Discover Rab Town, Croatia – a medieval gem on Rab Island known for its historic towers, sandy beaches, and Adriatic charm. Plan your perfect trip with our Rab travel guide.
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Set on a narrow peninsula framed by pine woods and the shimmering Adriatic, Rab Town feels like it was plucked from a Renaissance painting. With four distinctive bell towers rising like sentinels above red rooftops, this ancient Dalmatian town is as postcard-perfect as they come.
Once a Roman municipium, Rab has evolved gracefully over the centuries—today, it’s a blissful blend of cultural heritage, seaside leisure, and Mediterranean slow living.
🗺️ A Town Shaped by Time, Sea & Stone
Perched on a narrow peninsula that juts confidently into the Kvarner Bay, Rab Town is both geographically striking and historically rich. Surrounded on three sides by the glittering Adriatic Sea, and backed by pine-covered hills, the town’s unique location once made it a natural stronghold—and today, a dreamy summer escape.
Rab’s history stretches back over 2,000 years. Originally a Roman settlement (then called Arba), it became a municipium under Emperor Augustus, later flourishing under Venetian rule. The town’s prosperity was etched into its skyline—most notably by the four iconic bell towers, standing like sentinels along the ridge of the old town. These towers belong to the churches of St. Justine, St. John the Evangelist, St. Andrew, and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, each contributing to Rab’s nickname: the town of bell towers.
Wandering Rab’s historic core is like moving through layers of a living museum. The old town unfolds along three main parallel streets:
- The Upper Street (Donja ulica) – A peaceful promenade with hidden gardens and spectacular sea views, perfect for romantic strolls above the town walls.
- The Central Street (Srednja ulica) – Rab’s elegant heart, lined with galleries, cafés, and shops, where stone arches and Gothic windows speak of the town’s aristocratic past.
- The Lower Street (Gornja ulica) – Bustling and lively, it hugs the waterfront promenade and is filled with restaurants, bars, and the daily rhythms of island life.
At the core of it all is St. Christopher’s Square (Veli trg Sv. Kristofora)—the town’s largest and most vibrant square, named after Rab’s patron saint. Flanked by historic façades and shadowed by one of the towers, this is where locals meet, children play, and summer festivals come alive.
Whether you’re exploring ancient stone staircases, pausing in shady courtyards, or watching boats drift past the old harbor, Rab Town wraps its history around you in the most graceful way. Every bell tower, carved lintel, and sunlit piazza tells a story—and every corner feels like it belongs to both the past and the present.
🌆 What to See in Rab Town
🕍 The Four Bell Towers
The iconic skyline of Rab is defined by four Romanesque bell towers, each belonging to a different church. Climb the tower of the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary for sweeping views over the sea and terracotta rooftops.
🏛️ Komrčar Park & Old Town Streets
Lose yourself in the cobbled alleys lined with stone houses, artisan shops, and gelato stands. Then unwind in Komrčar Park, a leafy green lung just outside the walls, perfect for a siesta or picnic.
🖼️ Lapidarium & Prince’s Palace
History lovers should explore the Lapidarium and the Duke’s Palace, which offer a glimpse into Rab’s storied past—from Roman relics to Venetian rule.
🏖️ Beaches Near Rab Town
Rab Island is rare in Croatia for its sandy beaches, and several are within walking or biking distance of the old town.
- Banova Vila Beach – Just beneath the old town, this town beach is popular with locals and great for a quick dip.
- Padova III – A well-equipped beach just across the harbor with umbrellas, beach bars, and a family-friendly vibe.
- Pudarica – A short drive away, this golden beach offers sunsets that feel like they’ve been dialed up in saturation.
🌅 Best Experiences in Rab Town
🚶 Evening Promenades on the Riva
As the sun dips into the sea, the Riva waterfront promenade transforms into a lively social scene—think strolling families, clinking glasses, and the scent of grilled seafood in the air.
🎭 Rab Medieval Festival (Rapska Fjera)
Held every July, this vibrant festival transforms the town into a living history stage. Expect jousting, traditional crafts, medieval music, and plenty of costumed flair.
🚤 Boat Trips & Island Hopping
Rab’s central location makes it ideal for short boat trips to neighboring islands like Pag, Lošinj, or Goli Otok. Or simply sail along the coast, exploring secret coves and snorkeling spots.
🍽️ Where to Eat in Rab Town
- Restaurant Astoria – Elegant dining with a sea view and a fantastic seafood risotto.
- Konoba Rab – Cozy, traditional, and serving up classic island dishes like lamb, grilled octopus, and homemade šurlice pasta.
- Paradiso – A charming little café perfect for cakes and a coffee with a view.
🛏️ Where to Stay
- Arbiana Heritage Hotel – A boutique hotel with style and sea views in the heart of the old town.
- Valamar Padova Hotel – Family-friendly resort just across the bay, with pools and beach access.
- Private Apartments – Rab is full of charming guesthouses and apartments tucked into historic buildings or near the beach.
🛳️ Getting to Rab Town
- By Ferry: From Stinica on the mainland, ferries run regularly to Mišnjak (south Rab). The drive from there to Rab Town takes about 20 minutes.
- By Catamaran: Passenger-only catamarans also connect Rab to Rijeka, Krk, and other Adriatic towns.
- By Car: Easy access via the mainland and ferry makes it one of the most accessible islands in Kvarner.
🌞 Why Visit Rab Town?
Rab Town offers a rare combination: ancient history, walkable charm, vibrant festivals, and some of the only sandy beaches in Croatia. Whether you’re a culture lover, a beach bum, or a history buff, Rab offers something rare and magical.
✨ Planning Your Trip to Rab?
Explore more of the Kvarner region and nearby islands in our other guides on Explore-Croatia.net. From island escapes to food trails, we’ve got your dream Adriatic adventure mapped out.
