Rab

Located in the Gulf of Kvarner, the island of Rab is one of Croatia’s most favored spots for boaters and island hoppers alike. Set just west of the Croatian mainland in the northern Dalmatian region, Rab is known for its amazing beaches, delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife and sights across the island, making it appealing for all. Some of the main settlements here include Rab Town, Lopar, Banjol, Kampor, and Barbat. In Rab town visitors can find the main historic sites such as St. Ivan and St. Justina. Just south of Rab is Banjol and Barbat both of which are more secluded and centered around their beaches, as is the northern settlement of Lopar. Kampor can be found inland and is known for the Rab Concentration Camp. Visitors can spend the day exploring the many sites and settlements or numerous beaches before ending the day at one of the island's gastronomic hotspots or charming pubs. 

History

Rab has a rich history which is recorded in texts as far back as 360 BC. First settled by the Illyrians, it was named Arba, which derives from the Illyric word “lush” due to its thick forests. The Roman emperor Octavian Augustus built the island's first defensive walls which can still be seen today, before declaring it a Municipium. Between the 11th and 13th centuries after a Byzantine rule, the island was a strong economic and cultural center and was run by the Croatian Kingdom in alliance with the Republic of Venice making it part of an Adriatic collective. For centuries after, the island saw rule under the Hungarian Empire, the French Republic, and Italy up until the First World War when it became part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. After the fall of Yugoslavia in 1991, Rab took part in the Croatian independence referendum when it officially became part of Croatia. 

What is Rab Famous For?

Rab’s most popular activities center around its coast, including the town of Rab which is set along the shores. The town is surrounded by historic city walls and church towers, as well as churches and monasteries like Rab Cathedral and St. Bernardin. Rajska Beach, a sandy stretch north of Rab, is a popular seaside spot on the island. Other favourved beaches include Padova III Beach, Pudarica Beach and Banova Vila to name a few. There are more than 100 hiking trails that cross the thick pine forests and the Forest of Dundo. Many of the restaurants found here offer freshly grilled fish,and visitors should experience the Konoba taverns, where a selection of traditional dishes and local drinks are served. 

Places to Visit in Rab

Rab is a popular island off of Croatia’s northern Dalmatian coast in the Gulf of Kvarner or Kvarner Bay. It is home to incredible deserted beaches, secluded inlets, turquoise clear waters, and stunning locales such as Rajska beach, Suha Punta Beach, Pudarica Beach, Kandarola Nude Beach, Banova Vila, and  Padova III Beach to name just a few. Various kinds of watersports, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking are just some of the popular local activities. The homonymous Rab and its Old Town is the biggest and most popular settlement. Here, visitors can find the most visited attractions like the Great Bell Tower of St. Andrew, the Franciscan Monastery of St. Bernardin, and The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary all of which can be explored on foot. 

Rab Island has 8 main settlements around its beautiful coastline, the most popular being Rab Town, Lopar, Supetarska Draga, and Palit. Rab houses the Dundo Botanical Reserve, declared a natural rarity in 1949 due to its Holm Oak forest. There is also Komrcar Park, another leafy green getaway near Palit. There are over 100 hiking trails dotted around the island, perfect for those wanting to explore the natural sites Rab has to offer.  One of the most visited spots is the Museum of Sacred Art, located right next to St. Justin Church, which displays historic manuscripts, artifacts, and a tomb and a skull supposedly belonging to St. Christopher himself.  Visitors can end their day at one of the many ‘konoba’ restaurants, which is a traditional type of tavern where guests can indulge in local dishes. Visitors can also dine at the 200-year-old Santa Maria Palace, which is open to guests as a restaurant. 

Best Time to Visit Rab

Rab is a popular island for those looking for sun, sea, and sand located in the Gulf of Kvarner, part of the Adriatic Sea.  Known for its warm Mediterranean climate, the island boasts beautiful beaches, private bays, monumental sites, hiking trails, and summer festivals which take place throughout the warm season.  Rab’s summer season spans for just under half a year between May and September which is part of why it is such a visited location for those traveling. Before arriving, visitors are advised to pack accordingly and prepare particularly for the heat and sun with creams, clothing, and other supplies.  Visitors can also experience some of the great festivals that take place such as the RabskaFjera and Lopar Paradise Kids Festival. 

