sibenik croatia travel

Sibenik, Croatia: The Complete Travel Guide

Along Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline lies the town of Šibenik, a true hidden gem that effortlessly blends together rich history and a vibrant atmosphere. With cobblestone streets, captivating architecture, and sparkling blue waters, this coastal town makes the perfect getaway on your Croatia itinerary. Get lost in the many streets that line the hills, explore the ancient buildings, and soak up the sun on the beach — here are all the best things to do in Sibenik, Croatia.

Visiting Sibenik, Croatia

The small and charming Sibenik lies only an hour north of Split , making it the perfect destination for a (half)day trip on your Croatia itinerary. The town’s especially known for its beautiful car-free old town built on a hill. With more than 2.800 steps, it’s famously nicknamed the ‘City of Stairs’, with beautiful stone staircases that lead up between the ancient buildings. 

Though it’s not as busy as Split, the town has an incredible local feeling, with many people out on the lively terraces. With a small harbor, promenade, and some galleries, it’s the perfect place to unwind for a day. Soak up the peacefulness before continuing to other gems in the country, like Krka National Park.

Go on a guided tour from Split or Trogir

Things to do in Sibenik, Croatia

From exploring the quaint old town and stunning beaches to delicious restaurants and a few iconic Game of Thrones locations , there are some great things to do in Šibenik, Croatia. 

1. Explore the Old Town Streets

Step into Sibenik’s old town, a labyrinth of vibrant doors, narrow streets, and endless alleys. No map is needed – getting lost is part of the fun and one of the best things to do in Sibenik! Eventually, every path leads back down to the waters anyways. Explore stairs galore (even more than in Dubrovnik !) as you walk through narrow pathways and along the incredible waterfront. 

Just like many other locations in Croatia, Sibenik inspired the filmmakers of Game of Thrones with its beauty, featuring the town as the mythical city of Braavos in the show. Visit the Museum, explore the Mediterranean Garden at the St. Lawrence Monastery, or go shopping. There are many incredible clothing shops tucked between the streets selling breezy linen items!

End the day with a summer-evening stroll along the postcard-perfect Riva promenade, and enjoy a cocktail or two at one of the lively terraces.

Here are all your hotel options in Sibenik.

2. Medieval Buildings

Perched along the beautiful cobbled streets of Sibenik’s old town, you’ll find some of the finest remains of history. From 4 Venetian fortresses to churches, monasteries, and cathedrals, there are plenty of stone structures to marvel at. 

Start your walk up at the famous St. Michael’s Fortress, from where you can meander down the steps. This route takes you past beautiful courtyards, tiny chapels, and many homes that have stood for centuries.

Also read: Best things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

St. Michael’s Fortress & The Cathedral of St. James

The forts offer some of the most incredible panoramic vistas of the city and the neighboring sea. Barone Fortress up top is the highest, but central St. Michael’s is the most worthy to visit for the views. The fortress is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM and costs 10 EUR (10.90 USD) to enter.  

End your journey in the heart of town, where you’ll find the impressive UNESCO Cathedral of St. James perched along the waterfront. This iconic building is one of Croatia’s most important Renaissance monuments and is featured in Game of Thrones as the ‘Iron Bank’.

Tip: There’s a great restaurant at the St. Lawrence Church and Monastery , only a minute’s walk away from the Cathedral of St. James.

3. Spend Time at the Beach

As it lies on the shimmering coastline of the Adriatic Sea, Šibenik has a few neighboring beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Think clear and cool water, shaded cabanas, and refreshing summer drinks with music playing in the background. 

There are some nice beaches around Sibenik, with most only a short walk or drive out of town. Banj Beach is the one closest, with a small stretch of pebbled beach perfect for just a dip. However, If you’re looking for a relaxing day out, head to En Vogue Beach Club or Shark. Both are only a few minutes drive out of town, making for a lovely yet relaxed beach experience.

We recommend to rent a car in Croatia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

4. Explore the Adriatic Islands

With 78 islands off the coast of Croatia, there is plenty to explore on your Croatia itinerary . From Sibenik, hop on a water taxi and uncover some of the country’s hidden treasures in the sea. Be it the car-free islands such as Zlarin, Zirje, or Prvi or the enchanting Kornati National Park, known for its incredible scenery and crystalline waters. 

Glide through crystal-clear waters to mesmerizing caves and distant isles while the wind blows through your hair. Whether it’s on a Jadrolinija ferry or a guided tour, these peaceful islands offer a refreshing escape from the mainland. Head out, and spend your day snorkeling, swimming, and taking in all the beautiful sights!

5. Visit Neighboring Treasures

It’s safe to say that Croatia holds some of the most incredible sights. From century-old cities and peaceful coastal towns to breathtaking islands and natural treasures like the Plitvice Lakes , there’s much to discover. If the central town of Sibenik is your base in the country, you can easily travel to some of the other highlights of Croatia. 

The quaint coastal town of Trogir is a quiet alternative to bustling Split. With cobbled streets, a beautiful promenade, and many palm trees, it makes a stunning location to visit. Like Šibenik, it’s steeped in history and is known as one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones , with many beautiful castles and houses along the waterfront. 

Discover the best things to do in Trogir, Croatia

Explore the little streets, indulge in delicious fresh cuisine near the water, and go shopping. As most of the things to do are in the tiny old town, wedged between the mainland and Ciovo Island, Trogir makes a great stop for half a day before continuing to other highlights of Croatia. 

If you continue south after visiting Trogir, you’ll quickly reach the beautiful city of Split. Full of architectural gems, lively boulevards, great nightlife, and incredible beaches, this UNESCO port is one of the most popular locations to visit in Croatia. 

Make your way through the cobblestone streets, taking in the beautiful views across the squares and neighboring Adriatic Sea. Go cafe-hopping, taste all the gelato there is, and explore the many Roman remains in the old town before setting sail during sunset. The moment you get to Split, it’s easy to see why it’s such a renowned destination in Croatia!

Read more: Best things to do in Split, Croatia

Krka National Park

Just outside Sibenik, about a 30-minute drive inland, lies a haven of natural artistry – welcome to Krka National Park. From world-renowned waterfalls Skradinski Buk and Roski Slap to many crystal-clear streams, colorful fish, and lush flora, Krka makes the perfect day trip destination from Sibenik. 

Stroll or sail through the park’s tranquil beauty, with many trails and wooden boardwalks leading past the many falls. If you’ve got your own transportation, you can venture off to more remote gems inside the park. Alternatively, organizing a guided tour from Sibenik is a great option, including return transportation and entrance into the park.

Read more: Krka National Park, Croatia

6. Events in Šibenik

Join in on the lively beat of Sibenik, Croatia , by attending one of its vibrant events! The Sibenik International Children’s Festival is held in June, with many streets filled with colorful flags. In July and August, there’s the Sibenik Cultural Summer, offering a taste of local culture and entertainment with live music, 

If you’re visiting outside the peak season in the shoulder months, don’t miss the captivating Medieval Fair in September. With cultural performances and even sword fighting, it’s a beautiful glimpse into the olden days of the stone town.

Best Restaurants in Sibenik

Savor some of the best traditional Croatian delights at one of Sibenik’s many eateries – from cozy cafes to vibrant konobas (small restaurants) and delicious gelato shops. Dive into the rich Mediterranean cuisine that comes to life with local ingredients such as fresh fish, meats, and veggies paired together with olive oil and different spices. Some of our favorite restaurants in Sibenik are: 

• Peperoncino Kitchen & Bar
• St. Lawrence Church and Monastery
• Restoran No. 4
• Ayla Dalmatian Kitchen Lab
• Pa’Kai
• Bava Dining & More
• Pizzeria The Spot
• Pluto’s Burger Bar

How to Visit Sibenik

Because of its central location, Šibenik is an easy destination to get to. There are multiple ways to get to the charming coastal town. The nearest airport is Split Airport, less than an hour away, from where you can drive or bus.

The easiest way to get to Sibenik once you’re in the country is to drive. Renting a car and driving in Croatia is an incredible experience as it offers much flexibility and allows you to explore more off-the-beaten-path. From popular neighboring locations such as Split or Zadar, it’s only an hour’s drive to get to the lovely town of Sibenik, Croatia. 

By Public Transport

The town is very well connected to other bus stations around the country, making it easy to get around if you don’t have your own transportation. However, keep in mind that journeys take longer due to the many bus stops in between locations. 

Browse bus schedules and tickets to Sibenik online

Getting Around

Exploring the beautiful stone alleys, staircases, and UNESCO buildings of Sibenik’s old town can all be done on foot as this part of town is car-free. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere as you browse past authentic little shops and many tavernas full of locals gathering. 

However, we recommend renting a car if you plan to explore more of Sibenik’s surroundings, such as the beautiful nature at Krka National Park or nearby towns like Vodice.

Where to Stay

From charming waterfront hotels with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea to cozy boutique accommodations nestled within the historic streets, the accommodation options in Sibenik are as captivating as the town itself. Because of this, it’s a great experience to stay in town for the night. This way, you also get a glimpse of real traditional life when all day trips have gone. 

Hotels in Sibenik 😴

How Many Days in Šibenik?

Sibenik, Croatia, makes a beautiful destination to visit on a (half)day trip and is often paired with a visit to the iconic Krka National Park. Because of its size, you’ll easily explore all of the main highlights within a few hours. 

However, Sibenik also makes a great base if you’re looking for a quieter central location on your Croatia itinerary. This way, you can also spend a bit longer soaking up the sun on neighboring beaches and get a good feel for the local town life.

Also read: Best things to do in Brac, Croatia

Budget for Sibenik, Croatia

Costs vary based on your travel style and preferences, but traveling to Croatia is generally quite affordable. With great accommodation options, local transportation, meals at local tavernas, and fun activities, expect to spend about 50 – 100 USD per day in Sibenik, Croatia.

Costs of Traveling in Sibenik

Travel on a budget in Sibenik, from $250 − $480 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1010 − $1670 USD, and high-end from $1580 − $2160 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $80 − $150 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $50 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $5 − $50 USD
• Activities: $5 − $50 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

The best time to explore Sibenik, Croatia, is between late spring and early fall when the weather is nice and warm and the skies clear. This is when the town’s views are the most stunning, and activities like sunbathing on the beach are the best. 

Visiting during the peak summer months (June – August) is a great time, too. During this time, the town bustles with different festivals and events. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest and most costly period to visit Croatia. 

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Krka National Park, Croatia: Travel Guide to the Waterfalls

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How to Spend a Perfect Day in Šibenik Croatia

If you are planning to visit Croatia , make it a point to visit Šibenik, a must-see for Game of Thrones fans! This guide will show you the best things to do in Sibenik Croatia in one day, as well as some tips on where to eat in Šibenik, how to get to Sibenik and other useful tips. Sibenik in Croatia is filled with plenty of exciting things to do similar to other popular travel destinations lining the Adriatic Coast such as Split , Zadar and Dubrovnik . I’m sure you” ll find your visit to Šibenik quite an adventure.

Why Sibenik is worth visiting?

Quick few facts,.

• Sibenik is the only city in the region to have been discovered by native Croats, unlike other cities in Dalmatia which were found by other cultures.
• Sibenik was the first city in the world to supply electricity to its population over 100 years ago, through an electric system at Krka River which was devised by the Croatian, Nikola Tesla.
• Fans of UNESCO World Heritage Sites will be glad to know that Sibenik is one of the few cities in the world to host two monuments. The Gothic and Renaissance-styled St James Cathedral and the oldest monument in town, St Nicholas Fortress , are both on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Game of Thrones fans will be glad to know that Sibenik features as a background to 3 episodes in Season 5. The Cathedral of St James is the setting for the Iron Bank in the City of Bravos.

Let’s dive right in! Here is a list of our suggestions for what to do in Sibenik in one day. 

Top Rated Things to Do in Sibenik

1. admire the cathedral of st james, price: €6.50.

The Cathedral of St James , also Sibenik Cathedral , should be at the top of your list of things to do in Sibenik and a good starting point when exploring the city. You will be able to spot the Cathedral’s dome from a distance as it dominates Sibenik’s Old Town skyline.

Built over 105 years (1431-1536) in Gothic and Renaissance styles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of the best examples of medieval architecture.

Although the Cathedral is not as big as the ones you will find in other European cities, the square it’s built on is really pretty.

There are a few unique things to note about the Cathedral such as its walls which were built entirely of stone with no mortar or other binding material.

On the outside of the walls are 71 sculpted human heads of Sibenik’s residents during the period of the Cathedral’s construction. This was quite remarkable at the time as ordinary people were given recognition for an important development in the city.

Furnishing the Cathedral’s interior are various striking baroque decorations and paintings as well as an intricately decorated baptistery which you shouldn’t miss.

The statute of Juraj Dalmatinac, located on the Cathedral’s square, is another noteworthy feature of St James Cathedral. Juraj was a Venetian sculptor and architect whose contributions to the construction of the Cathedral are said to be the most significant of all.

The Cathedral ticket also gives access to the new Interpretation Centre of St James-Galbiani Palace : an interactive museum that tells the city’s history including the construction of the Cathedral of St James.

The Cathedral ticket also gives access to the new Interpretation Centre of St James-Galbiani Palace : an interactive museum which tells the city’s history including the construction of the Cathedral of St James.

2. Stop by Sibenik Town Hall

Sibenik Town Hall is located directly across from the Cathedral of St James, on the city’s main square, the Square of the Republic of Croatia. It’s a two-storey Venetian-styled building adorned with lovely details all over it and adds a unique element to the medieval square.

Although the Town Hall was rebuilt after it was damaged during World War II, it still resembles the original one which was built while the city was under Venetian rule in the middle of the 16th century.

The Town Hall’s cafe-style restaurant is a perfect place for a coffee break whilst also enjoying the wonderful view of the beautiful square.

Don’t miss checking the square at night if your stay in Sibenik is long because it’s always buzzing with various live performances by local artists.

Popular Sibenik Private Walking Tour

3. Wander Sibenik Old Town

One of the most exciting things to do in Sibenik is to take a simple stroll in the Old Town’s medieval streets. The Old Town is small, but has plenty of interesting things to do that will keep you happy for quite some time.

Sibenik Old Town’s streets are filled with charming old stone buildings and pretty squares which are filled with small boutiques, souvenir shops, modern cafes, restaurants, laid-back bars, museums, old churches and monasteries. The atmosphere in the Old Town is that of a young and laid-back vibe.

It’s impossible to get lost in the Old Town as the streets are well-marked with pointers that will lead you to all the main sights.

4. Attend the International Children’s Festival

Sibenik hosts a two-week-long, International Children’s Festival , every summer offering family and young people-orientated entertainment in the form of cinema, theatre and street performances, art workshops and many other creative activities.

Be sure to time your visit to Sibenik with some of the performances if you’re visiting with kids. The next International Children’s Festival takes place from June 22nd  to July 6 th 2024 . See the schedule here .

5. Tour St Michael’s Fortress

Price: tickets start from €9.95.

Sibenik has four fortresses namely St Nicholas’ Fortress, St Michael’s Fortress, St John’s Fortress and Barone Fortress. Four of them offer a variety of unique experiences, however, I believe St Michael’s Fortress to be impressive and conveniently located.

On show at St Michael’s Fortress is an exhibition of tools and equipment used in the past as well as the history and other fascinating facts about the fortress and the city.

St Michael’s Fortress is huge and offers modern amenities which include a cafe and well-maintained walkways which makes exploration easy and enjoyable. Numerous viewing points around the fortress offer incredible views of Sibenik and the surrounding Adriatic Sea. The atmosphere around St Michael’s Fortress is calm and peaceful.

It’s claimed by many that if St Michael’s Fortress didn’t exist, Sibenik would not be there. The fortress’ position on the hill, overlooking the city centre and bay, offered Sibenik a strong defence across the centuries and allowed it to grow.

In recent times, the top of St Michael’s Fortress has been redesigned to host concerts. It’s quite an exotic venue for a concert.

The easiest way to reach St Michael’s Fortress is through the marked path in the Old Town, but the path is quite steep and might not suit everyone.

6. Relax at the Medieval Mediterranean Garden

The Medieval Mediterranean Garden of St Lawrence Monastery is a little bit hidden in the Old Town, but worth the effort to find. The garden is on the same path that leads to St Michael’s Fortress, so it might be convenient to make a detour either on your way up or coming down from the fortress.

Medieval gardens are rare and Sibenik is the only one of its kind in Croatia. The garden was abandoned for over 100 years and was revived in 2007 maintaining its original medieval theme.

Furnishing the garden are manicured Mediterranean shrubs, flowers, medicinal herbs and a small water fountain. Some of the herbs found in this garden would have been used by the monks as medicine for various ailments during medieval times.

The garden cafe is a perfect spot to relax and retreat from Sibenik’s summer heat.

7. Indulge at Aroma Gelato

If you appreciate a good quality gelato, then, don’t miss a visit to the Aroma Gelato Experience Boutique in the Old Town. Aroma Gelato Boutiques are found throughout Croatia, however, their Italian-style ice cream and sorbet are marketed as high quality, handmade using fresh, natural ingredients without additives and served with freshly baked cones.

Aroma’s gelato is presented neatly, it’s rich, creamy and tastes authentic. You can enjoy classic flavours such as pistachio bronte and hazelnut Piemonte or exciting combinations like mascarpone with dates and walnuts or mascarpone with figs and pistachios. Try the vegan extra dark chocolate for a delicate chocolate fix or the mango sorbet to stay cool from the sweltering heat.

8. Stroll Sibenik’s promenade

Sibenik’s promenade is very attractive and was one of the main reasons I fell in love with the city, so be sure to check it out. You will be pleased to know that the promenade is not as busy as in other cities along the Dalmatian Coast.

