Rab Town

Settled for centuries, Rab Town has the layered feel of a place that has been lived in rather than built for tourists.

History and background

An island known for its four bell towers on the old town skyline. Rab claims to be the birthplace of nudist tourism in Europe, started by King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson in 1936.

Good to know

Rab Town stands in Kvarner & Istria, one of the six regions that make up the Croatia most visitors fall for. From the Adriatic shore to the karst mountains and the quiet inland valleys, this part of the country gives you something worth the detour.

Mornings are quieter and cooler. Most old towns wake up slowly, so an early coffee is worth the effort.

Practical info

• Entry: check the official source before you travel. Prices and opening hours change, and some spots close entirely out of season.
• How to get there: Tap the map above for exact directions. In Croatian towns parking is usually signposted and paid, look for the blue P zones. If you are island hopping, leave buffer time for the ferries.

Best time to visit

Croatia is at its best from May to October. June and September are the sweet spot, warm water, long days, and thinner crowds than high July and August. Winter shows a quieter, cheaper and surprisingly handsome country, especially inland and in the cities.

This is part of an open Croatia library by Photograph by John, real places, real maps, no paywall. Share it if it was useful.