Omiš on Easter Weekend

The Saturday before Easter, we took a spontaneous drive up the coast to explore Omiš. 

Since March is well before the busy tourist season, the town was blissfully empty—a quiet backdrop that made our adventure even more special. Giant eggs were displayed around town, adding a whimsical touch to our day. It felt like we had the whole place to ourselves, inviting us to explore every narrow alley and sunlit piazzas at our own pace.

One stop was a cozy restaurant—the only one open in town—that served an absolutely amazing fish lunch.  If you've known my landlock-raised self for any time, you’ll know that seafood has always been a no thank you for me. Croatia is where I learned to love seafood. The waiter and I had a mistranslation and I ended up reaching out of my comfort zone and trying even more seafood than I usually would. 

With our bellies happily full, we decided to stretch our legs and hike above Omiš for some breathtaking views. The town is beautifully nestled among towering mountains, a haven favored by mountain climbers. Daniel and Cirrus took on the challenge of climbing even higher, chasing those panoramic vistas, while we wisely kept Magnus safe on the lower steps—the steep paths were just too much for our old man.

Omiš isn’t just a pretty face. Located around 30 minutes south of Mertojak at the mouth of the Cetina River, this town has been inhabited for over 2,000 years. Its past is as rugged and fascinating as the surrounding mountains. In the 12th and 13th centuries, the area was notorious for the Omiš Pirates. These formidable seafarers controlled the waters between Omiš and Dubrovnik, exacting tribute from passing sailors and even clashing with Crusader ships—earning the ire of the Pope himself. Their reign was finally subdued by the Venetians in the latter half of the 13th century.

The Venetian influence didn’t stop there. In the 15th century, Omiš became an important stronghold under Venetian rule, with high walls encircling the town and giving it its distinctive medieval architectural style. Narrow alleyways wound between intersecting squares and piazzas, where public life once buzzed with energy. After the fall of the Venetian Republic, Omiš eventually removed its town walls at the beginning of the 19th century, transitioning into the charming town we explored today.

Our day in Omiš was a perfect blend of modern leisure and ancient history—a delightful reminder of how travel can transport you through time. From our leisurely fish lunch and scenic hike to absorbing centuries of rich history, every moment was filled with wonder. With Daniel, Magnus, and Cirrus by my side, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore such a captivating corner of Dalmatia.