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.
Set on a narrow peninsula framed by pine woods and the shimmering Adriatic coast, Rab Town, Croatia, 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.
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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.
👉 Explore more: Read our complete guide to Rab Island.
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
From Romanesque towers and sun-washed squares to shady parks and centuries-old churches, Rab Town offers more than just coastal charm—it’s a living gallery of Croatian heritage.
🕍 The Four Bell Towers – A Skyline of Time
Rab’s iconic silhouette is defined by four Romanesque bell towers, each crowning a historic church and creating a rhythm of stone and sky. These towers belong to:
- the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
- St. Andrew,
- St. Justine,
- and the ruins of St. John the Evangelist.
For the best view in town, climb the Cathedral’s tower. From the top, you’ll see terracotta rooftops tumbling toward the sea, the narrow streets slicing across the peninsula, and the brilliant blue Adriatic stretching out like a storybook cover.
🏛️ Komrčar Park & the Upper Town
At the edge of the historic core lies Komrčar Park, a tranquil oasis of pine, cypress, and winding paths. Locals come here for morning walks, sunset gazing, or to simply escape the midday heat. As you exit the town walls from the Upper Street, the park welcomes you with benches, sculptures, and sweeping views of the coastline.
🛤️ The Old Town Streets
Rab’s medieval grid is unusually well-organized for a Dalmatian town. The Upper, Central, and Lower Streets run parallel to one another, connected by small stone alleys and steep staircases. Explore the Srednja ulica (Middle Street) for artisan shops, galleries, and lively cafés, or the Donja ulica (Upper Street) for a quieter, more scenic stroll above the walls.
🏞️ Dorka Town Park
Tucked beside the outer walls is Dorka Park, which lies quietly in the shade. This spot offers a peaceful retreat and a touch of mystery—perfect for those who like to wander off the main path.
🏚️ Ruins of Crkva Svetog Križa – A Quiet Corner of the Past
Tucked away on the edge of the old town lie the hauntingly beautiful Ruins of the Church of the Holy Cross (Crkva Svetog Križa). Dating back to the early medieval period, the church was once part of a larger ecclesiastical complex and served as a spiritual and community anchor.
Though only fragments remain—stone columns, low walls, and a partial apse—they echo centuries of worship, silence, and resilience. Surrounded by pines and crickets, the site exudes a peaceful, almost forgotten aura. It’s a place where history doesn’t shout—it whispers.
🌅 Trg Slobode – Freedom Square with a View
This charming open square sits on the edge of the peninsula and rewards visitors with panoramic views of the sea and neighboring islands. Grab a coffee, sit on the stone ledge, and watch the sailboats drift by—it’s one of Rab Town’s most photogenic corners.
🖼️ Lapidarium & Prince’s Palace
Just steps from the cathedral, the Lapidarium houses stone inscriptions, columns, and relics from Rab’s Roman and early Christian past. Right next door is the Prince’s Palace (Knežev dvor), a Gothic-Renaissance blend that once housed local nobility. It’s a quiet but evocative window into Rab’s political and cultural legacy.
🚶 Rab Riva Promenade
The Rab promenade (Riva) is the town’s social spine. Stretching along the waterfront, it’s lined with palm trees, moored yachts, cafés, and ice cream stands. In the golden hour, the stone glows honey-colored, and the whole place feels like a Mediterranean movie set. Ideal for lazy walks or people-watching with a glass of local wine.
🏛️ St. Christopher’s Square (Veli trg Sv. Kristofora)
The town’s largest and most vibrant square is named after Rab’s patron saint, whose stone statue proudly guards the entrance. With its wide open space, nearby churches, and occasional markets or performances, Veli trg is the town’s beating heart—especially in summer when Rab hosts its many cultural events and concerts.
🏖️ Beaches Near Rab Town
Unlike much of Croatia’s rugged, pebbly coastline, Rab Island is known for its diverse beaches—from sandy coves to rocky sunbathing spots, each with its own personality. Some are just steps from the old town, while others invite a short bike ride or scenic drive.
🌊 Banova Vila Beach
Tucked just below the town’s ancient walls, Banova Vila is the local go-to for a quick dip. Despite its central location, the water is clear and inviting, with a nearby beach bar for sunset drinks. It’s especially magical in the evening, when the town lights reflect in the sea.
🏝️ Padova III
Across the bay from the old town lies Padova III, a well-maintained, family-friendly beach with all the amenities: sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, changing cabins, and casual eateries. The shallow sea makes it ideal for kids, while adults will enjoy the lively beach bars and sea views back toward the town skyline.
