Location & Transportation
The ships will anchor offshore, facing the medieval center of Rab, and tenders will bring you right into town. Just a few meters from where you disembark, you’ll be greeted by the sight of massive historic fortifications lining the waterfront.
Nearby Lodging
Rab offers a range of charming guesthouses, small hotels, and boutique accommodations nestled within the winding, stone streets of the old town. I’ve found that booking ahead in the busy summer months is a smart idea to ensure you get a comfortable spot near the action.
Nearest Airport
The closest major airport is Zadar Airport (ZAD), which is approximately 90 km away. From there, you can catch a bus or taxi to the ferry terminal that connects you to Rab.
Sightseeing
Rab is a magical blend of history and nature. As you wander through the town, you’ll encounter centuries-old churches, ancient palaces, and stone-paved streets that tell stories of a bygone era. Venture a little further to see the island’s natural side:
- Explore one of the last oak forests of the Mediterranean on the southwestern side of the island.
- Enjoy panoramic views from the ancient fortifications.
- Stroll along quiet alleys that weave between historic landmarks.
Tours & Excursions
If you have a bit more time to explore, Rab won’t disappoint:
- Take a guided tour of the medieval walls and the 12th-century Romanesque Cathedral.
- Discover Komrcar Park, home to dozens of rare and beautiful trees.
- Hop on one of the several excursion boats along the waterfront.
- For a unique experience, try a taxi boat ride to the FKK Frkanj, a naturist beach at Kandarola just outside of town.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
While Rab is small, its streets are lined with delightful boutiques and local craft shops. I love browsing for handmade souvenirs, locally crafted jewelry, and traditional Croatian artifacts. There are also market stalls selling fresh produce and local specialties—a perfect way to take a piece of Rab home with you.
Dining
Rab’s dining scene is warm and inviting, with plenty of family-run konobas (taverns) and seaside cafés where you can savor authentic Dalmatian cuisine. Be sure to try:
- Fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish and shellfish.
- Local specialties like Pasticada (a slow-cooked beef dish) paired with homemade pasta.
- Traditional Croatian olive oil and locally produced wines.
Seating is often al fresco, letting you enjoy the coastal breezes and scenic views as you dine.
Culture & Local Events
Rab’s local culture is rich and welcoming. Here’s a bit about what you can expect:
- During the summer, the island bursts into life with cultural events such as Rab Summer Festival, featuring music, theatre, and dance performances.
- Many local shops and attractions typically open a bit later in the day, with extended hours in the busy season.
- The official currency is the Euro, which Croatia adopted in January 2023 in place of the Croatian Kuna. Credit cards are commonly accepted in tourist areas, though carrying some cash may be handy.
- Communication is easy in the tourist hotspots; while Croatian is the official language, many locals in service industries speak English.
Safety & Awareness
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas near the ferry terminal.
- As with many historical towns, narrow streets can be uneven, so wear comfortable shoes and take your time exploring.
- Emergency services are accessible by dialing 112.