Sibenik’s promenade is a perfect place for a stroll while taking in the beautiful views of the striking Adriatic sea along with those of the gorgeous Old Town. The nice cafes, restaurants, bars and the Cathedral of St James, all add an elegant vibe to Sibenik’s promenade.

Sibenik is a walking-friendly city because it’s mostly pedestrianised. The promenade and the Old Town are a stone’s throw from one another, so it’s quite enjoyable being able to walk from the Old Town to the promenade on a whim for a cool breeze.

Check Sibenik Museums

The list of museums in Sibenik that are worth checking to explore Sibenik’s rich history and cultural heritage includes the Šibenik City Museum , the Museum of St Francis , the new Interpretation of St James -The Civitas Sacra Integrated Program and the Museum of Sacral Arts – St. Barbara.

However, if your time in Sibenik is limited, I highly recommend you visit these two: the Museum of St Francis or the Church of St Barbara- Museum of Sacral Arts . Both museums are small but very engaging.

9. Explore the Museum of St Francis

Price: accepts a small donation.

We stumbled upon the Museum of St Francis by chance and it turned out to be quite a pleasant experience. The museum is located in a beautifully landscaped courtyard in the monastery of St Francis, at the entrance to the Old Town and close to Gradski Park.

The museum’s library houses a huge collection of valuable rare religious manuscripts and books from far back as the 13th century together with religious artefacts and paintings belonging to the Franciscan monks.

The shrine of the first Croatian Saint, St Nikola Tavelic, a Franciscan missionary who was martyred in Jerusalem in 1391 is also located at the museum.

10. Stop by the Church of St Barbara-Museum of Sacral Arts

The small Gothic Church of St Barbara – Museum of Sacral Arts , known locally as the younger sister of the Cathedral of St James, is also worth a quick look when exploring Sibenik.

It’s hard to believe that this church was built around the 15th century because it looks good as new. Furnishing the church’s exterior beautifully is a belfry, a big 24-hour clock and a statue of St Nicholas.

The Museum of Sacral Arts in the church displays a collection of religious art, manuscripts and other various artefacts.

11. Sample Dalmatian cuisine at the Dalmatian Ethno Village

Sampling Dalmatian food at the Dalmatian Ethno Village is a lovely way to wrap up your visit to Sibenik. Dalmatian Ethno Village is 7km away from the Old Town in Amadria Park Resort, so it’s not conveniently located, but worth checking out, especially if you are a fan of farm-to-table.

Dalmatian Ethno Village produces most of the food served in its restaurant and all the dishes on the menu are prepared using traditional Croatian methods of cooking. You can gorge on Dalmatian delicacies such as Pasticada, Peka, barbecued meats and homemade prosciutto, all served in a typical Croatian village setting.

There are plenty more places to dine in Sibenik suited to all pockets and tastes. Pelegrini , located adjacent to the Cathedral of St James, is a highly rated Michelin Star restaurant that’s famous for excellent modern Croatia cooking using locally sourced produce. It’s a very popular restaurant in Sibenik, so if you plan to visit, make your reservation well ahead.

Pa’ Kai , located in the Old Town, is another excellent spot perfect for grabbing fresh and flavoursome Asian-style dishes (vegan-friendly). They do amazing steamed bao buns, a variety of poke bowls and a good selection of craft beers.

Tip: : Here is a guide with all the Best Places to Visit in Croatia including the most useful tips.

I hope you enjoy Sibenik as much as we did! Let me know if you need help, will be glad to help.

Sibenik Croatia FAQ

Is sibenik a good holiday destination.

Sibenik is a lovely holiday destination on beautiful Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Its Old Town is a friendly and laid-back place, with an incredible history. Sibenik is a getaway to some of Croatia’s most gorgeous islands which are perfect destinations to get away from it all.

How to get to Sibenik Croatia ?

Sibenik is located about 60km north of Split Airport and 85km south of Zadar Airport, so these are the two closest airports to fly into to get to Sibenik and other destinations within Knin County. You can also easily visit Sibenik as a day trip from Zadar , Split or Trogir .

We visited Sibenik during our amazing road trip around the Dalmatian Coast. We highly recommend you hire a car as it will allow you to explore more of Sibenik’s beauty. We’ve rented cars from XLRent a Car and highly recommend them.

Related : Zadar Travel Tips for First Time Visit

How to get to Krka National Park from Sibenik?

The best way to get to the waterfalls at  Krka National Park  is to drive (13km) or go by bus from Sibenik bus station to the park’s entrance in the town of Skradin. Krka National Park runs a boat service that takes visitors from Skradin to Skradinski Buk Waterfall, the largest of Krka waterfalls.

Popular Krka National Park Tours

Which islands to visit from Sibenik?

The most popular nearby islands that are perfect for day trips especially if you enjoy outdoor adventures are Murter’s Island -starting point for most tours to the famous Kornati National Park . Zlarin, Krapanj, Žirje, Kaprije, Obnjan and Zmajan are all popular day trip destinations near Sibenik which you can reach using the ferries from Sibenik Ferry Port.

Popular Kornati Islands Day Tour 

What are the best Sibenik Croatia beaches?

The Blue Flag, Banj Beach , located to the south of Sibenik Old Town, close to St Anthony Channel, is one of the best public and easily accessible beautiful beaches in Sibenik Croatia.

What are the fun things to do with children in Sibenik?

The water theme park known as AquaPark Sibenik at Amadria Park Šibenik is one of the most popular attractions in Sibenik for families. However, this waterpark is more suited to younger children since the pools are quite shallow. Families with older children will find the waterfalls at Krka National Park much more enjoyable though swimming is no longer permitted in the park.

Boat tour operators can be found on Sibenik’s waterfront if you’re interested in a private tour of the islands or a day trip to some of the incredible Croatian national parks and true natural wonders such as Plitvice Lakes National Park .

Where to stay in Sibenik?

See Sibenik hotels, private accommodations, campsites and hostels recommendations by the tourist board here .

Related : How to Spend 7 Days in Split , Dubrovnik

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Sibenik Croatia: The Ultimate Guide

Sibenik is the Venetian gem of the Croatian coast. This (generally bypassed town) offers incredible history, architecture, views, and the perfect proximity to a plethora of adventurous opportunities. Sibenik is home to 46,000 permanent residents, which creates more of a small-town vibe than its neighboring cities but still offers plenty of entertainment for tourists.

This small city is quite the celebrity, however, and acted as the city of “Braavos” on the popular HBO show, Game of Thrones. This has made Sibenik a popular destination for fans of the show to see some of the locations and attractions that were used for filming, such as St. James Cathedral and St. Nicholas’ Fortress. 

This 11th-century city is uniquely beautiful and differs in architecture from the neighboring cities of Zadar and Split.  Sibenik was passed back and forth a bit between the Venetians and the Ottoman empire but was generally under Venetian control until the 19th and 20th centuries, when it was under the control of various European countries and different monarchies. It wasn’t until the 1940s that it became part of Yugoslavia, which would disassemble a few decades later, and Sibenik would eventually become 100% Croatian. 

Sibenik is the perfect destination to beat the tourist hot spots and enjoy more of the local leisures. Most people will flock to the likes of Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik, but few will take the time to slow down and experience Sibenik. So why not bypass the crowds and have this seaside city to yourself?!

Table of Contents 👇

The Ultimate Guide to Sibenik Croatia

Where is sibenik, croatia.

Sibenik is located almost exactly halfway between Zadar and Split on the Dalmatian coast. Sibenik actually beats Dubrovnik in population size (just by a couple thousand) as the 3rd largest city in Dalmatia, behind Split and Zadar. 

Sibenik is along the coast but is actually at the mouth of the meandering Krka river, where the famous Krka waterfalls flow into. This river meets the Adriatic in Sibenik in a beautiful harbor-like basin where ferries, sailing boats, and fishermen congregate. 

Like most of the Dalmatian coastline, you’ll find dozens of islands, inhabited and uninhabited, off the coast of Sibenik. This archipelago of Islands offers incredible blue-green bays and rocky coastline, perfect for day trips from Sibenik, which we’ll explore in this guide in detail.

Traveling to Sibenik

Sibenik is conveniently located smack dab in the middle between Zadar and Split and is easy to get to by car, bus, or plane.

How to Get to Sibenik by Car

You can get to Sibenik easily if you are renting a car in Croatia or if you have your own vehicle. Sibenik is located just off the E65 Motorway, which extends down the entire length of the Dalmatian coast. So whether you are coming from Dubrovnik or Zadar, you can eventually reach Sibenik by following the E65. 

If you prefer a scenic route, you can take the D8 highway, which extends all the way from the Slovenian border and ends in Montenegro. This highway, “Jadranska Magistrala,” passes through every major Dalmatian coastal town and will offer plenty of beautiful views along the way. Although this road is a bit smaller than the major motorways, it offers plenty of opportunities to explore seaside villages and stop for photo ops if you’re happy to travel at a slower pace.  

From both Zadar and Split, it takes one hour to reach Sibenik by car.

How to Get to Sibenik by Bus

Bus links are widely available in Croatia. In Dalmatia, buses are pretty popular for locals and tourists to travel between cities. Hence, it’s a good idea to buy tickets in advance online from Flixbus or from the major bus stations if you are anticipating a bus trip.

From Split, you can travel to Sibenik by bus in 1 hour and 30 minutes by Flixbus, or in approximately 2 hours through the local buses. Flixbus offers three direct routes to Sibenik daily from Split, in which you will not have to get off and change buses. If you travel by local bus, you will likely have a stopover in Perkovic, where you change buses. 

From Zadar, there are a few more frequent services to Sibenik, with Flixbus offering five daily direct trips to Sibenik and frequent journeys by local operators. When traveling from Zadar, you will generally not have to change buses, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to get to Sibenik.

How to Get to Sibenik by Plane

Sibenik does not have an airport but is easily accessible from both Split airport and Zadar Airport. That being said, it’s actually a bit better to reach Sibenik from Split airport. Resnik Airport (Split’s International airport) offers more options for international flights and hosts a larger variety of budget airlines such as Easyjet, Jet2, and Norwegian Airlines.

Split’s airport is actually closer to Sibenik, as the airport is located on the north side of Split. 

The most direct route to Sibenik is to fly into Split, pick up your rental car from the split airport, and be on your way!

Where to Stay in Sibenik

Sibenik has a vast variety of accommodations available to visitors. From luxury hotels to boutique rooms, there are all kinds of hotels suited to all types of travelers.

The Best Luxury Hotel in Sibenik

If you’re looking for premium accommodation with some of the best views, design, and service Sibenik can offer, then D-Resort is your place. This 4-star resort lives on the end of the peninsula across the harbor from the Old Town and is essentially a city on its own. D-Resort offers a fine dining experience on the top floor of the hotel as well as 4 bars and lounges, a full-service spa, a gym, and two swimming pools with incredible sea views. This hotel is only open to the public from the end of April each year through the summer season, but the sea view villas are available in the winter months.

The Best Midrange Hotel in Sibenik

Medulic Palace Rooms and Apartments is an elegant accommodation located in the heart of Old Town and makes for the ultimate midrange accommodation in Sibenik. This hotel is quaint, quirky, and one of the most booked hotels in Sibenik. This is partly due to its prime location, comfortable pricing, and charming interior/exterior. Medulic Palace includes the city’s traditional stone walls in the design of their rooms and common areas, which is a vibe on its own. They also incorporate the famous Dalmatian Lavender scent and colors throughout, which really says “welcome to Croatia.”. 

The Best Budget Accommodation in Sibenik

Elegance meets budget at Hostel Splendido . Hostels are almost always the best option for travelers looking to stay on a budget and meet fellow travelers, and Hostel Splendido is no exception. This hostel offers an incredible location near the beaches and just 200 meters from the center of the Old Town. If you are looking to relax, there is a beautiful shady outdoor terrace furnished with armchairs and tables and an on-site bar where you can relax with a refreshing beverage or mingle with other residents. The Hostel offers both dorm-style rooms and private rooms.

The Best Apartment Accommodation in Sibenik

If you prefer to sink into your own space at the end of a long day of exploring, then you will love staying in your own private apartment at The XY Suites – Boutique Apartments in Sibenik. These luxury apartments bring the best of Sibenik indoors with their stone-walled interior, cozy corners, and Venetian-styled furniture. Each apartment suite has a living room with a flat-screen TV, dining area, full kitchen, washer and dryer, 2 or 3 bedrooms, and private bathrooms. The establishment has communal outdoor garden and terrace areas, and some apartments have a private terrace. The XY Suites are also a 6-minute walk to the beach and a stone’s throw away from Old Town. 

Pro Tip: Booking is the most common platform for finding accommodation in Croatia .

What to Do in Sibenik

Sibenik is filled with cultural activities, architectural beauty, and nearby incredible national parks and scenery. There are endless activities to partake in when you visit Sibenik, but these are the ten best things to do in Sibenik.

Wander the Old Town

Some of the structures in this old town date back 1000 years, so to wander aimlessly through these streets is an adventure on its own. Almost entirely built out of stone, you’ll enjoy the serene atmosphere of mounted flower pots along the walls of narrow alleyways, colorful doors leading into boutique shops, and lively restaurant terraces filled with locals and visitors alike laughing and mingling over a shared meal. You can spend an entire day just wandering, shopping, and bar/restaurant hopping.

Visit St. James Cathedral 

No trip to Sibenik would be complete without a visit to the Cathedral of St. James. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was constructed between 1431 and 1535 and uniquely was designed with Northern Italian, Dalmatian, and Tuscan influences. Three different architects oversaw the design of this Cathedral during its construction. The cathedral is known to be uniquely decorated with the sculptures of 71 faces of men, women, and children, reminiscent of the structure’s gothic and renaissance influences. The Cathedral of St. James was also used as a set in Game of Thrones and is a popular site for fans of the show.

Check Out the Four Fortresses

Sibenik is unique in that there are four different fortresses located across the city. St. Michael’s Fortress, Barone Fortress, St. Nicholas’ Fortress, and St. John’s Fortress. Each structure has a unique history and was constructed between the 15th and 17th centuries. Geographically, the fortresses create a diamond shape around the old town city, as they were used as a point of defence to protect the city. When you visit each fortress, you may notice St. John’s is considerably smaller than the rest. The Venetian council could not afford to allocate the funds to build a new fortress to defend against the Ottomans, but the council allowed the citizens of the city to build it themselves, which they did in a rapid 58 days. Building an entire fortress whose remains still stand today in just 58 days, shows the pride and drive behind the people of Sibenik; an aura that is still reflected in its citizens today. 

Relax On the Beaches

Sibenik is widely known for its jaw-dropping beaches. Beaches in Sibenik, Croatia, have incredible clear turquoise waters, sand or pebbled white shores, and ideal proximity to the city center. Each beach around Sibenik has its own individual qualities, and there will be a beach somewhere in the Sibenik area fit for each kind of beach-goer. Whether you’re looking for watersports at Rezaliste Beach, sipping on cocktails at the beach bar at Banj Beach in the Old Town center, or enjoying the aquamarine serenity of Velika Raduca Beach a bit outside of the central city area, there is something for everyone. 

Stroll On the Riva

Split is not the only Dalmatian city with an impressive waterfront promenade. The Riva (promenade) in Sibenik is a stunning spot for an afternoon stroll. Gaze at the incredible yachts docked and hop between the restaurants that line this seaside walkway. The Riva hosts impressive Palms and is a great place to sit for a while and watch the world go by. On the Riva, you’ll have impressive views over the harbor and will enjoy watching the boats come and go as the sun sets. 

Game of Thrones Kayaking & Walking Tour

Does Sibenik Croatia look familiar to you? You might recognize the city from the hit HBO show Game of Thrones. Braavos is actually Sibenik Croatia in Game of Thrones. Most visitors to Croatia will flock to Dubrovnik to feel the atmosphere of Westeros, but you can embrace a similar feeling in Sibenik. You can look up the filming locations to scout out while visiting, including St. James Cathedral, which acts as the Iron Bank in the show, and St. John’s Fortress. However, it’s best to get the proper experience and go on an organized tour to see the sites and hear about which buildings played different parts in the series. Find out more about the tour here .

Island Hopping 

If the likes of Hvar, Korcula, and Vis are out of reach on your trip to Croatia, try doing a bit of island hopping around the Sibenik archipelago. You can choose to travel by car and hop on a car ferry across to two of the islands that support vehicles which are Kaprije and Zirje, or board a passenger ferry to the other Islands that don’t allow cars but always support traveling by foot.

Each island offers unique activities and villages. For example, Zirje Island is known for awe-inspiring beaches that are great for snorkeling and predominant fish restaurants serving up the local catch. Kaprije Island is a fantastic place to explore wine from local vineyards, Zlarin Island for water-sports, and Prvic Island for quaint villages and cozy restaurants. Since the islands are between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours from Sibenik, you can spend several days visiting each island or try to fit multiple Islands into one long day trip.

Ziplining in Cikola Canyon

Looking for an adrenaline rush during your trip to Sibenik? Why not try ziplining in the Cikola Canyon . This canyon is 130 meters deep (yikes). When you zipline here, you may start at heights of around 120 meters. You can choose courses with lengths of 200, 500, and 650 meters in length and zip through the air at 70 kilometers per hour. This is not for the faint-hearted, but the views will surely make this ride worth it.

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Day trip to Krka National Park

Sibenik is the closest large city to Krka National Park and the Krka Waterfalls. This famous park is known for its cascading falls spilling blue-green water into pools below. You can visit the national park by means of your own car or through an organized tour that departs from Sibenik.

