It is built around the Radman mills, which date back to the 17th century and were used to power a wheat mill for the town. Today, the mills have been turned into a restaurant. They are removed from town in the midst of nature and offer a unique dining experience. Numerous tour options are available from this picturesque estate such as a glass boat tour, boat rentals, zip lining, and more.
14. Try Water Biking on the Cetina River
Have you ever heard of water biking? I hadn’t either. Water biking is a new sport and a unique way to explore the Cetina River. The bike is propped up on two flotation devices and you can lightly peddle your way around. You’ll explore the scenery of the river and its surrounding mountains and take a swim whenever you need to cool down.
Check Out the Tour: Water Biking Excursion on the Cetina River
15. Via Ferrata Up One of Omis’ Stunning Mountains
Another great way to get to the Starigrad fortress on top of the mountain is to climb there. The Fortica via Ferrate route runs along the outside of the mountain facing into town so you’ll have constant views over the river, sea, and Omis as you go. You’ll do a mix of hiking and rock climbing with cables, ladders, and steel bridges. You’ll have time to explore the fortress at the top and admire the panoramic views.
Check Out the Tour: Fortica Via Ferrata in Omis
16. Hike the Trail From Omis to Naklice
A bit of an off-the-beaten-path activity to do in Omis, a hike on the mountain trails to Naklice is a great option for hikers. The trail is about 3.9 km, is considered moderately challenging, and takes about 1.5 hours to complete oneway. You’ll ascend the entire way to the village of Naklice, admiring the gorge Liscina which drops steeply into the sea, and stopping at spectacular view points. At the end, there is a 7th-century church and cemetary called “Our Lady of the Snows” sitting atop the Poljica mountain range. The town of Naklice has a small cafe to sit and relax before heading back the way you came.
17. Rock Climb in Omis’ Mountains
Surrounded by cliffs and canyons, it makes sense that rock climbing is a popular activity in Omis. You can join a guided rock climbing tour where they provide the equipment and a guide to handle the safety gear. You’ll climb up to 30 metres (100 feet) in the air. The climbing routes vary in difficulty so any level of experience is welcome. Rock climbing gives you the chance to admire the views over town, the ocean, and the sparkling blue river while suspended off the cliffside.
Check Out a Rock Climbing Tour Here.
18. Take a Guided Day Trip to Mostar
If you want to visit another country while on your trip to Croatia, take a day trip to Mostar from Omis. Located 2 hours across the border into Bosnia & Herzegovina, Mostar is an alluring city with Ottoman influences and a culture that mixes Catholic and Islamic culture. Mostar is famous for the bridge that crosses the town’s dividing river, where locals dive 28 metres (91) into the turquoise waters below. The streets are cobbled and lined with shops selling Bosnian handicrafts and the mosques sing out with their calls to prayer. It is a completely different culture and environment from Omis.
Check Out the Tour: Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Full Day Tour From Omis
19. Take a Walking Tour of Omis
On an Omis walking tour, you’ll explore the historic centre to learn the history behind the picturesque architecture and landmarks. You’ll visit the Mirabella fortress, marvel at the 17th century St. Michael’s church, climb up to Starigrad, and stroll through the old town. Best of all, you’ll discover the fascinating history and stories of the pirates in Omis.
Check out this free walking tour here.
20. Marvel at the Cetina Gorge Lookout
The Cetina Gorge lookout is a short drive inland from Omis in the town of Zadvarje. The lookout point sits high above the gorge with spectacular views of waterfalls running off the towering cliff walls into the river below. You’ll be above the cliff tops, creating an even better vantage point to admire the narrow caverns below. There is parking available at the lookout point and you can shop for souvenirs in town as well. If you don’t have a rental car, you can hike for about an hour to get to it, walking through the mountains.
You can find the lookout point location here.
21. Enjoy a Relaxed Boat Cruise Down the Cetina River
Explore the Cetina River at a more relaxed pace on a scenic boat trip. You’ll tour through the nature park and its canyons that sit 7 km inland from the mouth of the Cetina River. Enjoy a relaxing trip, viewing the protected landscape’s natural beauty and the birds that make it home. Towards the end of the boat trip, you’ll stop at the Radmanove Mlinic, where you can have a picnic in the tranquil park.
Check Out The Tour: River Cetina Canyon By Boat Cruise
22. Visit Mala Luka Beach
Mala Luka Beach is one of the best beaches to visit near Omis. You can find it between the Nemira and Stanici districts. The beach is pebbly and lined with beautiful pine trees, providing some shade. There are unique rock formations in the water that you can snorkel around to see colourful fish. Restaurants and coffee shops are located nearby to grab a bite to eat as well.
23. Hike Up to Kula Peak
Kula is the name of the highest peak in the Omiška-Dinara area. It stands tall above the city of Omis and makes for a stunning 2.5-hour trek up to the top for panoramic views over the surrounding mountains. The total hike is 11 km, takes about 4 – 5 hours, and requires some previous hiking experience due the sure-footedness required.
You can find the hiking route here.
24. Visit the Statue Ivan Meštrović and its Stunning Viewpoint
The statue of Mila, a heroic figure in Omis’ past, by Ivan Mestrovic sits tall on one of the best viewpoints in Omis. The legend states that while near defeat against the Ottoman army in 1530, Mila snuck into the Ottoman army’s camp, destroying the gunpowder storage and setting fire to the entire camp. When the Turks tried to capture her, she ran to the cliffs of the Cetina River and jumped to her death to escape. This is where the statue stands today.
You can drive 10 minutes to the statue inland from Omis or walk there for about 1 hour. The statue and viewpoint are complete hidden gems in Omis, so there’s a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself. You can find a detailed guide on how to get there in this helpful blog post.
25. Eat at Pizzeria ANTULA
I only include restaurants on my lists of best things to do when they are truly deserving. Pizzeria Antula is definitely one of those places. They are known for having the best pizza in Omis (and some of the best pizza I had in all of Croatia). They have a lovely dining area with tables lining the outside of the building in the old town centre, so the ambiance is nice as well. While eating here is a must when visiting Omis, definitely plan to arrive slightly before or after the typical lunch/dinner hours to avoid having to wait for a table.
Final Thoughts on the 25 Best Things to Do in Omis, Croatia
Tucked between majestic mountains and the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Omis, Croatia is an absolute HAVEN for adventure travelers. From hiking up to medieval fortresses like Starigrad and Mirabella to adrenaline-pumping activities like canyoning in the Cetina River or zip lining over its turquoise waters, there is no shortage of the best things to do in Omis, Croatia.
Plan Your Trip to Croatia – Logistical Tips:
📱 Stay Connected Without Expensive Roaming Fees
I never travel without an E-Sim now. Stay connected at a fraction of the price of roaming fees, and my favourite part, you can simply download the E-Sim to your phone and don’t have to switch SIM cards around. The service I always use is Airola. You can also get plans that cover multiple countries in Europe if you are travelling beyond Croatia.
🏠 Book Your Accommodation
I always use Booking.com to find and book the best hotels at the cheapest rate. If you are interested in staying in a hostel to meet people and take advantage of their activities, you can book private rooms and dorms through Hostelworld.
🏄♀️ Book Your Tours and Excursions
The best search tool I use to book tours in Croatia and the rest of Europe is Viator. It has the largest selection of tours with local operators and offers flexible cancellation. I’m also a big fan of Manawa, a small tour company that offers adventure travel tours and great personalized customer service. You can find a curated list of Omis tours by Manawa here.
* Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. I only recommend products and companies that I use. Thanks for the support!
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