The Traveler's Guide
Top 10 Things to Do in Rab
Is the Croatian island of Rab on your travel radar? Nestled just off the northern Croatian coast, near the islands of Krk and Pag, Rab is one incredible place to visit, with some of the most diverse landscapes in the region. Here’s our pick of 10 things to do on Croatia’s ‘Happy Island’:
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1. Get a closer look at Rab’s most beautiful landmark
With a long history dating back to 360 BC, the picturesque town of Rab is a must-visit where you’re on the island. Take some time to stroll its medieval center and admire its countless Gothic and Renaissance palaces, churches, and distinctive four belfries from up close.
2. Pay homage to St Christopher’s relics
The patron saint of travelers—whose name means “Christ carrier”—was beheaded around AD 250, thus becoming a martyr. How his skull made it to Rab is still uncertain, but you can visit it in Rab’s Museum of Sacred Art where it is preserved as a holy relic.
3. Picnic in Komrčar Park
On the edge of the Old Town, this luxuriant 8.3-hectare park is a lovely spot for a peaceful stroll and a picnic in the shade of the Cypress trees, oaks, and Aleppo pines. If you’re traveling with kids, there is also a fantastic playground.
4. Find your slice of beach paradise
Known as the island with the most sand beaches in the Adriatic, Rab will not disappoint! Be sure to visit Rajska Plaža (Paradise Beach), aka the most famous beach on the island and one of the world’s top 100 beaches according to CNN.
5. Hike through historic forest
As one of the most beautiful forests of indigenous Mediterranean holm oak in the Adriatic—and arguably one of the best-preserved natural woodlands in the Mediterranean—a hike through the Dundo Nature Reserve promises to leave you in awe.
6. Step back in time at the Rabska fjera
If you’re planning to visit in the summer, don’t miss Rab’s big medieval festival, which takes place at the end of July. Based on a 14th-century tradition, the event will give you a unique peek into what life in the Old Town was like in the Middle Ages.
7. Have a piece of Rab cake
A must-try when on the island, the traditional spiral cake was allegedly first served to Pope Alexander III in 1177 when he consecrated Rab’s Cathedral of the Assumption. Made of almonds, maraschino liqueur, and lemon, it is heavenly!
8. Get serenaded while swimming in Rab Town
Imagine swimming in the gorgeous turquoise waters of the Adriatic to the sound of relaxing music with stunning medieval architecture as a backdrop. A dream, you say? Hit the town beach and see what happens!
9. Climb up to the top of Kamenjak
Peaking at about 1,338 feet, Kamenjak is the highest point on the island of Rab. Follow the trail to catch amazing views of the Velebit mountain range to the east and the tranquil bay of Kvarner to the west.
10. Enjoy a Fisherman’s Feast
Every village on Rab hosts their own ribarska večer, or fishermen’s nights, during high season so you’ll likely find one on any given week in the summer. This is the perfect opportunity to feast on freshly-caught fish while sharing a drink with the locals.
Convinced yet? Before catching a flight, check out Rab’s official tourist board website for more inspiration, then choose from THE STELLA’s curated collection of vacation rentals in Croatia!
Next, read up on these Top 10 Things to Do in Cres and our Top 10 Thing to Do in Hvar!