On this day trip, pack a picnic lunch, some sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, and good slip-resistant shoes to wear while you’re hiking around the falls. It’s important to take note however, that the park no longer allows visitors to swim in the waterfalls. But you can still enjoy the incredible views of the falls and revel in the natural scenery.

Kornati National Park

Kornati National Park is actually made up of a series of 89 islands (YES, 89!) and is commonly known as a sailor’s paradise. On a day trip to this National Park , you will sail with a tour around the islands and admire the incredible blue bays. There are over 22 different tour operators running tours at different prices with different services included. Most of the tours will include the cost of the national park admission ticket in the price of your tour. Make sure to check with your tour operator if there will be snorkeling opportunities and if snorkel gear is provided or if you need to bring your own.

Final Thoughts on Sibenik Croatia

Sibenik offers incredible opportunities for exploring and sightseeing. Whatever activities and tours you choose to embark on, you’ll surely be eager to plan your next trip back. 

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Croatia Travel Planning Guide

💸 What is the currency in Croatia? As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia ). 🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia? Croatian is the official language of Croatia . Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app ! 🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance? 10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it . You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day. 📱 Will my phone work in Croatia? Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo . Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia! 🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations? For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site. 🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights? I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. 🚗  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia? Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here ) 💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia? Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink , so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! 🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia? Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.

Fueled by her passion for travel and her Croatian heritage, Olivia left the USA in 2014 to study abroad in Croatia where she has been living ever since. She founded Inspired by Croatia to share travel tips, destination guides, and exclusive local insights about the country she now calls home.

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As Dalmatia's   least touristed coastal city, Sibenik (pronounced She ben ik ) makes a good stop for those seeking an authentic Dalmatian experience in one of Croatia's most historic towns. Located roughly halfway between Split and Zadar , Sibenik is the capital of Sibenik-Knin county and near two national parks: Kornati Islands and Krka Waterfalls .

The city stretches along the estuary of the Krka river and St Anthony Channel with the Sibenik Channel and the Sibenik archipelago in the distance. (See Sibenik on a map of Dalmatia ) The medieval town center is a well-preserved urbanscape of graceful squares and winding stone streets that climb up to three hilltop fortresses. There are tons of things to do in Sibenik but by far the most magnificent sight is the the Cathedral of St James (Sv Jakov), a World Heritage Site. It's worth a detour just to see it. St Nikola Fort is a new World Heritage Site just out of town that is being spruced up and readied for visits.

Sibenik is more of a cultural destination than a beach destination (although there are a few good beaches out of town) but between 24 churches, six monasteries, museums, an aquarium and four fortresses there's a lot of culture to experience. For natural beauty it's easy to day trip to one of the offshore islands , the resort town of Vodice or Krka Waterfalls National Park.

Things to Do in Sibenik

Visit the Cathedral of St James

Built entirely of stone without wooden supports and adorned with 71 sculptured friezes of incredible individuality, this 15th-century cathedral reflects a marriage of Italian and local styles. The great Dalmatian builders, Juraj Dalmatinac and Nikola Firentinac did most of the work and successfully fused Gothic and Renaissance styles. The Saint James ( Sveti Jakov ) Cathedral became a World Heritage site in 2000 and was recently used as a set in the television series, Game of Thrones . Read more about St James Cathedral.

Have a Drink in the St Lawrence Monastery Garden

Right in the center is a beautifully renovated medieval garden located in the monastery of St Lawrence (Sv Lovre). Although neglected for a century, this garden renovation was designed by award-winning landscape architect Dragutin Kiš, who followed the traditional  medieval layout: a cross path with a small well at its centre. The entire garden is enclosed by bushes and old scented roses. At the centre  is a collection of decorative thyme. As it is part of a monastery,visitors can also visit the Gospina Spilja (“Cave of the Lady”) and the St Lawrence Church, both part of the St Lawrence monastery.

Tour the Four Forts Before there was Sibenik the city, there was Sibenik the fort-city. The high hills looming over today's Sibenik made ideal lookout posts. The first three forts are easy to visit by foot from the town center while St Nikola fort is only accessible by boat. An admission ticket of €7 includes access to the St Michael's, Barone and St John forts.

St Michael's Fort

Perched on a hill 60m above sea level, St Michael's fort has been lavishly restored and now includes an open-air theatre that has become the center of Sibenik's cultural life. (Find the concert program here ) It was in this ancient fort that Sibenik's history began and a series of panels explains its importance from prehistoric tribes to the Romans and Venetians. Don't miss the well-preserved water cisterns. Theoretically a garrison of 40 soldiers could hold out for a year with this water supply except that the water was frequently contaminated.

Barone Fort

Opposite St Michael's fort on Vidakusa hill, Barone and nearby St John's fortress were quickly erected in response to an emergency. In the summer of 1646, the Ottomans were on the march and a frightened populace demanded that the Venetian government protect them. Both forts were constructed during August and September and did the job they were built to do: defend against the Turks. In the battle of Candia, Baron von Degenfeld, a German in Venetian service, led the defense. In addition to magnificent views, Barone fortress is worth a visit for the innovative virtual reality system that recreates the decisive battle. On summer nights, the fort becomes an open-air cinema showing subtitled art house favourites.

St John's Fort

Only a short walk up the hill from Barone fortress, St John's fort is awaiting restoration. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean greenery growing around the star-shaped structure is pleasantly evocative.

St Nikola Fort

The unusual island fortress of St Nikola is part of the Venetian Defensive System that Unesco has recently inscribed on its list of World Heritage Sites . It was also built in response to the Ottoman threat in the mid-16th century. With its unique triangular shape and sturdy construction, it became the strongest fort on the Croatian coast. A lengthy reconstruction process is now complete and the fortress is open to a limited number of visitors who have purchased a boat tour. To become part of the lucky few, buy tickets online at kanal-svetog-ante.com. The boat leaves from obala Franje Tudjman at Split harbour and includes the services of a multilingual guide.

The best view of St Nikola fort is from St Anthony Channel which protects the western entrance to Sibenik. A short taxi ride takes you to a lovely and tranquil walkway along the sea. Stretching 4.4km the shaded walkway takes you to well-signposted viewpoints over the Sibenik archipelago and several local swimming coves. Explore further and you'll find St Anthony cave which contains a small chapel, an undersea tunnel used by Yugoslav warships and a medieval pier. Not far away is Jadrija beach , a developed beach with concrete platforms and changing cubicles.

Visit Krka National Park

Krka Waterfalls National Park is only a short 30-minute hop by bus or car from Sibenik and offers spectacular waterfalls and Visovac , a 14th-century island monastery. There's even a swimming area under the falls. The entrance to the National Park is at Skradin which is well connected by bus from Sibenik. More .

Eat at Pelegrini

Michelin-starred Pelegrini restaurant is the best restaurant in Croatia and worth a detour to visit. Chef Rudolf Stefan accents farm-to-table freshness and draws on Croatia's varied history to weave together Venetian, Austrian, French and Ottoman influences. The ambiance is pure Sibenik with tables overlooking the cathedral.

If the kids are burned out on cathedrals, take them to the Sibenik Aquarium-Terrarium which happens to be just steps away from the Cathedral. This well-presented collection of fish, reptiles and sea creatures gives a good idea of regional aquatic life. See the Facebook page for details.

Get History at the Sibenik Museum

Housed in the 17th-century palace of the Rector or governor, the City Museum traces Sibenik's history from the 6th century BC to the 18th century. The long opening hours and central location make the museum a convenient way to enhance your understanding of Sibenik. More details at the museum website .

History of Sibenik

Who knows when Sibenik was founded? It's unclear but the town probably dates back to the 9th century when St Michael's fortress was built on a hill. Then came a merry-go-round of Hungarian, Croatian, Byzantine, Venetian, Bosnian and Hercegovinan rulers until Venice bought it outright in 1409. Although attacked by the Ottoman Turks several times, Sibenik never fell and remained part of Venice until 1797. More.

Getting to Sibenik

There are no ferries that connect Sibenik with other coastal destinations but there are plenty of buses.Most of the many daily buses running between Split and Zadar make a stop there and there are frequent buses from Dubrovnik (see the schedule at buses from Dubrovnik ). Buses along the coast are popular and can fill up. An advance booking is recommended for those on a tight schedule. Sibenik is also connected by bus from Zagreb.

Book a bus or car to Sibenik

Accommodation in Sibenik

Tourist information.

The Sibenik tourist office (tel 022-214 411) is in the town centre at Obala Tudjmana 5.

Last updated: January 8, 2024

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Sibenik, Croatia

Last Updated on March 1, 2024 by Natalia

Located on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, the historic city of Sibenik is a gateway to some of the country’s most beautiful spots. The city is around 10 kilometres away from Krka National Park , and only a 2-hour drive from the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park . Sibenik boasts a charming stone walled old town as well as 4 imposing fortresses – one of which is 1 of the city’s 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city’s historic sites have even seen it featured in a number of episodes of the well-loved Game of Thrones TV show. Despite this, Sibenik isn’t too crowded just yet – so make sure to add it to your Croatia itinerary as it’s a great stop between Split and Dubrovnik. If you’re looking for hotels in Sibenik, make sure to check out our article on the best places to stay in Sibenik. Otherwise, everything you need to know is covered in this Sibenik travel guide.

Table of Contents

How to get to Sibenik

Flight – The closest major airport to Sibenik is Split airport, which is located around 56 kilometres away. If flights to Split are pricey for your preferred dates, you may have more luck with flights to Zadar Airport – which is 80 kilometres away from Sibenik.

Upon arrival at either airport, your best option for getting to Sibenik is to rent a car and drive. It’s best to have this arranged in advance so you don’t need to worry about it when you land. Click here to get a car rental quote for your trip.

Bus – Intercity buses are a convenient way to get around Croatia. Wherever you are in the country, you’ll be able to reach Sibenik by bus. Click here to search routes and buy tickets to Sibenik from all over Croatia.

Getting around Sibenik

Sibenik itself is a relatively small city, making it possible to walk between the city centre’s main sights. That being said, we strongly recommend renting a car. It’s the best way to explore the surrounding areas – from national parks to historic towns.

You’ll end up saving a lot of money if you drive between attractions as opposed to paying for tours, and it also gives you the freedom to work to your own schedule. This is particularly useful if you want to arrive early and avoid the crowds at Krka and Plitvice National Parks.

Click here to find the best car rental deals for your trip to Croatia!

Best time to visit Sibenik

The weather in Sibenik, and Croatia in general, is best between June and August as these are the hottest months and have the least rain. As is to be expected though, this is the busiest time of year in Sibenik, so it can be harder to get a good deal on accommodation.

For those wanting to avoid the tourist crowds, the weather is still reasonable in both May and September. You may have a few rainy days but, unless you’re extremely unlucky, it shouldn’t be too bad.

If you’re not worried about cooler weather and rain, Sibenik is a lovely city to visit all year round. The advantage of visiting in the colder months is that the attractions will be a lot quieter so you won’t have to share them with as many other people!

Best things to do in Sibenik

Fortresses – Sibenik is known for its fortresses, and for good reason – the city boasts 4 of them. Particularly impressive is the St. Nicholas’ fortress , which was built at sea with only a narrow path linking it to the mainland. This 16th century fortress was declared as a UNESCO site in 2017, but there is currently no official entrance fee.

If you wish to go inside you’ll either need to visit by boat and go in via the main entrance, or alternatively via land you’ll need to climb a sturdy wooden plank and enter via a window. For the second option you’ll need some strength and a sense of adventure!

To visit Barone fortress and St. Michael’s fortress , you can buy a combined ticket for €13, which gives you entry to both and St John’s Fortress. Barone fortress is 80 metres above the city and offers brilliant panoramic views.

In contrast, St. Michael’s fortress is located right beside the Adriatic Sea and is the oldest monument in Sibenik. From here you get brilliant views of St. James’ Cathedral and orange tiled roofs – similar to those found in Dubrovnik. Personally we preferred the view from Barone fortress, but it’s well worth visiting St Michael’s as well!

St. John’s fortress will be of particular interest to Game of Thrones fans as some of the show was filmed here in Sibenik. This is not to be confused with St. John’s Fortress found in Kotor .

Our travel guide to Sibenik wouldn’t be complete without mentioning these wonderful fortresses!

Krka National Park – One of the best things about staying in Sibenik is its proximity to the beautiful Krka National Park in Croatia. Covering over 100 square kilometres, the park is home to numerous waterfalls, making it an extremely popular place to visit.

The park’s most famous attraction is the majestic Skradinski buk waterfall . What makes this a particularly great spot is that you can swim in the cool yet refreshing water of the falls. Unsurprisingly it can get extremely crowded, so arrive early if you want to have this naturally beautiful spot to yourself.

Our other two favourite spots in the park were Visovac island and Manojlovac slap waterfall. The tiny island of Visovac is home to a monastery first established in 1445, making it a particularly picturesque spot amongst the surrounding nature.

Manojlovac slap is the tallest waterfall in Krka National Park and is surrounded by lovely scenery. Despite this, the waterfall is less visited and a lot quieter than Skradinski buk, but we think it’s well worth the drive!

The entrance price to Krka in 2024 varies from €10 to €40 depending on what time of year you visit. Click here to find out the different prices.

Explore the Old Town – Sibenik’s old town is a perfect place to pass a few hours simply by wandering around the narrow cobblestone streets and is a must do when visiting here. The countless stone walled buildings give Sibenik a charm that you can’t help but enjoy.

It can be a bit of a maze to navigate through, but even if you get lost you’ll find yourself enjoying the city’s historic streets.

The most famous attraction in Sibenik and one of the best things to do is visit St. James’ cathedral , is found in the old town. Constructed entirely from stone, the cathedral is considered the Dalmatian coasts’ architectural masterpiece – earning its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The cathedral’s dome towers above surrounding buildings, making it visible from many viewpoints across the city. If you wish to admire the Sibenik cathedral from the inside as well, there is an entrance fee of €3.

Just outside the old town there’s a statue of Croatian King Petar  Krešimir IV, who it is claimed is the founder of Sibenik  – the oldest native Croatian town. The first mention of Sibenik in history came in 1066, during King Petar’s rule. 

Plitvice Lakes National Park – Perhaps the most naturally beautiful spot in all of Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 waterfalls. Found amidst vast woodland, the lakes are an enchanting turquoise colour with crystal clear waters, which gives a fairy tale feel to the park.

With walking trails throughout, it’s easy to spend the whole day getting lost in Plitvice’s breath-taking nature and a great thing to do from Sibenik.

Although Plitvice is almost 200 kilometres away from Sibenik, it’s possible to drive there in around 2 hours. It may seem like a long trip, but it’s one that is definitely worth it.

Entrance costs between €10 to €40 depending on the time of year you visit. Click here for full pricing information.

Head to the beach – Although Sibenik shouldn’t be your first choice if you’re looking for a beach holiday in Croatia, there are still some beaches to enjoy nearby. The city itself has a small pebble beach with views of the old city, but for the area’s best beaches you’ll need to head further afield.

Taking a walk by Sibenik’s promenade is a lovely way to spend time near the Mediterranean sea and one of the best things to do here.

For everything you need to know about beaches near to Sibenik, check out this article by Croatia Expert .

Day trips – Sibenik is well located if you’re hoping to explore more of Croatia. There are a number of places nearby well worth exploring as part of a day trip, such as Split, Trogir, Skradin and Zadar.

Split is famous for the impressive Roman ruins of Diocletian’s Palace. The name is slightly misleading though, as it isn’t actually a palace. Instead it makes up around half of Split’s old town and is home to bustling streets, restaurants and bars.

It’s definitely worth a visit when in Sibenik, and there’s plenty more to it than just the palace!

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Trogir  is another example of one of Croatia’s many beautiful old towns. With well preserved Romanesque and Renaissance architecture, it’s a great spot to combine with a day trip to Split – which is just 30 kilometres away.

Just 20 kilometres away from Sibenik, lies the pleasant town of Skradin. Many people only visit as there is an entrance to Krka National Park here, but it’s a nice place to visit in its own right. There’s a lovely viewpoint of the area from Turina Fortress if you’re happy to take the relatively short walk up.

An easy day trip to do is to the nearby beautiful Kornati National Park, Get Your Guide offer a day trip around the park .

Our final recommendation for a day trip is to the city of Zadar – around 90 kilometres away from Sibenik. There are a few things to do in Zadar such as visit a number of Roman and Venetian ruins, which make up the city’s old town.

On top of this, there are some more recent quirky additions to the city. Along the waterfront is the world’s first sea organ , which plays musical notes generated from the power of waves below.

Next to the sea organ lies the unique art installation the Greeting to the Sun. This large circle, 22 metres in diameter, absorbs energy from the sun throughout the day and performs a magical, colourful display come nightfall.

Where to eat in Sibenik

Restaurant More – With friendly service and great food, Restaurant More is a must visit when in Sibenik. Located on the waterfront, it’s a great place to enjoy a meal after watching the sunset.

The menu is packed with plenty of options for everyone. If you like seafood then this is the place to come, with a number of tasty options available including an impressive seafood sharing platter. We couldn’t help but come back multiple times throughout our stay.  

Konoba Nostalgija – Although Konoba Nostalgija one of the more expensive restaurants in Sibenik, the quality of the food makes it well worth a visit. While the menu isn’t huge, there’s still plenty of choice available – from meats to salads. Our personal favourites were seafood and pasta dishes, but whatever you opt for you’re sure to enjoy it!

Konoba Dalmatino  – With outside seating in one of the cobblestone streets of Sibenik’s old town, Konoba Dalmatino offers meals in a lovely setting. Prices are extremely reasonable with fish and meats being particularly good choices from the menu.

