Sightseeing in Rab Island - what to see. Complete travel guide

Located in the Kvarner Gulf, the Croatian island of Rab is considered to be the sunniest place in Europe. It's an ideal resort with fabulous beaches, beautiful nature and unique climatic features. There are no large and bustling cities, even the capital of the island is home to less than a thousand people. Numerous travelers are attracted by small resorts of coastal islands. Back in the late 19th century, wealthy gentlemen enjoyed a vacation on the island; today this attractive place is accessible to everyone.

In addition to the ideal conditions for beach vacation and hiking, the island of Rab is ready to offer its guests a rich excursion program, as its territory includes historical objects of different eras. It's worth to begin the study of the historical heritage with visit to the capital, the town of Rab. There you'll find a well-preserved historic district. The Cathedral of St. Antony is one of the most spectacular historical monuments. It was built in 1175 and has kept a lot of the primeval elements. The Cathedral houses priceless religious artifacts.

Nearby there is the beautiful Church of St. Mary, whose high bell tower is visible from almost all the streets of the Old Town. It's definitely worth a visit the St. Andrew Monastery that was a witness to many important historical events. One of the most interesting points of the excursion program is the Cathedral of St. Justina; it's of great value from an architectural point of view. Currently, the walls of the cathedral house the Museum of Religious Art. The variety of the exhibits presented here is simply amazing; the age of some of them is more than a thousand years. Walking through the picturesque streets of the historic district, you can see amazing buildings of different eras. Those are magnificent palaces in the Renaissance style, small houses and part of the medieval fortifications. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Nature lovers should definitely look into the Komrcar Park, a favorite place of recreation for residents and visitors. Many rare plants, including Italian poplar and Indian figs grow there; the special area is assigned exclusively for herbs. Those fond of history will like the nearby archaeological park, which is now available to all interested. There you can see the ruins of ancient defensive towers and a Romanesque chapel, as well as several old churches.

Art-lovers won't be bored too; they have to visit the island's capital in summer. The fact is that in summer the town streets resemble a large-scale art gallery and artists from all over the world come there looking for inspiration. The capital's archaeological area is not the only one on the island. Fans of exploring historical sites are recommended to visit the village of Lopar. Scientists have discovered there the ruins of an ancient fortress that have protected the island more than 2,500 years ago. The village of Lopar is famous for its unique natural attractions too; it's surrounded by incredibly beautiful pine forests. Fans of event tourism should go on a trip in early May and late July, as annual jousting tournaments are held on the island. Rab is a rare and very harmonious blend of natural beauty, rich cultural traditions and great historical heritage.

The island has both sandy and pebble beaches, so absolutely all travelers will easily find suitable areas that fit their taste. Rajska remains the most popular sandy beach. Located near the settlement of Lopar, this beach is more than 2,000 meters long. The coastal area is well-developed and so tourists will find numerous hotels, restaurants, and entertainment complexes nearby. Pudarica Beach, which is located in the neighborhood of Barbate, has fine pebble surface. There are always many vacationers with children on this beach, as well as fans of snorkeling. Because there is no sand, water is exceptionally clear on the beach, and the pine forest nearby makes this pebble beach even more attractive.

The most famous nudist beach in the region, Kandalora, is located not far from Palit. It is important to mention that this beach became one of the first nudist beaches in Croatia, and it has managed to keep its popularity and honorable statues through decades. One of the most romantic beaches of the region is located not far from the village of Supetarska Draga. It is located in the northern part of the island, at a miraculously beautiful bay. There are several interesting historical landmarks not far from the beach.