The most popular time to visit Rab is during the summer months. Much like the surrounding islands in the Gulf of Kvarner, Rab is known for its northern Mediterranean weather, with warm summers and cool winters. The summer season spans for just under half a year between May and September, much of which is when tourism takes place, in particular July and August when the high heat coincides with crowd peaks. These are also the best months to enjoy the extensive coastline, though bay hoping, boating, swimming or just exploring the beautiful island. 

Weather in Rab

The summer days in Rab are predominantly dry and hot, spanning just under half a year between May and September. The hottest months however are July and August with average highs of 82.4°F (28°C) during both months. The summer days are long and warm, the month of June being the longest with over 15 hours of daily sunshine, giving plenty of sunlit hours to enjoy the island. For the most part, Rab has dry heat and during the most humid month of August, the humidity level can reach highs of only 16%. Although the hottest months correspond with peak crowds due to perfect swimming conditions, warm months such as May and September are great for hiking and sightseeing. Winters are mildly cold, January being the coldest month with average lows of 35.6°F (2°C). These temperatures also sway into February which is also a cold month. November has the most rainfall, with average highs of 162mm.  

Before Visiting Rab

Rab is a popular island visited during the summer due to its wealth of beaches, historic and cultural sites, boating opportunities, hiking trails, and small towns. Those that will be spending most time along the shores and making the most of the sun and beaches should be sure to bring sun cream, a hat, swimwear, and clothing that keeps the body cool. Some of the beaches may be pebbled or rocky so for children in particular, water shoes may be required. For activities such as hiking, sightseeing, or just exploring inland, comfortable shoes are a must, as well as suitable clothing and suncream. A backpack, a hat, and some sunglasses may also come in handy. 

Festivals & Special Days in Rab

There are many cultural, historical, and sports events that take place in Rab throughout the summer months. RabskaFjera is the oldest summer festival in Croatia taking place in Rab, that pays tribute to King Louis the Great, dating back to medieval times. Every year for two days in July, the festival hosts great feasts, artistic workshops, and knights games. Locals dress up in historic costumes, and the town seemingly goes back in time. During the month of June, another lively annual festival is the Lopar Paradise Kids Festival by Lopar Beach. Events that take place are music, workshops for both adults and kids, and food stalls, perfect for those with young children. For those interested in visual arts, visit the Visual Art Summer Festival found in the town of Rab between June and September. Organized by the University of Rab and the Pik Art Gallery where it is held, this exhibition showcases contemporary art forms including photography, sculpture, paintings and other mediums. 

Nightlife in Rab

Predominantly located around the Old Town of Rab Town, where much of the prominent sites and tourist attractions are based, visitors can find a range of bars, wine bars, pubs and clubs scattered around the island of Rab. The homonymous town attracts both locals and tourists in the evening making for a lively destination for party goers and those looking for a relaxed evening alike. Whether it be frosty cocktails, local wine or craft beers, Rab is home to establishments that can cater to all. 

- Forum Bar

For high quality cocktails using only the best ingredients, look no further. Forum Bar is located in the heart of Rab’s Old Town and sits behind the main promenade, looking out towards the harbor. In a quaint, historic stone building, the bar has a choice of outdoor seating for when the weather is warm. Decorated with high tables and stalls, a dark wooden bar, and dimly lit lamps, the ambiance is warm and inviting. The bar is fully stocked with a selection of local wines and exclusive spirits, whilst the bar staff are fully trained in creating a perfectly balanced drink. 

- Old Town Bar

Just steps away from the Monastery Church of St. Anthony the Abbot and St. Nicholas Church, Old Town Bar is one of Rab’s most popular nightlife joints. Boasting stunning views of the marina, the historical stone building has been converted into a modern entertainment venue. Original features such as the wooden paneled ceiling, timber beams, and stone walls are exposed whilst details like hanging industrial lights, a metal mesh bar, and leather seating groups all merge together making for an inviting atmosphere full of character. They serve a range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks, and are known for their colorful cocktails. 