For other inspiration for visiting Eastern Europe check out our guide to the Albanian Riviera and our Montenegro itinerary.

Please note that some links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This money is used to support this website and cover the costs of keeping it online and free to access!

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Sibenik Croatia Travel Guide: What you need to know before visiting

• Last updated on April 22, 2024

Planning to visit Sibenik? Then this Sibenik Croatia travel guide is for you.

For the past few years, I’ve been traveling around Asia and Europe with my husband. When we lived in Austria, we often went on vacation to Croatia and explored medieval towns.

Sibenik is a hidden gem on the Croatian coast. It has two UNESCO heritage sites and a few shooting locations of Game of Thrones series. But it’s not as crowded as Dubrovnik, so it’s still nice to walk around.

I’ve visited Sibenik, and I’ve spent hours researching about the city before my trip. If you’re coming for the first time, this Sibenik Croatia travel guide will help you.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to get to Sibenik, the best things to do, how to explore the city, as well as food tips.

How to get to Sibenik Where to stay in Sibenik Things to do in Sibenik Where to eat and drink in Sibenik How to get around Sibenik The best time to visit Sibenik

But first, how can you reach Sibenik?

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission (so I can buy vanilla ice on hot days!) , at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

How to get to Sibenik

If you want to fly to Sibenik, you have two options: Split Airport (SPU) or Zadar Airport (ZAD) . Both are about 80 km away from the city.

You can find flights to these airports from many European cities.

Once you land, you can get to Sibenik by bus, taxi, or rental car.

The bus is the cheapest option , costing around 10 euros and taking about an hour and a half.

The taxi is the most expensive option, costing around 80 euros and taking about the same time as the bus.

The upside is that you can enjoy the air conditioning and the privacy.

Rental car is the most convenient option, giving you more flexibility and comfort.

You can get to Sibenik by bus from other Croatian cities, like Zagreb, Split, Zadar, Dubrovnik, and Rijeka.

You can check the timetables and prices on www.buscroatia.com or www.getbybus.com .

The bus station in Sibenik is located near the city center, about 15 minutes walk from the old town.

A bus ticket from Zagreb to Sibenik costs around 20 euros and takes about 4 hours.

If you’re coming from other cities in Europe , check the bus schedule here .

If you prefer driving, you can reach Sibenik by car via the A1 motorway that connects Zagreb and Dubrovnik.

The exit for Sibenik is marked as “Sibenik/Dubrava”.

The toll fee for using the motorway is around 15 euros one way.

You can also take the scenic D8 coastal road, which runs along the Adriatic Sea. It passes through many picturesque towns and villages.

However, this road can be crowded and slow during the peak season.

Another option for getting to Sibenik is by boat. You can take a ferry from Ancona in Italy to Zadar or Split, and then continue by bus or car to Sibenik.

You can also take a catamaran from Split or Hvar to Sibenik, which operates only during the summer season.

You can find more information about the boat schedule on www.jadrolinija.hr or www.krilo.hr .

The boat ride from Split to Sibenik takes about an hour and a half and costs around 15 euros.

• You can use Google Flights or Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Croatia.
• If you are traveling by car, make sure you have enough cash to pay for tolls and parking. Some places do not accept credit cards.
• Be sure to check weather conditions and departure times when traveling by boat.

Where to stay in Sibenik

Like other cities in Croatia, staying in apartments is the better and cheaper option (most of the time) .

If you’re traveling by car, you need to check if there’s a parking lot available.

Here are a few options for budget travelers:

– Karmelita’s place

– Apartmani Mihaela

– Apartments Zara

If you prefer to stay in hostels :

– Hostel Sv. Lovre

– Hostel Globo

Note: those places above are just my recommendations, based on my hours of research online. I didn’t actually stay there. Because our car broke down, we skipped staying the night in Sibenik.

Things to do in Sibenik

Are you interested in history? Or culture? Or you’re more interested in nature?

Depending on your interest (and how long you’re staying), there are a few things to do in Sibenik.

Here are some of them:

1- Walk around the Old Town of Šibenik

One of the first things you should do in Šibenik is to explore its beautiful Old Town. It dates back to the 11th century!

The narrow stone streets, medieval architecture, and cozy atmosphere will amaze you.

2- Check out the Game of Thrones filming locations

Calling all fans of Game of Thrones!

You can check out The Cathedral of St. James , which served as a backdrop for Braavos, the city of the Iron Bank.

(The Cathedral of St. James is also a UNESCO Heritage Site.)

Then you should go visit St. John’s Fortress, which was the scene of the fighting pit in Meereen.

You can walk up from the city center (about 30 minutes) and enjoy the view.

3- Relax on the beaches

If you are looking for some sun and sea, Šibenik has plenty of options for you.

The city has several beaches, both inside and outside its borders, to suit different tastes.

Some of the most popular ones are: Banj Beach , a sandy beach with a stunning view of the Old Town; Jadrija Beach , a pebbly beach with a lively vibe and many facilities; Solaris Beach Resort, a complex of five themed beaches that offer something for everyone.

4- Learn about falcons at Sokolarski Raptor Centre

Sokolarski Raptor Center is a unique attraction. It’s dedicated to educating visitors about these magnificent creatures.

If you’re a fan of birds of prey, you’ll love it.

Here you can see more than 30 species of falcons, eagles, owls, hawks, and vultures. Watch them fly and perform tricks during daily shows!

You can also interact with some of them and take photos with them. The centre is located about 10 km from Šibenik, in a natural setting surrounded by woods and hills.

5- Visit the St. Michael’s Fortress

The St. Michael’s Fortress is one of the four fortresses that protected Sibenik in the past.

It is located on a hill above the Old Town and offers spectacular views of the city and the sea.

You can also enjoy cultural events and concerts at its open-air theater .

6- Discover the Kornati Islands

The Kornati Islands are a breathtaking archipelago in the Adriatic Sea, consisting of more than 140 islands and islets.

You can join a boat tour from Sibenik and explore this unique landscape!

7- Experience the Skradinski Buk Waterfall

The Skradinski Buk Waterfall is a stunning sight. It is part of the Krka National Park , which is easily accessible from Sibenik by boat or car.

You can admire the cascading waterfalls, swim in the clear pools, or hike along the trails.

Recommended activities and tour: Evening Walking Tour Zipline Šibenik – Čikola Canyon Hidden Šibenik – Kayaking Private Boat Trip through Sibenik archipelago

Where to eat and drink in Sibenik

If you’re looking for a place to eat in Sibenik, you’ll be spoiled for choice. You can find all kinds of food in this Croatian city. It has old and new dishes and prices for every budget.

Here are some recommended places to eat in Sibenik, from street food to restaurants.

Konoba Nostalgija : This cozy tavern serves authentic Dalmatian cuisine. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with live music on some nights.

Buffet Simun : If you’re in the mood for some fast and tasty food, head to Buffet Simun.

Pelegrini : For a fine dining experience, Pelegrini is the place to go.

Konoba Marenda : For a taste of local seafood, Konoba Marenda is a good option.

Restaurant Gradska Vijecnica : For a historical and elegant setting, this restaurant is a nice choice.

Gelateria Spalato : For a sweet treat, Gelateria Spalato is a must-visit!

Tips : If you happen to visit Sibenik in September, you can catch the Street Food Festival.

How to get around in Sibenik

Here are some tips on how to get around in Sibenik:

– Walking

Sibenik is not a very big city, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. You can enjoy the charming streets, the old town, and the fortresses by foot.

Just make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring some water, because it can get hot and hilly in some areas.

– Rent a bike

If you want to cover more ground and see some of the surrounding nature, you can rent a bike and cycle around Sibenik.

There are several bike rental shops in the city, and some of them offer guided tours as well. You can also find bike paths along the coast and in the nearby Krka National Park.

– By bus

If you prefer public transportation, you can use the local buses to get around Sibenik.

The bus network is quite extensive and cheap, and you can buy tickets from the driver or at kiosks.

You can also use buses to reach other towns and cities in the region, such as Zadar, Split, or Dubrovnik.

– Take a boat

One of the best ways to enjoy Sibenik is by boat. You can take a ferry or a catamaran to visit some of the nearby islands, such as Zlarin, Prvic, or Krapanj.

You can also explore the Kornati National Park.

– Drive a car

If you want more freedom and flexibility, you can rent a car and drive around Sibenik.

But this option may not suit everyone, as driving in Sibenik can be nerve-wracking and costly.

The traffic can be heavy, especially in summer, and parking can be hard to find and expensive.

You also need to pay attention to the signs and rules, as some roads are one-way or restricted.

The best time to visit Sibenik

If you’re planning to visit this amazing city in Croatia, you would want to know: when is the best time to visit Sibenik?

Well, that depends on what you’re looking for. Here are some factors to consider:

– Weather: If you want to enjoy the sunny and warm weather, the best time to visit Sibenik is between June and August.

These are the hottest months and have the least rain.

You can expect temperatures around 30°C and plenty of sunshine. But, be prepared for some crowds and higher prices, as this is also the peak tourist season.

– Events: If you’re interested in experiencing some of Sibenik’s cultural and musical events, you might want to plan your trip around them.

In July and August, you can enjoy the Sibenik Summer Festival.

And in September, you can join the Sibenik Dance Festival, a celebration of contemporary dance and movement.

– Prices: If you’re on a budget, you might want to avoid the high season and opt for the shoulder or low season instead.

The shoulder season runs from April to May and from September to October, and offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

The low season runs from November to March, and offers cool weather, very few tourists, and bargain prices.

(Please note that some attractions and services may be closed or have reduced hours.)

What’s Next?

If you like Sibenik, or if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you have to visit Dubrovnik. It’s bigger and more crowded than Sibenik, but worth the visit. Check out my article Dubrovnik: all you need to know before visiting!

Pin now, read later!

Angelina Kumayas

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Šibenik Travel Guide: Wonderful Sights & our Tips

Just the sight of Šibenik awakens the greatest holiday feeling: The pastel-coloured houses are nestled tightly against the hill on which the fortress is enthroned. Directly in front of it: The azure blue sea. Šibenik is a Croatian coastal town straight out of a picture book.  

You definitely should not skip a stop off in Šibenik while on a round trip through Dalmatia. We have been guests in Šibenik many times now. Therefore, in this travel guide we let you in on our very best tips for your stay. 

From the main attractions to the best destinations for day trips, right up to our favourite culinary discoveries – you will find all this and much more on our travel blog. 

1. Šibenik in Croatia: Overview of useful info & FAQs

2. the most beautiful sights in šibenik: top things to see, 3. day trip destinations from šibenik: our tips, 4. food & drinks: culinary tips and recommendations , 5. staying in šibenik: our accommodation tip , 6. map: overview of all sights & tips .

What should I expect while on holiday in Šibenik?

Šibenik is a city to fall in love with! In the historical centre of the coastal town there is a labyrinth of winding, romantic alleyways waiting for you where one stone house pushes up against the next. Sometimes the dark alleyways seem to get smaller and smaller until you end up in a spacious, imposing square again. 

The special thing about Šibenik: The town is built on a slope. Therefore, you can let yourself enjoy a spectacular view over the city, the sea and the offshore islands while walking around. Šibenik is the third largest city in Dalmatia. Nevertheless, the centre is comparatively manageable and within just a short time you will have seen most of the spots at least twice. 

If you like historical buildings, you will enjoy Šibenik: Not only because the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, awaits you here, there is something to marvel at on practically every corner. And then of course there is also the imposing fortress high above the city – St. Michael’s Fortress. The climb is worthwhile just for magnificent view alone. 

Also good to know: Šibenik is THE starting point for a visit to the world famous Krka National Park. You can drive there in around 20 minutes from the centre of town. 

Is one day enough to see all the important sights of Šibenik?

Even though we definitely wouldn’t recommend it, you can easily cover all of Šibenik’s important highlights in just a few hours. The historical centre is really quite manageable. Which sights (in our opinion) should definitely not be missed: (We will provide detailed info for each sight further down)

• A visit to the cathedral in the brilliantly beautiful main square
• The climb to St. Michael’s Fortress with a lovely panorama over Šibenik
• A walk (ca. 10 minutes) to the viewing platform close to Banj beach for the most excellent postcard picture
• A drink on the promenade – ideally at sunset

But as always: The more time the better. Šibenik really has an unbelievable amount of flair and there are also so many great destinations for excursions in the surrounding area – above all the world-famous Krka National Park, for which you will need at least half a day. 

So, if you would like to take it easy, then plan to stay at least two, or better yet three or more nights in Šibenik. You will definitely not regret it – promise! 

Is Šibenik a good destination for a beach holiday in Croatia? 

Yes and no. Šibenik is surrounded by some pretty beaches – some of these are even located in the township. However, Šibenik probably wouldn’t be our first choice when it comes to beach holidays. There are simply so many other destinations in Dalmatia that are better for this. We are thinking of places such as the Brač island, the island of Korčula or the Makarska Riviera on the mainland. 

Šibenik is much more of a destination for those interested in culture and enjoying the flair of the coastal town. So, if you like strolls through historic streets, dining in the evening with a view of the sea and maybe taking one or two trips away (gladly also to the beach), then Šibenik is the right place for you. 

Cathedral of St. James 

What a monumental structure! The Cathedral of St. James is the main attraction of the city and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You definitely shouldn’t miss a visit to the cathedral during your stay in Šibenik.

The gigantic sacred building made of marble and limestone literally glistens in the sun. The distinctive dome of the cathedral is also visible from many viewing points in Šibenik. 

You can either marvel at the cathedral from the outside or also, of course, take a visit inside (for a few euros entrance fee). You will find it right in the main square of Šibenik, the Trg Republike Hrvatske, and is hard to miss. 

The historic old town of Šibenik

The cathedral is a wonderful starting point from which to explore the old town of Šibenik. It is best to just let yourself roam a little. We promise: You will be left with a sense of awe. Cobbled streets, romantic courtyards, balconies decorated with flowers – the historic centre of Šibenik is really magical. 

If you want to go to specific places, then here are our tips for the most beautiful sights and our favourite places in the old town. Don’t worry – they are all located just a stone’s throw away from one another. You can find a map with all the highlights at the end of this blog article. 

• Cathedral of St. James:  The city’s main attraction. You can find info about this in the chapter above.
• Main square (Trg Republike Hrvatske ) :  The cathedral is located right in the (very impressive) main square, therefore you will be here anyway. You can find some buildings worth seeing in the main square including the Civic Loggia (now the town hall) and the small Loggia. 
• Church of St. Barbara:  You can find this pretty church just a small skip away from the main square. It is currently being used as a museum, therefore the official name is also ‘Crkveni muzej’.  
• Garden of St. Lawrence:  You will find an oasis of peace in this hidden garden of the St. Lawrence Monastery. Entry is free, however when you are there it seems as though you should consume something in the adjoining café. You can find the garden on the way to St. Michael’s Fortress (more about this soon). 
• The promenade:  Here you will find one café after the next – perfect for a sundowner! 

Šibenik’s 4 Fortresses

There are four historical fortresses in Šibenik:

• St. Michael:  The most famous fortress, which you should absolutely visit. 
• Baron:  Located a little higher and also well worth a visit. 
• St. Johannes:  The highest fortress in Šibenik.
• St. Nicholas:  Out in the sea on an island in the St. Anthony Channel. We give you more info about this in the chapter on day trip destinations. 

St. Michael’s Fortress

The most famous fortress, and also the one closest to the old town, is St. Michael’s Fortress (called ‘Tvrđava svetog Mihovila’ in Croatian). You can get to the south entrance (there is also a north entrance) from the main square (Trg Republike Hrvatske) in just a few minutes on foot. The path to get there is very well signposted, so the fortress is hard to miss.

Then there are a few stairs, and a few vertical metres to overcome, before you can enjoy the spectacular panorama view over Šibenik. There are always summer concerts playing on the gigantic outdoor stage there – what a great backdrop! 

Inside the fortress you can find a nicely designed exhibition, but the highlight of the trip is definitely the view. You can take a walk along the old defence walls and enjoy views in all directions from there. 

Our tip: It is especially beautiful up here at sunset when the sinking sun casts a beautiful light over Šibenik. However, be sure to keep an eye on the opening times. 

You can find all the info for opening times and entrance fees on the official website: St. Michael’s Fortress

Baron Fortress

Do you have a little more time and would like to visit another fortress in Šibenik? Then we warmly recommend the Baron Fortress for you (called the ‘Tvrđava Barone’ in Croatian). 

It is located close to the old town but a little higher, and therefore further away, than St. Michael’s Fortress. Plan around 15 minutes for the walk up to the entrance of the fortress. The effort is worth it: The panorama view over Šibenik is fantastic. 

Our tip: The renovated fortress also has a café. You can recover from the strenuous walk up with a cold beverage and a brilliant view into the distance – wonderful! 

You can find all the info for opening times and entrance fees on the official website: Baron Fortress  

Viewing terrace:  The  postcard motif of Šibenik

Just a 10-minute stroll north from the city centre you can find Šibenik’s ‘home beach’, Banj beach. There you will find a viewing terrace from which you can get the classic postcard view of Šibenik.

The vantage point itself doesn’t provide much in terms of architecture, but the view looking back at the old town from there is really fantastic. The pretty coastal town presents itself completely differently depending on the time of day – be it at the break of day, at sunset or also at night. We highly recommend! 

St. Anthony Channel (Sveti Ante) 

Even though it doesn’t always look like it in the photos: The historical old town of Šibenik is not located on the open sea but connected to it through the St. Anthony Channel (Croatian: Sveti Ante). We warmly recommend a trip to this nature reserve on the two offshore peninsulas. 