🌅 Pudarica Beach
About a 10-minute drive south of Rab Town, Pudarica is a golden, wide stretch of sand and fine gravel famous for its spectacular sunsets. It’s a favorite for those looking to escape the bustle and watch the sun melt into the sea. The nearby Santos Beach Club hosts DJs and cocktails, adding a splash of nightlife for the sunset crowd.
🌿 Škver Beach
Located just a short stroll from the town harbor, Škver Beach is a small rocky platform beach with ladders for easy sea access. It’s less crowded than Banova Vila, making it perfect for a quiet swim or a sunbathing session with a book. The views of the moored boats and town skyline add to its charm, and it’s close to plenty of cafés for post-swim refreshments.
🎭 Rabska Fjera – Step Into the Middle Ages
Every July, Rab Town travels back in time during Rabska Fjera, a spectacular medieval festival that transforms the streets into a living history stage. Originally established in 1364 to honor King Louis the Great and St. Christopher, the event now draws thousands of visitors with its vibrant celebrations.
For three magical days, locals don traditional costumes and bring the past to life with archery contests, knightly tournaments, blacksmiths, weavers, and minstrels. The scent of roasted lamb and honey-drenched pastries fills the air, and handmade crafts line the cobbled streets.
It’s more than just a festival—it’s a full immersion into Rab’s medieval soul, best experienced in the glow of torchlight as the town walls echo with drums, cheers, and laughter.
🗓️ Dates: Usually held around July 25th, in honor of St. Christopher, the town’s patron saint.
🍽️ Where to Eat in Rab Town
From candlelit terraces above the sea to konobas tucked in stone alleys, Rab Town’s dining scene blends tradition with island indulgence. Expect freshly caught seafood, homemade pasta, and local olive oil on almost every plate—and views that make everything taste better.
🐟 Restaurant Astoria
Elegant and elevated, Astoria offers white-tablecloth dining with a panoramic view over the harbor. Known for its creamy seafood risotto, this is the place for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The wine list features Istrian and Dalmatian labels, and the sunset views? Unforgettable.
🐙 Konoba Rab
Tucked in a narrow alley just off the central street, Konoba Rab feels like stepping into someone’s island home. The vibe is cozy and unpretentious, but the flavors are bold and authentic. Try the slow-cooked lamb, grilled Adriatic octopus, or šurlice—a handmade Rab-style pasta served with hearty sauces. Portions are generous, and the local red wine flows freely.
🍰 Paradiso
This charming street-side café is perfect for a lazy afternoon break. Grab a seat under the shade, order a slice of their homemade cake—like fig or walnut torte—and sip a strong espresso while watching the world wander by. Paradiso is also lovely for light breakfasts or a glass of prošek at dusk.
🛏️ Where to Stay
Whether you’re after boutique luxury, beachside relaxation, or a homey apartment in the old town, Rab Town offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every kind of traveler. Most places are within walking distance of the historic core, beaches, and the lively promenade.
🌅 Hotel International
Sitting right on the main promenade (Riva), Hotel International is a long-standing favorite for those who want a front-row seat to Rab’s daily life. Expect modern rooms, an open-air terrace with views of the harbor, and immediate access to shops, cafés, and evening strolls along the waterfront. The location truly couldn’t be more central.
🌟 Arbiana Heritage Hotel
An elegant boutique hotel nestled at the edge of the old town, Arbiana blends turn-of-the-century architecture with contemporary comfort. Think marble bathrooms, sea-view balconies, and an on-site fine dining restaurant. The location is unbeatable—quiet yet just steps from the action.
🏖️ Valamar Padova Hotel
Located just across the bay, Valamar Padova is ideal for families and beach lovers. With a large pool area, wellness zone, kids’ playrooms, and beach access, it offers resort-style amenities with views of the old town skyline. Easily reachable by a short walk or water taxi.
🏡 Private Apartments
For those who prefer independence, Rab Town has countless apartments and guesthouses tucked into historic stone buildings or shaded coastal streets. Many come with kitchenettes, terraces, or gardens, and some offer direct access to the promenade or beaches.
🛳️ Getting to Rab Town
Reaching Rab Town is surprisingly easy, whether you’re coming by car, ferry, or foot passenger. The island’s central location in the Kvarner Bay and good ferry connections make it one of the most accessible islands in Croatia.
🚗 By Ferry (Car & Passenger)
The main car ferry route runs from Stinica (mainland) to Mišnjak (Rab Island), with Jadrolinija ferries departing every 30 to 60 minutes in summer. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes, and from Mišnjak, it’s a scenic 20-minute drive to Rab Town.
- Price:
- Adult passenger: ~€2.50
- Car (up to 5m): ~€16–€20
- Children under 3: Free
📝 Tip: During peak season (July–August), expect some waiting times at Stinica. Travel early morning or late afternoon to avoid the rush.