- Wine Bar Gagliardo 

Providing guests with some of the best selections of wine, Wine Bar Gagliardo is amongst the best locations in Rab Town. The place provides both indoor and outdoor seating in the Old Town's most central location. A warm ambiance is created by dimly lit lamps and wooden tables all within an authentic stone built building, typical of the area. Whilst guests can enjoy charcuterie boards highlighting local delicacies, there are also special sushi nights where a sushi master presents freshly made sushi.

Luxury / Fine Dining Restaurants in Rab

The island of Rab is one of the most popular islands located in the Gulf of Kvarner and has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its gastronomy. There is a wealth of restaurants that can be found around the island, most of which are beside the coast, in particular within the historic town of Rab along the promenade. There are a number of konobas which are local taverns which are highly recommended, as well as other eateries most of which specialize in local Dalmatian and Mediterranean classics. Whether it be freshly cooked seafood on a charcoal grill, slow cooked meat in a wood burning oven, or curated charcuterie boards, there is something on this island for everyone. 

- Konoba Riva

When visiting Rab, visitors must experience one of the local konoba, which are small taverns that serve traditional food from the region. Located in the center of Rab’s historic Old Town just steps away from some of the most visited monuments, Konoba Riva is a charming, original stone build complete with original wooden beams, rustic bench style seating both indoors and outdoors, and views that look out to the marina ahead. Some evenings the restaurant hosts live jazz music in addition to traditional Dalmatian singers.  This restaurant aims to source the freshest ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, butchers, and wineries. Some of the favorites here include stuffed calamari served with swiss chard, mixed fish or meat grills, and mussels in a white wine sauce

- Agatini Vrtovi

Situated by the promenade looking out onto the marina in the heart of Rab town, Agatini Vrtovi is surrounded by history and central to many of the most prominent sites in the town. Part of the Arabiana Hotel, this upscale restaurant invites guests with its elegant interior and warm ambiance, as well as an outdoor seating area that looks out onto the sea and marina. Guests can enjoy their meal with the addition of live music on some evenings. The menu offers a blend of gourmet Croatian and Mediterranean classics such as lossos tortellini in a cheese sauce, grilled freshly caught fish, and prime cuts of beef. 

- Perla Rab

Set south of town center in Banjol, Perla Rab is an elegant restaurant that looks out onto the open sea. Designed with a warm, homey interior, the outside terrace dotted with plants and an olive tree boasts picturesque views and is perfect for watching the sunset. Guests can enjoy a mix of Mediterranean classics such as freshly made seafood pasta and risotto as well as locally caught fish that is cooked on a charcoal grill. 

- Ristorante Feral

Located in the settlement of Lopal north of the island, Feral is a favorite for locals and tourists that visit the area known for its beaches. Just minutes away from the pier and the beach, this family-run restaurant is great for those relaxing in the sun as it has waterfront views with both indoor and outdoor seating. Serving mostly fish with specialties such as roasted octopus, fish soup, and fresh lobster along with some meat and vegetarian options, it is decorated in accordance with a seaside theme, with hanging fish nets, photographs of local fishermen, boat paddles and other ornaments of that sort. Guests can enjoy their meal with a specially selected bottle of wine or local beers. 

- Restaurant Santa Maria

After a long day sightseeing in the center of Rab Old Town, Restaurant Santa Maria is a perfect spot to wind down and enjoy the food and atmosphere it offers. The old stone building sets the scene as visitors walk into a traditionally designed interior complete with crisp white tablecloths and dimly lit lamps, similar to the famous konoba dotted around the island. The evenings are paired with live acoustic music, perfect for a romantic evening for two or a group of friends. Whether it be a dry-aged steak, seafood platters, charcuterie boards, or vegetable dishes, Santa Maria has something to offer all. Visitors can pair their meal with a glass of house wine or a specially mixed cocktail. 

- Konoba Sanpjer

For those looking for a traditional Croatian seafood restaurant that serves local, fresh meals, Konoba Sanpjer is a must-visit location. Situated in the heart of Old Town, this restaurant also serves as a fish market. It is a family-run business set right along the promenade, with seating just steps away from the water below. Visitors can select the exact fish they want from the glass cabinet that presents an array of big and small fish, prawns, squid, and other forms of seafood and have it cooked whichever way they like. The restaurant is equipped with bench style seating inviting visitors with its relaxed atmosphere.