Here awaits you not only lovely landscape with magical bays but also most of all an unbelievably beautiful view of the sea as well as back in the direction of Šibenik’s city centre. 

The most well-known hike is on the southernmost peninsula and goes along the coast. The trail is 4.4 kilometres long all together (one way, not a round trip). It’s best to start from the carpark close to St. Nicholas’ Fortress. (We have marked the exact spot on the map.)

We ourselves walked to both the most well-known viewing points (walking time: ca. one hour from the carpark). First you reach the lower lookout and some 10 minutes later the upper lookout. The view from both is fantastic! The way back follows the same trail again. Good to know: The path to get there is not too challenging, however is quite steep at the end – but nothing you can’t manage as a reasonably fit person, so don’t worry. Hiking boots are also not a necessity, gym shoes or sneakers are enough. 

Our tip: There is a path that leads from the carpark in the other direction towards St. Nicholas’ Fortress. This little detour is also very recommendable. However: If you want to get to the fortress itself, this route is not recommended because the fortress is officially only accessible from the sea. (Theoretically you could walk through the water to the fortress for the last section). 

Krka National Park

Krka National Park is without a doubt the most famous and most visited day trip destination around Šibenik. The natural gem is located about 20 minutes’ drive away from the centre of Šibenik and is therefore ideal for a (half) day trip. 

What is there to see in Krka National Park? 

The Krka National Part is huge (it extends of a section of the river of around 45 kilometres). One day is not really enough to visit the entire national park. Therefore, the classic day trip program is usually limited to what is probably the most spectacular section of the park, around the Skradinski waterfall (‘Skradinski Buk’). 

There is an approximately 2km long loop track that goes around the Skradinski waterfall. The path mainly leads you along wooden walkways, also often up and down steps through the natural gem. You hear the sounds of the waterfall, frogs croaking, birds singing – the trail is at its breathtakingly beautiful best when the park is not so full. There are always spectacular views for you to enjoy.  

Once you reach the waterfall you are no longer allowed to (!) enjoy a dip in the cool water. Swimming has been banned here since 2021 for ecology and nature conservation. In spite of this (or better said, because of it), the sight of the cascading waterfalls is incredibly impressive.  

How do I get to the loop track in the Krka National Park? 

There are two places you can reach the loop track from: 

• From Lozovac:  There is a ca. 15-minute walking track leaving from the carpark, which leads down a gravel trail towards the loop track. Alternatively, you can also take the bus. 
• From Skradin:  There are regular boats leaving from the carpark to the waterfall. If you prefer to be active, you can also walk approx. 4km along a walking track. 

Important to know: The national park is one of the most visited sights in Croatia. Therefore, we recommend – especially during the summer months! – to get there as early as possible. Alternatively, it could also be fine to go late in the afternoon. Even when the photos of the waterfall suggest otherwise – you have to be prepared for it to be very busy. 

The idyllic coastal town of Primošten is located about half an hour south of Šibenik. It is beautifully situated on a peninsula that is only connected to the mainland by a small dam. Therefore, Primošten is especially impressive from a bird’s eye view – we will of course let you know where the best views are in a moment. 

What can you expect in Primošten? In short: A magical fishing town which, despite its growing tourist interest, has managed to maintain a relaxing flair. 

You should allow around two to three hours’ time for a visit. The town is really small and quickly explored. If you need some inspiration for your plans, we let you know the main attractions and our personal highlights in Primošten below. 

Sights & tips for Primošten

Walk to the Sveti Juraj church:  The Sveti Juraj church is enthroned at the highest point in the old town. A stroll through the romantic streets up to the church is one of the must-dos while in Primošten. It takes around 10 to 15 minutes to reach, depending on where you leave from. 

Coffee/lunch break:  There are very nice konobas (taverns) and cafés in Primošten that are ideal for a break. For example, the idyllic Konoba Dvor or the Coffee Bar Vlaho are recommendable. 

The best view of Primošten:  You probably get the best panorama view over the peninsula from the viewpoint next to the statue ‘Our Lady of Loretto’. It sits on a hill high above Primošten. It takes around 10 minutes to reach the viewpoint from the junction of the main road. You can find the exact point on the map at the end of the article. 

We still remember our first time staying in Šibenik very well, over ten years ago, when it was really difficult to find anything other than Ćevapčići. Those days are long gone and the gastro-scene in Šibenik has definitely become more hip since then. 

Even though Šibenik can’t keep up with Split in terms of cuisine, there are some very recommendable restaurants and cafés. Of course, we don’t want to withhold our favourites from you.

Tips for cafés & restaurants in Šibenik

Peperoncino:  This little restaurant is situated in a tiny hidden spot. The big advantage: Everyone gets their money’s worth here because the small (but delicious) menu offers everything from meat to fish to vegetarian and also vegan dishes.  

Pelegrini:  If you really want to treat yourself, take a visit to the only Michelin-star restaurant in Šibenik. Here you can dine incredibly well, even if not for very cheap. Perfect for special occasions! 

KaGrom Ice Cream:  Apparently, they sell the best ice cream in Šibenik here. We cannot confirm whether or not this superlative is correct, but the ice cream was definitely great. In our opinion the waffle cone could still be improved upon. 

Such a dreamy city as Šibenik deserves an equally as dreamy place to stay – and we happen to have found it. We were in wonderful hands at the family run Villa Pergola and we really recommend it with all our heart. 

Here you stay in a historical stone house, which has been incredibly carefully renovated with a lot of attention to detail, located right in the old town of Šibenik. The ambience is really something to fall in love with. The rooms exude a pure feel-good atmosphere. We chose the ‘Deluxe Studio’ category. If you would like to treat yourself, then choose the ‘Deluxe Apartment with Terrace’ – simply wonderful! 

The location of the Villa Pergola couldn’t be better: You are just a hop and a skip away from all the sights. The owner is also so helpful and hospitable that we found it really hard to leave this place. All in all: Highly recommended! 

You can book the accommodation here:   Villa Pergola

You can find all of our highlights marked on this map so that you can better navigate each of the sights around the place. Small tip: Just click on the top right corner to open the map with the Google Maps App on your phone. 

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This travel guide contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

We are curious: Have you already been to Šibenik? Did you like the coastal town as much as we did? Perhaps you have some additional tips for sights or restaurants that you would like to share? We look forward to your comments! 

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Šibenik Croatia in Adriatic Coast: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Šibenik Croatia, or the city of fortresses, is an amazing destination on the country’s Adriatic coast. It is known as a gateway to the Krka National Park and Kornati Archipelago . And if we go to the history of Šibenik, it runs to the 14 th and 15 th centuries. The Cathedral of St. James, Šibenik Museum, The white stone St. Michael’s Fortress, and Prince’s Palace, like highlighted landmarks, will tell about that history.

Besides the historical things, there is a sparkling sea, pristine islands, national parks, and tasty food. So, Let’s discover the ultimate travel guide about this beautiful city before travel there.

Is Š ibenik a good holiday destination?

Of course, no doubt about that. If you have any doubts, please read the following 6 facts that prove, Šibenik is one of the best holiday destinations in Europe.

The historical value of Šibenik always comes first. Because Šibenik is the oldest coastal town located on the Adriatic in Croatia, you can see many rich historical and cultural heritage. For 100 years old gothic architectured cathedrals and fortresses.

In the 16th century, this city was the biggest in Dalmatia in terms of population. And also, this city has 2 UNESCO monuments. There are 5 cities like that in the world. Šibenik is one of them. The others are Berlin in Germany, London in the UK, Beijing in China, and New Delhi in India.

The stunning natural location of Šibenik becomes the next reason for you to visit Šibenik, Croatia. It is really a phenomenal location. The world-famous natural national parks like Krka and Kornati, also a true paradise for sailors, prove that. Šibenik is an archipelago with around 250 picturesque islands surrounded by the surreal Adriatic Sea. So, yes. Sibenik is a good holiday destination.

Some more reasons

The next reason to prove to you why you must visit at least once in your travel life is festivals in this city. Š ibenik is called a city of festivals. Plenty of musical festivals and cultural events are held here. For example, in July, the Salsa Beach Splash Festival, Supertoon Animated Film Festival, the OFF Jazz and Blue Festival, and traditional Klape choir evenings are some of them. Read further to get to know more. 

Food in Šibenik is another fact that attracts tourists. Especially in the Old Town of Šibenik, plenty of restaurants offer you authentic Šibenik food. And you can have them by looking at the historical views of history.

Beaches in Šibenik are my favorite reasons to visit there. They are untouched, hidden, beautiful, and secluded. Just scroll down to know what are the best beaches in Šibenik.

Šibenik is filled with adventurous activities like deep-sea diving, sailing, snorkeling, water skiing, cycling, and Bunge jumping.

Planning to visit Sintra? Just read this:   Sintra Portugal Travel Guide .

Things to do in Šibenik Croatia

Šibenik is the city of fortresses and old cathedrals. It also has museums, natural parks, surreal beaches, and many more things to see and do. Here’s the best list of them. Just add to your bucket list.

Š ibenik Old Town

Since Šibenik has 2 UNESCO listed heritage sites, this is the best place to discover Croatia’s history. So, you should not miss a walk around Šibenik’s Old Town. There you will see cathedrals and fortresses that are old for more than 100 years.

The Cathedral of St. James

This is one of the most highlighted landmarks in the Old Town of Šibenik. The three architects, Francesco di Giacomo , Georgius Mathe Dalmaticus , and Niccolo di Giovanni Fiorentino, have developed this cathedral’s structure. And the most important fact is that the entire structure was included stones and used unique construction techniques for the vaulting the dome of the Cathedral.

And Šibenik’s nearby islands of Brac, Korcula, Rab, and Krk supplied the required stones for constructing this beautiful Venetian art in the 15th century. To protect and appraise its historical value, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The constructions started in 1431 and were completed in 1536. It has taken a huge time period because of changing various Venetian builders. And, this cathedral has some unusual features as well. One of them is the frieze of 71 heads on the exterior walls at the building’s rear. Like, that there are some more special things to see there.

And a tip from me is to pick up a brochure from the entrance. Then, it will provide a self-guided circuit of the many artworks and architectural features inside.

St. Francis’s Church and Monastery

Locating in the Old Town of Šibenik, this mammoth church’s history runs until the end of the 14 th century. And it belongs to Šibenik’s main Franciscan Monastery, which represents Gothic origins. But it has a full Baroque makeover, created by 17th-century painter Matej Ponton . The series of dramatically turbulent altar paintings are worth watching. And also, the painted wooden ceiling is marvelous and historical.

The landscape of this church is made up as follows. A doorway from the square just outside the church’s main entrance leads to the monastery courtyard. And it has a row of stone buildings containing a range of displays dealing with church holidays.

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Now let’s talk about the symbol of Šibenik Croatia. They are its fortresses.

St. Michael’s Fortress

St. Michael’s Fortress is a magnificent medieval fort in the Old Town. And, it is the oldest and the most famous that offers you Croatia’s scenic views. On the other hand, it actually provides impressive sunset views over the Šibenik’s Krka River and the Adriatic Islands . And this is the first impression for the tourists who are coming to Šibenik. So, it can be considered the symbol of Šibenik.

When it comes to the fortress structure, its floor plan has the shape of an irregular rectangle. And there are two square towers on its eastern side, whereas two polygonal towers sit along its northern front.

This fortress had been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt many times. Archeological investigations inside the fortress have found numerous remains of old material culture. And, an amazing feature of this fortress is secretly providing access to the sea. When you go down through the downhill from the fortress towards the seafront, a crenelated set of double walls provides access to the sea.

Therefore, St. Michael’s Fortress stands proud as a true landmark of the city. And this is an unavoidable cultural destination while traveling to Šibenik, Croatia.

St. John’s Fortress or Tanaja and Fortress Barone

Both St. John’s and Barone fortresses were built-in 1646. The main target of constructing St John’s Fortress was to defense from the Turkish attacks in 1647. And it was a success. Currently, the fortress is running with a reconstruction process. So, the authority is expecting to reopen it in 2021.

On the other hand, Fortress Barone is located very close to St. John’s. The special attraction of Barone is its high tech museum. Actually, it includes the items that were used in the Battle for Šibenik in 1647. Other than the museum, the views offered by this fortress is priceless. Also, there’s a coffee shop and a children’s park as well. The entrance fee is around $8 and valid for other fortresses as well.

St. Nicholas Fortress

St. Nicholas Fortress is also another Venetian masterpiece of art located in The Old Town of Šibenik. Its history also runs till the 16th century. The aim of building this fortress was to defend the city from the seaside. So, it is located at the entrance to St. Anthony’s Channel. But, the fortress was never attacked in history.

So, it never got a chance to check the ability for defensive. Actually, the outer appearance of this fortress is so frightening. If your mind says to visit this St. Nicholas, join with a 2 hours boat ride from Riva. The ride goes through St. Anthony’s Channel by offering amazing views. Also, it offers you guided sightseeing of the fortress for $20. 

St. Anthony’s Channel

St. Anthony’s Channel is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Šibenik, Croatia. There are several ways to enjoy this channel. You can walk along the channel and see the views near the Adriatic Sea. That promenade is long more than 4km, and somewhere in the middle of this walking trail, you will see the Cave of St. Anthony.

Or you can get a bike ride along the channel trail. Also, as I explained to you earlier, getting a boat ride to the Fortress of St. Nicholas is another way to discover St. Anthony’s Channel.

Š ibenik Croatia National Parks

Here are the most impressive national parks in and near Šibenik, Croatia.

Krka National Park

Covering 100 square kilometers, Krka is the best natural wonder in Šibenik. Especially, the park’s stunning waterfalls made it more popular around the world. The most attractive waterfall is Skrandinski Buk Waterfall, since anyone can swim in this refreshing natural water pool under the falls. On the other hand, the tallest waterfall in the park, Manojlovac slap waterfall, is surrounded by super scenic views.

Another highlighted place in Krka National Park is Visovac Island. It is a tiny island and home to a monastery since 1445. And it is very eye-catching due to the beautiful natural surrounding. However, if you want to see everything in Krka properly, try to visit there as early as possible. You can then swim in the waterfall pools without any overcrowded effect because so much of the crowds are attracted here daily.

There is an entrance fee, and it depends on which time of the year you visit. However, it varies between $5 and $30. 

Looking for the best hotels to stay in Šibenik, Croatia? Just check here.  Plitvice Lakes National Park

Well, this one has located 200km away from Šibenik. But, since you can reach this natural wonder within 2 hours, I thought to mention it as well. Plitvice Lakes National Park considers as the most beautiful natural spot in Croatia. And this is the home for the world-famous 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 waterfalls.

Everyone who walks through this park’s trails may feel like in a fairy tale because the water of these cascades is crystal clear and turquoise colored. 

Here also, the entrance fee varies with time. It fluctuates between $12 and $45.

Š ibenik City Museum

The City Museum is one of the best ways to discover old Šibenik. And now it has opened after 22 years of renovation break. The exhibits are divided into four periods. They are Prehistory, Antiquity, Late Antiquity, and Middle Ages . And this museum is located in the palace of the 14 th century’s Rector. Most importantly, there are English translations and videos to understand historical stories.

Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden

Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden is designed and completed by award-winning landscape artist Dragutin Kis. And it is a small medieval garden with herbs and medicinal plants in neat borders between pathways in the shape of a cross. Also, there’s a cafe attached to the garden, and it is a pleasant place to stop to eat some snacks.

As one of Šibenik’s most popular attractions since opening its gates in 2007, it is a soothing spot to enjoy a few moments of retreat. And the garden contains the real medieval look. It is there because of occupying an oblong terrace just above St Lawrence’s church’s belfry and surrounded by stone walls.

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Š ibenik Croatia Beaches

Frankly speaking, you cannot see many beaches near the town area of Šibenik. There are only a few of them within walking distance. They are also more crowded with locals and tourists. And some of the beautiful ones are owned by hotels. So, here I have mentioned both close to the town and nearby beaches. 

Banj or Crnical Beach is the closest beach to Šibenik Town. Less than 1km away from the city center. Since it is very close and offers you spectacular views, plenty of people are attracted to this beach. So, when you see it at once, you won’t like it because there are too many people in every inch. But, just ignore that, and feel the collective beauty of the old fortresses and ocean. 

Jadrija City Beach is the best beach for swimming in Šibenik. And it is trendy among locals and tourists since 1921. Locating in the nearby suburb of Jadrija, you can travel there by local transport services. Hence it is so beautiful; I suggest you not miss it.

Along the St. Anthony’s Channel , there are two stunning beaches. Skar Cove is one of them. It is such a pebble beach that it can even access by car. And it offers you scenic views of the St. Nicholas Fortress with the Adriatic Sea. The other one is Minerska Bay Beach . It is a calm and quiet beach located on the promenade of St. Anthony’s Channel. But, in the peak seasons, it might get crowded. 

Rezaliste Beach is located 6km away from Šibenik. And it is near to Brodarica Settlement. This small pebble beach is ideal for families. So, it is hugely populated by locals and tourists.

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Aquarium Terrarium Š ibenik

This is a useful rainy-day diversion for the kids. This is a little aquarium. Also, it has a display of local and tropical fish, along with crabs, lobsters, rays, small sharks, and the octopus.

Victory Museum

This is also known as the Museum of Victory and Liberation of Dalmatia. This well-presented archive documents the antifascist struggle in Dalmatia. As it opened in 2016 and the first museum of its kind in Croatia, its focus is on WWII. With multimedia and photographic exhibits in Croatian and English and some interesting historical footage.

St John’s Church

This 14th-century lump of stone is famous for the balustrade staircase on the street-facing side. And it is said to be the work of prolific stonemason Nikola Firentinac. Inside lies a trio of Baroque altars; the side altar to the left bears a jolly relief of trumpeting cherubs and skulls.