⛴️ By Catamaran (Foot Passengers Only)
Passenger-only catamarans offer a comfortable and scenic way to reach Rab Town without a car. Operators like Krilo (Kapetan Luka) and G&V Line Iadera connect Rab to:
- Rijeka – approx. 2h 30min | ~€10–€13
- Krk (Baška) – 50min | ~€8
- Pag, Zadar (limited seasonal routes)
Catamarans dock directly in Rab’s harbor, just steps from the old town.
🚘 By Car
If you’re driving from other parts of Croatia, Stinica ferry port is easily accessible from the Adriatic Highway (D8). From Zagreb, expect about 2.5 to 3.5 hours driving time, depending on traffic and stops. Parking is available in and around Rab Town, including near the old town entrance and Padova areas.
🚤 Bonus Option: During summer, local taxi boats and island-hop tours also run from Rab to nearby islands like Goli Otok, Lošinj, and Pag, making it a perfect base for Adriatic exploration.
🚗 Parking in Rab Town – What You Need to Know
Rab Town’s historic core is largely pedestrian-only, but parking is convenient and well-organized just outside the old walls. If you’re arriving by car, here are your best options:
🅿️ Main Parking Areas:
- Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV. (Waterfront parking): Just steps from the old town entrance and ideal for short stays. Paid hourly, with kiosks and mobile app payment available.
- Trg Municipium Arba (Bus station area): Larger lot just behind the Riva promenade, offering daily rates and good shade.
- Padova Area (near Valamar Padova Hotel): A short walk or quick water taxi ride from the old town, this area offers ample parking and is convenient for hotel guests and beachgoers.
💶 Parking Prices:
- Short-term (central areas): ~€1.50/hour
- Daily rate (outer zones): ~€10–€12/day
- Parking is usually free overnight (from 10 PM to 7 AM), but always check signs for exact hours.
📝 Tip: During peak summer months, arrive early to find the best spots. If you’re staying in town, ask your host or hotel about reserved parking or permits.
🌴 Day Trips from Rab Town
Once you’ve wandered every alleyway and lounged on every beach in Rab Town, it’s time to venture a bit further. Rab Island may be compact, but it’s packed with hidden coves, ancient ruins, dramatic viewpoints, and off-the-radar beaches. And if you’re feeling nautical, the surrounding archipelago offers even more adventure.
🚤 Goli Otok – The “Croatian Alcatraz”
Just a short boat ride from Rab lies Goli Otok, a stark, windswept island once used as a Yugoslav political prison. Today, you can explore the haunting remains of cells, barracks, and workshops. It’s eerie, sobering, and fascinating—all in one trip. Most boat tours from Rab Town include a guided visit and time for a swim in the eerily beautiful turquoise bays.
🏝️ Suha Punta & Frkanj Peninsula
Hop on a bike or boat and head to Suha Punta, Rab’s greenest corner. This peninsula is laced with forested trails, rocky beaches, and hidden naturist bays. Don’t miss Kandarola Beach, one of the oldest nudist beaches in the world—rumored to have hosted King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson.
🛶 Lopar & Paradise Beach
About 30 minutes north by car or scooter, Lopar is home to Rajska Plaža (Paradise Beach)—a massive sandy crescent with warm, shallow waters, ideal for families. Along the way, stop at Zidine, a prehistoric hillfort site with panoramic views. You can also rent kayaks or SUPs and paddle to nearby coves like Sahara and Ciganka, both clothing-optional and blissfully quiet.
⛪ Kampor Village & Monastery
For a peaceful inland escape, visit Kampor, a rural village surrounded by olive groves and stone walls. The St. Euphemia Monastery, perched on a hill, is home to an old library and a small museum. It’s a quiet, contemplative spot that reveals the spiritual side of island life.
🛶 Sea Kayaking Around the Island
One of the most immersive and adventurous ways to explore Rab is by sea kayak. Paddle along the craggy coastline, glide into sea caves, and pull into secluded coves that can’t be reached by car or foot. Rentals and guided tours are available right in Rab Town, with options ranging from half-day trips around the Frkanj peninsula to full-day circumnavigations for the truly intrepid. Expect turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of dolphin sightings if you’re lucky.
🐬 Dolphin-Watching & Snorkeling Tours
Several local operators offer half-day or full-day boat trips along Rab’s jagged coastline and nearby islets. Some include dolphin spotting, snorkeling in blue caves, and stops for grilled fish and rakija on deserted beaches. A favorite route includes Island Grgur, known for its tame deer and abandoned WWII relics.
🌞 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.
