by croatiaweek
December 3, 2025
in
Makarska
ZAGREB, 3 December 2025 (Hina) – Makarska has been named one of the three finalists for the prestigious “European Capitals of Small Retail” award for 2026, the city announced on Tuesday.
The recognition places Makarska among Europe’s leading small cities and towns driving sustainable and innovative urban development.
The award, launched by the European Commission, highlights towns with up to 50,000 residents that are redefining support for small retailers, craftspeople and entrepreneurs.
The category, known as “Leaders”, acknowledges places that are pioneering new development models and opening pathways for innovation.
According to the European Commission, Makarska “serves as an example of a town that has successfully transformed its perception of space, economy and everyday urban life in a short period of time”. This assessment helped position Makarska among Europe’s top three small cities/towns.
Makarska earned its place in the final thanks to a comprehensive approach to revitalising its historic Old Town. The city combined targeted infrastructure investment, supporting job creation, with a wide array of “soft” measures designed to stimulate local entrepreneurship and strengthen cultural and tourism offerings.
The application highlighted several key projects contributing to the Old Town’s renewed vibrancy.
These included the reconstruction of key streets, urban greening and improved cleanliness, as well as incentive schemes such as the “Lokale u kale” programme and educational panels for entrepreneurs.
The development of the HEPICENTAR coworking space, the introduction of the Điro circular city transport service, the Maestrale cultural programme and the “Moja Makarska” mobile app were also noted for enhancing everyday life and business activity.
Makarska
The European Capitals of Small Retail (ECoSR) initiative, created at the request of the European Parliament, rewards cities that have excelled in revitalising their centres, supporting small businesses and successfully navigating digital and green transitions.
Three finalists have been selected in each category. Alongside Makarska, the small cities category includes Silandro (Italy) and Silla (Spain).
In the category for large cities with more than 250,000 residents, Barcelona and Zaragoza in Spain, along with Utrecht in the Netherlands, have reached the final round.
All finalists, including Makarska, will take part in a panel in Brussels on 28 January next year, where the winners of the 2026 awards will be announced.