Sprouting from the upper part of the balustrades is series of angels’ heads in relief form, while a severely eroded lion stands guard at the bottom. And the church is closed for visitors. And church’s four-story belfry boasts the town’s oldest mechanical clock. It has made by Ottoman craftsmen and used in Drniš before being brought to Šibenik.

Where’s Š ibenik Croatia?

Šibenik is a city in Croatia located on the Adriatic Sea coast or in Central Dalmatia, where the world-famous Krka River falls into the sea. And the importance of this city’s location is that it is considered one of the most naturally protected harbors on the Adriatic Coast . But, Šibenik is not as famous as the cities in Croatia like Split and Dubrovnik. So, you may not see a lot of tourists.

As I mentioned earlier, there are 250 islands to Šibenik Archipelago, and it stretches for about 160 km². But, only six of them are actually inhabited. That amount is also around 8000 people. That means this is so remote and untouched. So, you can experience the beauty of this city without any overcrowding effect.

How do you get to Š ibenik, Croatia?

You can select one option out of flight and bus. If you select to reach Šibenik via a flight, you should know that Šibenik doesn’t have an airport. You have to land at the Split Airport and reach Šibenik via bus, taxi, or rented vehicle since Split is the closest one.

Šibenik is just 80km away to the north of the city, Split. But, there is only 60km from Split Airport to Šibenik. Split is more famous among tourists than Sibenik. So, the Split Airport is a little busy and pricy at the peak seasons. Don’t worry; I can give you another option for that. Just catch a flight to Zadar Airport , which is 80km away from Šibenik, Croatia. It is not as pricy and busy as Split Airport.

However, once you reach Split or Zadar, just rent a car and drive to Šibenik. You can click here and book safe rent cars online at low prices. And the next option is to catch a bus. It will be the most budget-friendly option for you.

Travel By Bus

First, catch a bus from Sukoisanska Bus hub near Split City Center to Trogir , a town on the Central Adriatic coast. (I have mentioned Sukoisanska on the above map). And there’s a bus every 20 to 30 minutes to travel this 30km journey just for $2. So, don’t worry about bus schedules.

And if your mind says to sail on the Adriatic Sea, then there are ferry services as well.

Finally, once you reach Trogir, then catch the bus to Šibenik. That journey has around 47km, and the bus charge is $6. Trust me; the journey is more scenic.

BTW, Croatia’s transport system is perfect. You can find a bus to Šibenik from anywhere in the country.

Well, travel around the city of Šibenik is easy, as it is a tiny city. And I think walking is the best way to discover most of the highlighted places. But, if you want, you can rent a car as well. And my tip is to travel early in the morning, especially to the national parks, to avoid the overcrowding effect.

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Š ibenik to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik attracts numerous tourists annually. And it is more famous than Šibenik. So, if I tell you how to reach from Šibenik to Dubrovnik, well, there is 280km. It means quite a long journey.

There are several ways to travel this long distance. There are buses, trains, ferries, get an Uber, or you can drive yourself. If you decide to travel by direct bus, it will take around 6 hours and 15 minutes. And the charge will be around $25 to $30. Since the journey is too long and you need a change, then travel via Split. It will also take nearly 7 hours.

If you decided to travel via train, well first you should take a train at Mandalina, Šibenik to Split. And it will take around one and a half hours. There are trains every 4 hours. You can manage the whole train journey within $6. Once you reach Split, you can easily catch a bus to reach Dubrovnik within 4 hours for $20.

Suppose you decided to travel by ferry. Here’s your way. Just take a bus from Šibenik to Split (1 hour and 30 minutes) and catch a ferry there. Keep in mind that the ferry rides are traveling from Split to Dubrovnik only one time a day. And the journey will take around 5 hours with scenic Adriatic views for $35. So, check for the ferry schedule .

Š ibenik Croatia Weather

Here are the major seasons in Šibenik Croatia.

Spring comes from March to May. The temperature fluctuates between 13ºC to 25ºC. May is hotter than March. In this season, you will experience a significant amount of rainfall as well. But, this is the second busiest tourism period in the city.

Summer starts in June and exists until August. Well, this is the busiest season or the peak season of tourism in Šibenik, Croatia. Because the climate is just awesome with high temperatures. Precipitation is also very less and ideal for any kind of activity in the city. Therefore, you can experience high prices for everything as well. But, this is the best time to visit Šibenik.

Fall Season comes in September, and it lasts until November. Here you will experience a significant amount of wind, snow, and rain. So, due to bad weather, tourists are not more attracted to Šibenik Croatia in this season. So, the prices are less for accommodation and other activities.

Winter starts in December and runs till February. Since low temperatures and snow, tourists are not traveling Šibenik in this winter season. So, for budget travelers, here’s the chance for you.

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Home > Best Things To Do In Šibenik & Why You Should Go

Best Things To Do In Šibenik & Why You Should Go

Written by our local expert Bram

Bram was born and raised in Belgium and has traveled the Balkans & beyond. He is a professional freelance travel writer and photographer specializing in outdoor travel with an emphasis on national parks, nature, and wildlife.

A coastal city in Croatia that becomes more popular each year – here are the top things to do in Šibenik Croatia.

A coastal city that has endured nearly a millennium of scorching temperatures, sustaining a few wars, being beaten by the waves and whipped by relentless winds, Šibenik remains as vibrant as ever. How did it survive?

For one, its residents are incredibly resilient, for neither war nor climatic events could prevent them from saving and, if necessary, rebuilding their city. Second, the entire city is made of stone , which, of course, helps a lot.

Šibenik consists of stone buildings, stone stairways, rock cliffs, cobbled streets, and stone arches. It is built on rocks and constructed with rocks. Šibenik is a city of sun, sea, and stone, a unique combination of characteristics that make this beautiful city unlike any other in Croatia .

Additionally, this proud city is the only one on the Croatian coast built by Croats— Split and Dubrovnik , for example, were founded by other cultures.

As the third-largest city in Dalmatia , Šibenik makes a strongly recommended destination on this spectacular stretch of Adriatic coastline. This city is filled with incredible historical sites, beautiful seaside hang-outs, and quaint alleys and squares—just what you may expect from a medieval coastal city in Croatia .

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Explore the Old Town

Sibenik’s Old Town is a beautiful place to explore, and it’s almost like a maze of narrow, cobbled streets. You’ll find small shops, cafes, and old buildings everywhere you turn, and getting a little lost will always lead to finding something amazing. Sibenik City Museum and the National Theater are both situated in the Old Town and are great spots to check out.

So grab yourself a room at one of these incredible accommodations in Šibenik , then head out to see these sights!

A strikingly harmonious Renaissance building situated on the Republic of Croatia’s medieval Square in the very heart of the city, the City Hall of Šibenik, was constructed between 1533 and 1546. Its beautiful façade comprises columns and arches, a balustrade, and a balcony. The ground floor is home to a beautiful local restaurant, and the outside terrace provides an extraordinary view of the Cathedral of St. James (see below).

Although the City Hall was entirely leveled during an Allied air raid in 1943, it was meticulously rebuilt and now looks exactly like it did before World War II.

Krka National Park

Not technically located within Šibenik, but definitely close enough to be considered a local highlight, Krka National Park lies merely a few kilometers to the city’s northeast—about 15 minutes by car from the city center.

This superb national park protects a section of the Krka River and the woods that occupy its banks. It is truly exceptional because it’s a national park for more than one reason—the many activities in the park range from educational and scientific to recreational, touristic, and cultural.

What sets this park apart is its large number of waterfalls and cascades, most notably Skradinski Buk. Krka National Park’s star attraction, this downright spectacular waterfall, can be seen on boardwalks that encircle it—and lead visitors past, over, and along many other waterfalls, streams, and lakes.

Moreover, you can swim in the natural pond underneath the waterfall, which is absolutely amazing—swimming is, for example, not allowed anywhere in Plitvice Lakes National Park , a similar but more famous and more popular Croatian national park.

There are a few entrances to Krka National Park , but the recommended one—that is, the one closest to Skradinski Buk—is the Lozovac entrance. The entry is clearly signposted along all approaching roads, the main one of which is the A1 expressway. There’s free parking.

Stone Streets and Quaint Squares

A fun thing to do in Šibenik is walking around aimlessly. Its medieval heart is completely car-free—the streets and alleys are too narrow for car traffic—and allows people to explore, discover, and wander at their leisure. The historic city center comprises a few different areas, known as Grad, Dolac, and Gorica, which all neighbor one another.

These areas are chock-full of historic sites, ranging from ancient churches to palaces and mansions to townhouses.

Everything, of course, is made from stone. A maze of paved and cobbled streets connects all these attractions; sometimes, the roads pass underneath a beautiful arch or even through a tunnel. Because the city was built on a rocky coastal area, there are some elevation changes as well, which are conquered by—you guessed it—stone stairways.

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Four fortresses.

Šibenik has always had a strategic position in the Adriatic Sea. This military advantage made it a much-desired city by the larger Mediterranean powers. The city rulers anticipated that and erected several mighty fortresses, built fortified city walls , and constructed commanding towers. Nowadays, the fortresses are the best-preserved remains of this once-mighty fortification system.

There are four fortresses in the city of Šibenik—the Fortresses of St. Nicholas, St. John, and St. Michael, and the Fortress Šubićevac—all of which were built between the 15 th and 17 th centuries.

While they are all definitely worth visiting, the Fortress of St. Michael is imposing because it houses a concert and theater venue at its top. Overlooking Šibenik and the islands in the Adriatic Sea, it is one of the most scenic places to attend a performance in Croatia .

Cathedral of St. James

The number one attraction in Šibenik is the Cathedral of St. James. A stunning and stylish building, this magnificent cathedral was built in the 15 th and 16 th centuries and can be said to be one of the most significant monumental cathedrals in Europe. It wouldn’t be Šibenik if its cathedral weren’t built entirely from stone—in fact, it is the only cathedral in Europe constructed with only stone. And did you know it was featured on Game of Thrones ?

It was also the very first structure in Europe to be constructed with inter-grooved stones. And that’s not all. The Cathedral of St. James is also the only European building whose interior shape corresponds entirely with its exterior features. It would by no means be a stretch to state that the Cathedral of St. James can be considered to be the most important Renaissance building in Croatia.

It is truly an absolutely extraordinary building, a vast stone monument that is one of the top sights on the entire Dalmatian coast .  UNESCO recognized this cathedral’s cultural, architectural, and historical significance when it declared it a World Heritage site in 2000.

Spend Time at The Best Beaches

Banj Beach is the closest beach to the center of town, at around 1km distance away. This is a pebbly beach, but the water is very clear and calm and great for swimming. There is a restaurant at the beach so that you can grab some refreshments and an ice cream. You can also rent sun loungers and parasols; however, it’s best to get there early if you want to bag a good sun lounger.

Game of Thrones Tour

You might recognize some of Sibenik before you even go, and if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, that’s why. Many sites around this area were used for filming the hit show, including St John’s Fortress and the Cathedral of St James. You’ll find many walking tours which show you these famous filming spots, and it’s a great way to see more of the local area too.

St Ana Cemetery

It might sound a little depressing to visit a cemetery, but this spot is so peaceful and natural it should definitely be on your list. The views over the sea are stunning, and it’s a great place to sit and feel the tranquility of life.

St Lawrence Monastery & Cave Grotto

St Lawrence Monastery should be another spot you head to, and the gardens around the monastery are so beautiful. There is a cafe in the gardens, and you can sit and enjoy the peace and quiet. Also, within this complex, you’ll find a cave grotto and a statue of Mary inside.

A Day Trip to Kornati National Park

Sailing around the countless islands in Kornati National Park is a beautiful way to spend the day or maybe a few days. You’ll find many tours on offer, either as a group or a private option. You can also snorkel around this area, as the water is extremely clear and there is abundant marine life.

Sibenik Marina & Riva

The marina is a great spot to walk and check out the huge boats moored up. There are many cafes and restaurants to stop for refreshments and lots of ice cream stalls, too. The promenade is called the Riva, and this is where you can see amazing sunsets.

Cikola Canyon Ziplining

Just outside of Sibenik, you’ll find this beautiful canyon, which is extremely deep and ideal for a spot of adrenaline-boosting ziplining. There are various lengths to try, starting at 200 meters and going up to 650 meters. Of course, it’s not for people who aren’t into heights, but it’s a real thrill, and the views are amazing.

Explore Šibenik’s Localities & Islands

There is an abundance of things to see in Šibenik out of the old town, and it has loads of great places to stay , making it a great place to spend a few days.

The whole Šibenik-Knin region offers various destinations with beaches, islands , cafe bars, restaurants, festivals, and events.

There are about 20 historic towns along the coast. The better-known ones include:

Plus, the three largest inland towns in the Dalmatian hinterland are:

Many islands, many close to the mainland, make Šibenik a lovely place for sailing . Six islands are inhabited, car-free (suitable for bike riding), and accessible by ferry , except Murter, which is connected to the mainland via a moveable bridge. 

The islands are:

• Murter  has four towns (historic settlements): Tisno, Jezera, Betina , and Murter is the gateway to the Kornati National Park
• Prvić  has two settlements, Šepurine and Luka
• Zlarin,  known for its red Adriatic coral harvested by locals
• Krapanj,  home to an old monastery and famed for natural sea sponge harvested by free divers
• Kaprije,   the Croatian word for caper,  is a sailing paradise
• Žirje, the Croatian word for acorn) is the furthest island from Šibenik’s coastline, with bays and inlets ideal for sailing

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What Makes Šibenik Unique

As you might expect, the rich culture, history, natural wonders, beautiful beaches, and hundreds of islands provide many things to do in the Šibenik region. Šibenik shares some of its natural landscapes with the neighboring Zadar and Split counties . How is it different from its Dalmatian counterparts, like Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik ?

For starters, it’s blessed with:

• Krka and Kornati National Parks
• Lake Vrana Nature Park
• Dinara mountain peak, Croatia’s highest mountain
• Rivers Krka and Cetina and a section of the Zrmanja River
• UNESCO World Heritage site St James Cathedral (Sv Jakov)
• UNESCO World Heritage list tentative nominee, the vineyards of Primošten with their indigenous Babić grape varietal
• Natural wonders, including the Cetina Spring, the source of the Cetina River
• Monasteries, churches, and museums
• Historical and archeological sites
• Folklore, cultural events, and festivals

The Šibenik region is home to 14 fortifications and fortresses:

• The City of Šibenik alone has four
• The banks of the Krka River hold seven from medieval times
• The medieval Knin fortress, a historic home to Croatian kings and nobility
• The Byzantium fortress on the Kornati islands
• The remains of a Roman military camp and amphitheater, Burnum

How To Get To Sibenik

One thing I love about Šibenik is that it’s perfectly central. I find most people I know agree. Šibenik has a central bus station that is well connected to other bus ports nationwide. Buses are really easy to get around on if you don’t have a car.

From Šibenik, Skradin and the entrance to Krka National Park’s main waterfalls (Skradinski Buk) are half an hour away inland by car. Via the A1 (also called the E65):

By car, it takes:

• Split and its main ferry port, with access to all the southern islands, is an hour’s drive south
• Zadar is under an hour north
• Zagreb is 3.5 hours north (east)
• Rijeka is 3.5 hours north (west)
• Dubrovnik is 3.5 hours south

Fly:   The closest airport to Sibenik is Split Airport , which is located 56 kilometers away. You can also find cheaper flights to Zadar Airport – which is 80 kilometers away. Once at the airport, your best option for getting to Sibenik is renting a car and driving or hiring  a private transfer .

Bus:   Intercity buses are very accessible in Croatia . Wherever you are in the country, you’ll be able to reach Sibenik by bus.

Did we miss your favorite spot in Šibenik? If so, what other things to do in Šibenik would you suggest to anyone going there?

Comments (18)

I’m really hopeful that I can visit Croatia in the very near future. Very happy to have stumbled onto your website. Sibenik looks like a truly awesome place and yet another reason Croatia will likely explode with tourism in the near future. Thanks for sharing this and for giving me another reason to go!

I ❤ my Šibenik!

Game of Trone Tour ☺ a lot of the filming are from Sibenik.

Been there, it is impressive.

Been there. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Done it all

That’s in Primosten!

Aaaaaaaah….moje selo….?

And home to Maksim Mrvica, Croatia’s World renowned Crossover Concert Pianist! Part of my dream is to see him perform in his hometown, preferably the St Michael’s Fortress, but I’ll go see him anywhere. ?

Magnific! Have been there 4-5 times! A MUST do! <3

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Why you should skip Dubrovnik and head to sensational Šibenik instead

Jan 27, 2023 • 5 min read

Šibenik, on Croatia’s Adriatic coast, is as beguiling as better-known Dubrovnik – without the crowds © Ratnakorn Piyasirisorost / Getty Images

Lucie Grace is a travel writer who has lived in Croatia. Here, she argues that travelers can skip busy Dubrovnik and head to the lesser-known Šibenik instead. 

In 2022, Croatia , a nation of just four million people, welcomed 18.9 million visitors. So it’s fair to say that tourism in this European nation is once again thriving.

And for good reason. It’s a downright stunning country, full of natural wonders and fascinating history . And this isn’t a recent trend: people have been heading for holiday on the Adriatic coastline since the 1880s, when resorts proliferated along its breathtaking blue waters. Still, nothing could have properly prepared Croatians along the Dalmatian Coast for the Game of Thrones effect. Shot partially in Dubrovnik , the HBO sensation caused a boom in tourism that has been quantified by researchers at University of Zagreb . Yet there’s a lot more to Croatia than its King’s Landing stand-in. 

What to skip: Dubrovnik 

Dubrovnik is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” for a reason. The old city’s medieval walls encase some of the grandest baroque architecture in the world. Radiant marble buildings gleam in the sun. On a quiet day, it’s atmospheric and transportive, taking you back to maritime Europe of centuries past.

The problem is that quiet days are scarce.

With numerous flights from major European cities and New York arriving at Dubrovnik’s airport during peak season, and cruise liners pulling up sometimes three a day, the old town gets gridlocked. Hordes of people funnel into the charming old streets, which become a mass of bodies. 

The other unavoidable Dubrovnik factor? Uncomfortably punchy accommodation prices. Expect to pay at least €40 a night for a dorm bed and €100 (and quickly up from there) for a private room. “Why not try visiting in the off-season ?” I hear you cry. Because the old town shuts down. Similar to Venice , Dubrovnik is a victim of its own success. Only a handful of locals can afford to live in the historical center anymore, and consequently very few businesses stay open all year.

This means that if you want to experience the city without the throngs, your window narrows to late May or early October. Yet there are alternatives within Croatia that captivate for the entire season without the crush of the crowds. 

Where you should go instead: Šibenik

Gorgeous Šibenik has a history that’s just as rich as Dubrovnik’s, with an old town that is undeniably more tranquil. Nestled in a sea inlet between Zadar and Split , the tiny city certainly shares similarities with Dubrovnik. Both were maritime trading hubs in the Middle Ages. Both were conquered by the Venetian Republic, and therefore contain a plethora of gorgeous Venetian-style architecture. And both, of course, are adjacent to the glorious Adriatic. Yet charming Šibenik has a population of just 34,000 locals and lacks the dense tourist crowds. This means that in addition to the idyllic beauty, there’s still the normalcy of everyday life here, with a lighter vibe in the air complementing the sea breeze.

From the Riva, a seaside promenade, stairs sweep up to historic St James Cathedral , built from bright white stone mined from the neighboring island of  Brač . You’ll see a montage of architectural styles from different eras, with both Gothic and Renaissance features piled on top of one another like a layer cake. The compact center is home to 22 elegant churches – and the church and monastery of St Lawrence is an unmissable one, with a very zen garden in its churchyard. 

Šibenik also has great restaurants. Charming seafood stalwart More (led by the legendary Irena) is a stand out-spot on the Riva. And Pelegrini is a Michelin-starred treat where chef Rudolf Štefan serves a four-course menu to lucky diners that often include the country’s jet set (soccer star Luka Modrić is known to swing by when in town). 

The old town feels more like King’s Landing in design than Dubrovnik, its thin alleys and passageways connecting wider, marble-paved artery lanes that all flow up toward the peak of the hill, St Michael’s Fortress . Destroyed and rebuilt numerous times over the centuries, this citadel is thought to have traces that date back to the Iron Age; it was first recorded as a church in 1066. It is now home to an open-air auditorium where Bryan Ferry, Róisín Murphy and The National have all performed.

Krka National Park is just one of the mighty natural sights close to Šibenik. You’ll also find estuaries to swim in and great pebble beaches to lounge on: Banj beach ’s shores overlook the old town, Rezalište beach is a 10-minute drive east and Olive Beach is 15 minutes by car (or a quick boat ride from the Riva). Boats will also ferry you to the Kornati Islands , a beautiful archipelago and another of Croatia’s epic national parks .

With all that on offer, it’s time to start considering a visit. Before everyone else catches on.

How to make it happen 

Šibenik is 50-minute drive from Zadar airport and 55-minute drive from Split airport, both of which have regular connections to Zagreb as well as European hubs. If you’re arriving by train or bus, head to Zagreb and take a local Arriva Croatia bus from the capital – only a smooth, four-hour ride away.

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Sibenik travel guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Croatia’s untouched coastal city

Fancy seeing croatia without the crowds swerve excessively popular dubrovnik and split and plump for lesser-visited sibenik, where you’ll find a perfect slice of laid-back dalmatian coast, suggests mike maceacheran, article bookmarked.

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W hile Dubrovnik and Split – Croatia ’s de facto capitals – have had to adjust more than any others because of best-in-travel listings, overtourism and the cruise ship economy, Sibenik to the north has been able to avoid any stain on the city. So far, it retains the feeling of an outlier. It’s the Dalmatian coast as it once was.

In this respect, Sibenik’s majestic forts, Unesco-worthy cathedral and pedestrianised Old Town seem almost unique. Here, locals sip espresso, slurp ice cream, sit on steps and – more or less – master fjaka , the Dalmatian art of aspiring to do nothing. And that’s not mentioning the slow-motion pace of life in its cradle of islands beyond glimmering Sibenik Bay and St Anthony Channel.

In a way, it is as if the protected port city has absorbed energy over the centuries from its many overlords and invaders – Venetians and Greeks, Hungarians and Ottomans – and now decided it’s overdue time to sit back and relax. Indeed, Sibenik was founded by Croats more than one thousand years ago, making it the oldest native Croatian town on the Adriatic. You could say then, that its people have earned their right to fjaka more than most.

Read more on Croatia travel :

• Croatia travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go
• Best Dubrovnik hotels for style, location and value for money
• Discovering the joys of off-season Croatia

Get lost in the Old Town

Begin at the triple nave Cathedral of St James , which bears witness to the cross-Adriatic exchange of architectural ideas between Italy and Croatia in the 15th and 16th centuries. Sibenik is the only city in the country with two Unesco marvels to shout about and the cathedral is its first; a holy house, but also an art and sculpture lesson writ in stone.

Like in many Croatian coastal cities, strolling from polished street to pedestrianised sunlit square is the only way to truly appreciate all the architectural pomp. So from the cathedral, climb past Gothic-Renaissance monuments to sea-view wine bars to art-filled stone churches as pretty as you’ll find anywhere.

Tour a fort (or two, or three, or four)

High points come thick and fast the higher through the Old Town’s inner streets you ascend. Among these is the medieval St Michael’s Fortress , a white stone bastion rising steeply, as if straight from the water like an Atlantis reborn.

From its battlements, the view towards the Krka River and the tight channel where it flows into the Adriatic is similar to that offered by the one to the rear: simply sublime. Behind are the equally marvellous St John’s Fortress and Barone Fortress , which afford higher perches from which to digest the city.

Further out at sea is yet another stronghold: St Nicholas’ Fortress and the city’s second Unesco sight. Anchored off the coast in St Anthony Channel and arrowhead in shape, it’s a defensive tour de force originally built to scare off Ottoman invaders.

Sail Sibenik’s archipelago

Imagine Hvar or Vis, but a decade or so ago. That’s the easy sell of an island-hopping safari to the lesser-visited Sibenik Archipelago, a knot of 249 cove-nibbled islands, only six of which are inhabited.

It would take years to see them all, but settle on a day trip to the uncrowded harbours of ridiculously handsome, Prvic and Zlarin , both creaky with history and overlooked by the throngs. Or, if you have the luxury of time, add Krapanj , Kaprije and Zirje to a multi-day itinerary.

For a memorable lunch or dinner, hop off the local ferry or drop anchor on a private charter at Zlarin for tuna and calamari cooked with flair and imagination at the wonderful Konoba Aldura , a traditional taverna in arms’ reach of nets, traps and Popeye-type fishermen.

Day trip to Krka National Park

Heading inland doesn’t mean wasting precious moments on the coast. Almost-secluded Krka National Park is one of Croatia’s finest – with the swelling summer crowds to prove it – and time here is well spent hiking through a wonderland of aquamarine waterfalls, riverine islands and karstic canyons. Come at the right time – straight after the park opens around 8am in summer, 9am in winter – and it feels a world away from the coach tour crush.

Embrace fjaka

Above all, make time for the Old Town’s quiet with a wander. Seek out the Medieval Mediterranean Garden of St Lawrence Monastery , a hidden balcony of botanicals forgotten for 100 years before being rediscovered in the late 2000s (you’ll be surprised). Then head north along the Adriatic promenade between yachts and restaurants until reaching Banj Beach (you’ll appreciate a swim). It’s a fine strip of golden sand with old-fashioned taverna and bar, but also rewards with a terrific perspective of Sibenik’s higgeldy-piggeldy Old Town almost falling over itself into the water.

Where to stay

Below the ramparts on the waterfront, Amerun Heritage Hotels & Residences is for historical stone rooms with loggia views glimpsing the sardine-tight streets behind and shimmering blue out front. Hands down, it’s the most atmospheric boutique hotel in the Old Town, with two best-in-class restaurants (Buta and Bronzin) to try.

Doubles from £112, B&B; armerun.com

Sometimes you need more space and only a villa will do (preferably one with a pool too). These fit into the surrounding landscapes with minimal disruption – which can’t be said of many of the brutalist resort hotels between Split and Zadar – and there are hundreds available, from cosy-boltholes for two to sprawling, opulent houses for larger groups. Novasol offers a selection of handpicked villas across the Sibenik region and, for a longer stay, are superior to any hotel you might have in mind.

From £239pp for a seven-night stay; novasol.com

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Rates provided by Booking.com

Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing, where to eat and drink.

For gourmands, there’s only one address: Pelegrini . The city’s first Michelin-starred restaurant is located on a cobblestoned stairway off Cathedral of St James square, and burrows into a series of historic buildings and unseen courtyards. The six-course tasting menu is mind-bending, with takes on veal and lamb, sea snails and urchins, but you might doubt your senses when looking at the price: it’s not cheap at €530 with wine pairings for two. Ask for a table overlooking the Cathedral.

Sibenik’s waterfront is chockablock with traditional restaurants, ice cream parlours and cocktail bars and it can be hard to know where to settle. All are reliable enough, though the consensus seems to be that for location, shoreline terrace, price and merry-go-round of fresh fish and shellfish, Peskarija consistently hits the mark.

Art highlight

After dark, St Michael’s Fortress has another face to it. The fort is maintained with a sense of purpose for cultural events and turns open-air auditorium in summer, when orchestras and pop stars like Bryan Ferry, Roisin Murphy and The National strut the stage under the stars.

Nuts and bolts

What currency do i need, what language do they speak, should i tip.

Ten per cent will do – though tipping is not expected in Croatia.

What’s the time difference?

What’s the average flight time from the uk.

Around 2hr 30m from London and 3hr 15m from Edinburgh to Split, which is 90 minutes’ drive to the south. Zadar is another gateway city, with flights taking 2hr 25m from London and 2hr 20m from Birmingham.

How should I get around?

What’s the best view.

All the shops, cafes, bars and streets strip away when taking the stairs and steep alleys to the ramparts of St Michael’s Fortress.

Insider tip?

Not for the first time in the Adriatic, ice cream is on the menu. Despite the terrible name, nationwide chain aRoma gelato experience is a scoop shop of immense pedigree (spot the out-the-door queues on hot days), playing its part properly with a terrific selection of cone toppers. Dreamy flavours include almond with honey, sesame and fig, and mascarpone with date and walnut.

More information

For further information about Sibenik and travel to Croatia, visit croatia.hr and sibenik-tourism.hr

Read more of our best Croatia hotel reviews

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9 Best Things to do in Sibenik, Croatia [with Suggested Tours]

Are you planning to travel to Sibenik, Croatia soon ? Read our tips below on the things to do in Sibenik with suggested tours!

Located on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, Sibenik is known for having ancient buildings such as the 15th-century stone Cathedral of St. James, St. Michael’s, and St. Nicholas Fortress. It is also popular as the gateway to the Kornati Islands. So if you’re in Croatia, going to Sibenik would offer you a traditional Croatian holiday, great sites, and exciting experience. See below more of the places you can visit in this city.

Other articles you can read:

• Share Istria – A Daily Diary of our week in Istria, Croatia
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Istria, Croatia
• 10 Reasons Why Istria, Croatia is the Ultimate Couples Destination! 
• 7 Days Balkan Itinerary : Guide on How to Visit Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina
• 10 Best Croatian Traditional Dishes You Should Eat [Best Local Food in Croatia]

Table of Contents

List of Best Things to do in Sibenik, Croatia

1. the cathedral of st james in sibenik.

This cathedral is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a cathedral without a bell tower, with stones assembled without mortar and without a wooden frame. The exterior is so rich in sumptuous carvings that the interior can indeed seem bland. It’s a superb monument, a true work of art that will amaze you with its sublime stained glass window. Such an impressive architectural achievement.

Suggested Tour: From Split or Trogir: Krka NP & Šibenik Trip

2. St. Michael’s Fortress

A beautiful fortress restored and from which you can enjoy the view of the city of Sibenik and the surrounding area. A visit to St Michael’s Fortress is not only a must for culture lovers. The view over Sibenik is fantastic and can be reached on foot in a short walk of about 30 minutes through the old town. The ascent may be a bit challenging but totally worth it.

3. Dalmatian Ethno Village

A magnificent reconstituted Croatian village. Here, small houses equipped with a few tables and a fireplace, practical in spring & autumn, and, outside, many tables in the shade of the trees can be found. Ideal to visit in the evening to have a very pleasant time.

4. Rak Winery

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Rak Winery (@rak__winery) on Jun 22, 2020 at 11:29pm PDT

Only a few kilometers from Sibenik, this place is worth visiting whether or not you want to bring back wine. The tasting alone is worth the detour. The accompanying products are local such as olives or homemade olive oil.

Suggested Tour: From Split/Trogir: Krka National Park & Wine Tasting Tour

5. Sokolarski Raptor Centre

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Runaway Vet (@the_runaway_vet) on Aug 24, 2020 at 2:04am PDT

The Raptor Center takes care of injured birds. You will learn interesting facts about young animals and their habitats, how they live, hunt, and protect themselves. It’s educational and fun for both kids and adults. The animals that are shown are animals that can no longer live in the wild.

6. Town Hall Sibenik

Stretching along one side of the square in front of the cathedral, this 16th century Renaissance structure was almost completely destroyed by Allied bombardments in 1943 and has been largely rebuilt. The magnificent columned loggia of colorful proportions now houses the Vijećnica café-restaurant and is also the backdrop for many of the events that make up the annual Šibenik children’s festival.

Suggested Tour: Sibenik and Krka Waterfalls Private Tour

7. Adriatic Coast

Sibenik is a very beautiful town in itself, and the beach is just great for Croatia. Of course, pebbles are like everywhere else there, but the water is clear, the view of the city and the fortress is gorgeous.

Suggested Tour: Private Sibenik Sightseeing Tour

8. St Nicholas’ Fortress

St Nicolas’ Fortress is located at the entrance of the St. Anthony’s Canal in front of Šibenik and is very interesting both from the historical and architectural side. It was built in the 16th century to defend the city from any attacks from the sea. Aside from the fortress, the surrounding area is also worth a visit.

Suggested Tour: Sibenik: Full-Day Kornati National Park Boat Tour

9. Medieval Mediterranean Garden

A cute little garden for aperitifs or coffee. On the way back from St Michael’s Fortress, it offers a wonderful opportunity to take a little rest. You don’t have to take so much time here, a short while is worth it to appreciate the calm ambiance.

Where to stay in Sibenik, Croatia

Budget hotel.

Apartments Kata

Apartments Kata provides accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and free private parking. The apartment offers a sun terrace. Guests at Apartments Kata can also enjoy billiards on site, or fishing in the surroundings.

Price: Starts at $24 per night for Standard Studio, add $4 for taxes and charges, and it’s non-refundable.

Luxury Hotel

Bellevue Superior City Hotel

Bellevue Superior City Hotel offers modernly furnished rooms, each with splendid views of the sea or the city. Filled with abundant natural light, the rooms and suites at the Bellevue include a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries, and a hairdryer. Buffet breakfast is available every morning and includes continental and vegetarian options. The on-site spa also includes a mini swimming pool, Finnish and Turkish saunas, as well as a fitness center.

Price: Starts at $101 per night for Classic Room with Courtyard View, add $3 for taxes and charges, free breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

These are the possible things you can do in Sibenik, Croatia. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Sibenik.

How to go to Sibenik, Croatia from London

The nearest airport in Sibenik is located in Split.

Via Croatia Airlines: (one way with one-stop)

*From London Heathrow – Zagreb – Split

Ticket Price:   £175.28

*How to travel from Split to Sibenik

There are 2 ways to travel from Split to Sibenik; Train or Bus. Traveling by train can take around 2 hours and 30 mins (including transfers) to get to Sibenik. While traveling by bus is around 1 hour and 40 mins of travel and usually cheaper than trains.

*Prices are subject to change. You can visit  Skyscanner  for more details about the ticket prices.

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Wander-Lush

2 Days in Sibenik & Krka: Paradise in Northern Dalmatia

Sibenik on Croatia’s Adriatic Coast offers the perfect blend of historic charm and magnificent nature. This itinerary for 2 days in Sibenik includes the best of the old town, plus a day trip to Krka National Park and waterfalls.

About the author: April from The Unending Journey has been hooked on travel since her first international trip at the age of 19. You can usually find her exploring a new country or out hiking – and she’s always urging people to go out and travel on their own.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Walking along the promenade, Sibenik (Šibenik) feels like many other coastal Croatian cities . It isn’t until you make your way up through the labyrinth of passages and streets in the historic centre that you truly start to appreciate the beauty of this place.

The historic centre is entirely made from stone. From medieval dwellings with colourful shutters to Venetian-inspired exteriors, Sibenik is a city that grabs you.

There’s no shortage of beautiful places to see along Croatia’s coast. But many towns are overrun with tourists during the season. Somehow, Sibenik remains largely overlooked , which only adds to the city’s charm.

You definitely need to visit Sibenik now before the rest of the world discovers it!

Sibenik essentials

• Croatia car hire: Use Discover Cars to compare rental car prices for Sibenik .
• Where to stay in Sibenik: Heritage Hotel Life Palace (boutique); B&B Stone Town (mid-range); Hostel Splendido (budget).
• Short on time? Consider an organised day tour to Sibenik and Krka Waterfalls from Split instead.
• 5 essentials to pack for Sibenik: A Universal travel adapter ; swimming gear and a dry bag ; Wine Wings (essential if you want to take a few bottles of Croatian wine home with you); a travel raincoat for wet weather; a copy of the latest Lonely Planet Pocket Guide to Croatia .

Best time to visit Sibenik

With its Mediterranean climate, there is no wrong time to visit Sibenik. June through August are the warmest month with longs days. But it’s also when the city is busiest.

Visiting in the shoulder months of April/May and September/October means that you’ll still have pleasant temperatures (around 20° C) but without the crowds.

Though rainfall is expected throughout the year, the rainiest months are November and December. January is the coldest month with temperatures around 15° C or lower. There are better places to visit in Croatia in winter .

Where to stay in Sibenik

The best area to stay in Sibenik is along the promenade. Not only will you get stunning sunset views if you’re facing the water, but you’ll be staying on flat ground. Sibenik is built on a hill, so there are a lot of stairs and narrow walkways that can be difficult to navigate with luggage. Cars are prohibited in the historic centre, so taking a taxi to your accommodation is not an option.

As Croatia has an extremely good bus system, most people arrive in Sibenik via bus. The station is less than a 5-minute walk to the promenade, making it super easy for you to get to your hotel.

Heritage Hotel Life Palace is located right in the centre of the historic district. It features comfortable boutique rooms and a terrace with panoramic views of Sibenik. Check prices and availability on Booking.com .

For something mid-range B&B Stone Town is a bit further out but still walking distance from the centre. Rooms are bright and airy (some feature claw-foot bath tubs and hammocks), and breakfast is included in the nightly rate. Check prices and availability on Booking.com .

Budget travellers will find a range of affordable hostels in Sibenik. Hostel Splendido offers dorms and private doubles, all beautifully furnished and with access to a leafy outdoor terrace. Check prices and availability on Booking.com .

How many days do you need in Sibenik?

The old town can be explored at a leisurely pace in one day. But you should plan to spend at least 2 days in Sibenik so you can also take a day trip to nearby Krka National Park.

Things to do in Sibenik

Some of the highlights of Croatia can be found in and around Sibenik. Most of the city’s charm can easily be uncovered by simply strolling around the historic center. Don’t bother with a map as the old town is compact.

There are so many inviting streets, you’ll find yourself walking down every single one! You’re guaranteed to stumble on the main attractions as you go. And to make sure you do, there are signs throughout the city pointing the way to each.

Visit a fortress

One of the first things to in Sibenik is head up. Perched on the hill tops above the town are three fortresses: St. Michael’s, Barone, and St. Johns.

St. Michael’s is unmissable. When approaching Sibenik by bus, it’s St. Michael’s that you first see, instantly catching your eye. Centred in the heart of Sibenik old town, St Michael’s has stood since the 12th century, protecting the city.

Though there’s not much to do inside the fortress itself (though in the summer, there are concerts in its open-air theatre), it’s the views from the top that makes St. Michael’s a must see in Sibenik. Views extend over the red-tile roofs of the historic centre all the way to the Krka River.

On the other side, St. John’s Fortress dominates the view. Unfortunately, St. John’s is currently for extensive restorations.

On the fringe of the old town you’ll find Barone Fortress. It doesn’t look like much from the outside – but if you think the views from St. Michael’s are impressive, wait until you see the views from Barone! Trust me when I tell you the view is completely worth the short, steep climb up the hill.

If you’re visiting Sibenik during the summer, you can take a boat tour to visit the UNESCO World Heritage fortress of St. Nicholas . Built in the islet of Ljuljevac when the region was under Venetian rule, it’s the most beautiful of all Sibenik’s fortresses. Plus, the boat ride to get there is spectacular.

Cathedral of St. James

Taking more than 100 years to finish, the Cathedral of St. James is the crown jewel of Sibenik and one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in the entire country. The whole church complex is made from stone.

Take your time walking around the outside of the cathedral as the many carvings are marvellous, especially the frieze of 71 sculpted heads located along the rear.

Inside the cathedral, don’t miss the Baptistery. This small room was created in the 1440s by Juraj Matejev Dalmatinac. The stunning lace work and sculptures (all meticulously carved from stone) are just masterful.

Sibenik Old Town

Seriously – and this cannot be stressed enough – you need to spend some time aimlessly strolling around the streets of Sibenik. So, make time for it!

There are stunning plazas (especially beside the Cathedral of St. James and in front of the Town Hall), quaint churches, courtyards, and lots of unique shops that are perfect for window shopping.

Sibenik City Museum

The entrance to the City Museum is located just behind the Cathedral of St. James. The museum is housed in a 17th century Rector’s Palace, which was the former residence of the Venetian Republic’s representative to the city.

Inside the museum, you’ll find artefacts that detail the city’s rich history from prehistory, antiquity, and the middle ages.

Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden of St. Lawrence

One of the newest attractions in Sibenik, the Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden of St. Lawrence, opened in 2007. It’s designed to perfectly replicate what a traditional medieval monastery garden would have looked like. It’s not huge, but it is a very charming green spot in the middle of the stone town.

Take a short stroll through the geometric beds of flowers herbs, then relax with a refreshment from the outdoor cafe. After climbing up to St. Michael’s Fortress, it’s a good place to stop and rest your feet.

If you’re visiting Sibenik during the warmer months, you can hit the beach. An easy walking distance from the Sibenik old town, Banj Beach may not be the biggest stretch of sand in Croatia, but it is convenient.

Besides relaxing on the beach or going for a swim, Banj offers an unforgettable view of historic Sibenik.

Planning a day trip from Sibenik to Krka National Park

With 2 days in Sibenik or more, you can visit nearby Krka waterfalls and National Park.

Croatia has some incredible waterfalls. Most travellers who are on a short timeline will have to choose between visiting Plitvice or Krka .

Though the most famous falls are found at Plitvice National Park, the most spectacular are actually in Krka. Being only a 40-minute bus ride from Sibenik, Krka makes for a perfect day trip that you can easily do on your own.

Krka National Park features the most stunning stretches of landscape found along the Krka River, including canyons and tumbling waterfalls. But the main attraction is the Skradinski buk, which is comprised of 7 sets of rapids. These falls are at once delicate, forceful, jaw dropping, and inspiring.

A 2km walking path goes down and up around the falls, allowing you to see the cascades from every angle – up close, and even from above. During summer, it’s possible to go swimming near the falls. Many visitors do the quick walk around the falls, perhaps go for a swim, and then leave. But Skradinski buk is only the start of Krka National Park.

The Park actually extends up the Krka River, which can be seen via boat excursions. A separate ticket must be purchased for the boat, but it’s well worth it to see more of this magnificent landscape.

Not only is the boat ride tranquil, there are great opportunities for bird watching, and the scenery is gorgeous. Options include a boat ride to Visovac or to Roški slap.

Visovac is a tiny island with a monastery. Interestingly, the church on the island is one of only three in the world to have two main alters. Mass is still held here every Sunday, with locals taking their boats over to attend.

If you’re going to Roški slap, note that the boat does visit Viscovac. Further on, you pass through the gorgeous Među grede canyon before arriving at Roški slap, another stunning waterfall. The boat docks near the slap for some free time. Options include eating lunch, touring the historic mill buildings, doing a short hike, or climbing 517 steps to the Oziđana pećina cave.

There are two entrances to Krka National Park, Lozovac and Skradin. Lozovac gets you to the main falls very quickly, though you do need to take a shuttle bus down to the river.

Skradin is the most scenic entrance into the park as it requires a 4km boat ride along the Krka River. If you have the time, Skradin is the way to go. The ticket office is less than a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.

How to get to Krka National Park from Sibenik

Going from Sibenik to Krka National Park is very easy, so you don’t necessarily have to bother with a tour. To get to Krka National Park on your own, take one of the buses that regularly depart from Sibenik and drop passengers at both the Lozovac and Skradin entrances.

Bus schedules vary depending on the season and the day of the week. You can find the current bus schedule on display at the information desk at the bus station or at the Tourist Info Center near the Cathedral of St. James. It’s important to note that bus tickets can only be purchased with cash.

2 days in Sibenik: Final thoughts

If you’re enjoying a scenic trip along the Adriatic coast of Croatia, make sure to include 2 days in Sibenik. It’s a rare hidden gem in a country full of popular destinations. Take advantage of that, and be swept away by the charm.

Croatia essentials

Here are my favourite resources to help you organise your trip to Croatia.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Croatia on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance. Get 5% off when you use my link.

CAR HIRE: Use Local Rent to hire a budget-friendly car from a local agent (prices start from 30€/day) or jump on the Discover Cars website to hire a car through an international company.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel and apartment deals on Booking.com , the most popular booking platform in Croatia.

TOP-RATED CROATIA DAY TRIP: Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar from Split (book through Viator).

More Croatia travel resources

• Guide to Rovinj and Pula , the best of Croatian Istria
• 30+ things to do in Croatia , the ultimate list
• 8 charming towns to visit in Istria
• Things to do in Zagreb , Croatia’s capital city
• 30 must-visit places in Croatia
• Where to go in Croatia in winter
• How to plan the perfect Balkan road trip – itineraries for Croatia and beyond
• View all my guides to the Balkan countries

I visited Sibenik as a day trip from Zadar and I loved it. Probably more so than Zadar itself.

We just spent a few hours in Sibenik but next time we go to Croatia we will definitely plan to spend a bit more time in Sibenik and explore around!

It’s a great day trip destination – I think it’s worthy of a couple of nights, especially since Sibenik is so close to Krka waterfalls! Hope you get back there soon 🙂

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sibenik

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Sibenik is a city that will take you by surprise. This medieval hilltop city overlooks a narrow channel of the Adriatic Sea and is regarded as the gateway to the Kornati Islands. A stroll down the waterfront reveals its small town, historic charm with a row of stony-faced medieval buildings and a string of speedboats bobbing up and down in front of open-air cafes.

I fell in love with Sibenik. Its narrow stone alleyways and hidden plazas felt like I had stumbled onto the set of a movie. And despite having ample tourist attractions, Sibenik also happens to be far less touristy than other medieval towns in Croatia . For whatever reason, I certainly did not mind having this town (practically) all to myself.

Speaking of movie sets, I learned that the city did appear as a film location in three episodes of Game of Thrones , so if TV tourism is your speed, then you'll certainly find Sibenik entertaining. But television aside, the city is absolutely beautiful and it is certainly not short on things to do.

Sibenik dates back to the 11th century and wandering Old Town will most definitely feel like a magical time warp. The location on the Adriatic means boat culture is alive and well here, and it happens to be the jumping-off point from which to go explore nearby islands.

If you're ready to discover this white stone city about an hour north of Split , read on to discover the best things to do in Sibenik.

See also: Where to Stay in Sibenik

1. Visit the Architectural Splendor of Sibenik Cathedral

2. explore the dalmatian ethno village, 3. st. michael's fortress, 4. see sibenik's old town hall, 5. take a boat ride to st. nicholas fortress, 6. the church of st. barbara, 7. the count's palace & šibenik city museum, 8. have a splash at aquapark dalmatia, 9. take in the views from st. john's fortress, 10. see the waterfalls and wildlife at krka national park, 11. enjoy a scenic side trip to drnis, 12. the church of st. francis, 13. take a drive to otavice and the mestrovic mausoleum, 14. enjoy an island adventure in primosten, where to stay in sibenik for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in sibenik.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cathedral of St. James is one of the architectural highlights of the entire Dalmatian Coast. It dates back to the early 15th century and took more than 100 years to complete.

You'll find evidence of Gothic and Renaissance styles, but one of the most noteworthy features of the cathedral is the frieze on the outside of the apse with more than 70 unique faces.

The Cathedral of St. James can be accessed in two ways. One is from the road that parallels the sea. The second is to come down into the heart of Old Town from St. Michael's Fortress.

I did not know it on my first visit to Sibenik, but I was on a mission to find the cathedral and ended up wandering through a maze of stone alleyways and up and down medieval staircases until I finally emerged on the plaza with the impressive Cathedral at its center. In my opinion, the second way is much more fun. But no matter which way you choose to get there, it's an impressive site.

If you're feeling hungry or thirsty, head down the steps to the riverfront where a selection of open-air cafes away.

Address: Trg Republike Hrvatske 1, 22000, Šibenik, Croatia

One of the newer attractions in Croatia, the Dalmatian Ethno Village provides a first-rate insight into the lives of the area's local people through the centuries.

Part of the Solaris Beach Resort complex, just a few kilometers south of Sibenik, it offers the chance to watch and learn about how traditional foods and baked goods are prepared. You can also sample them, then afterward enjoy a wander around the narrow cobbled streets.

Other highlights of a visit include checking out a 100-year-old watermill, craft fairs, weaving workshops, and an original olive press. You can also visit one of the pretty stone and pebble beaches at the resort while on-site.

Address: Hoteli Solaris 86, HR-22 000 Sibenik, Hrvatska, Croatia

St. Michael's Fortress (Tvrđava sv. Mihovila) is another of the five fortresses in Sibenik and the one from which the city was born.

Constructed during the Middle Ages, it sits atop a hill in the middle of the old town. From the top, you have fantastic panoramic views across the city and out to the Adriatic Sea.

There is also an open-air stage that hosts concerts and other events throughout the year. If you can time your visit with a performance, it is a unique experience.

Address: Zagrađe 21, 22000, Šibenik, Croatia

The splendid old two-story Sibenik Town Hall (Gradska vijecnica), just across the square from the cathedral, is well worth a visit. Famous for its beautiful large columns, arches, and balustrade, this superb example of Renaissance architecture dates from the middle of the 16th century and was built by well-known architect Michele Sanmicheli.

Although largely destroyed during an Allied air raid on Sibenik during WWII, the building was completely rebuilt following the original plans after the war.

Now you'll find a delightful cafe that lives on the ground floor. It's a nice spot to sit and have a coffee while you people watch in the main square. Be on the lookout for one of the many cats who roam the streets here, too.

Address: Trg Republike Hrvatske 3, 22000, Sibenik

Built in the 16th century to defend the port of Sibenik from Turkish attack by sea, St. Nicholas Fortress (Tvrdava Sv. Nikole) is another of the five fortresses in the town and one of only three such forts still in existence in the Mediterranean (the others are in Venice and Malta).

The fortress resembles an arrowhead and was built on the site of a former monastery, on a small island off the mainland. It was designed by the leading Venetian architect Hyeronimus di San Michaela and once boasted an impressive arsenal of 32 cannons.

Now more than 500 years old, this brick and stone fortress remains relatively well-preserved despite its years and can best be seen as part of an organized tour of the city or by private charter.

Address: Info centar Tvrđave sv. Nikole, Obala dr. Franje Tuđmana 4, 22000, Šibenik, Croatia

Just behind Sibenik Cathedral stands the pretty little Church of St. Barbara (Sv. Barbara), home to a small but noteworthy collection of sculptures and paintings dating from the 14th to 18th centuries.

Built in the mid-1600s on the site of an earlier building, this single-nave church is notable for its unique façade, with its irregular-shaped openings, and a 15th-century statue of St. Nicholas by Bonino of Milan. The interior boasts two unique altars: one from the original church, and one that was built later but designed to complement the first.

Another one of the top things to do in town is to pay a visit to the Count's Palace, which is just a short stroll from Sibenik Cathedral. The late Renaissance-era Rector's Palace was originally built to serve as the governor's residence during the 16th-century time of Venetian rule.

Today, the palace houses the Šibenik City Museum (Muzej Grada Sibenika). It's worth visiting for its many local archeological artifacts dating from Neolithic to Roman times, including sculptures (some from the 7th century), a coin collection, and other miscellaneous items from the surrounding region.

Address: Ul. Gradska vrata 3, 22000, Šibenik, Croatia

For something fun to do during the warmer months, check out Aquapark Dalmatia , Croatia's first water park.

It offers a variety of water features in numerous pools, which are family focused, including waterslides, sprinklers, waterfalls, and a lazy river. There is also a special kids' zone with a fairy-tale cave, which creates a fantasy world for little ones. Refreshments, including homemade ice-cream, are also sold on-site.

Address: Hoteli Solaris 86, 22000, Šibenik, Croatia

During the 16th century, Sibenik was one of Europe's best-protected cities with no less than five fortresses protecting it. St. John's Fortress is the city's highest fortress, perched atop a hill some 115 meters above the city center. It takes about 10 minutes of huffing and puffing uphill to reach the old town. Though perhaps it's easier to drive up the hill and park in the parking lot, which is what I did.

Don't be fooled — the first fortress-looking building is the welcome center. Continue up the gravel path to the right to reach the actual fortress and get ready for some impressive views of Sibenik below.

The fortress dates to 1646 when it was constructed to protect Sibenik from Turkish attacks. City residents were so terrified of these invasions that they assisted in the building of the fortress, which was completed in a record six weeks. The views from the top are also stunning.

Restoration work may mean some parts of the fortress aren't currently available for public access, so be sure to check their official website below for details.

Address: Ul. Sedmog kontinenta 27, 22000, Šibenik, Croatia

Established in 1985, the Krka National Park (Nacionalni Park Krka) protects the ecologically important area around the middle and lower sections of the River Krka. As the river flows down from the upper reaches, it meets a series of lakes and rapids, as well as the beautiful Roski Slap and Skradinski Buk waterfalls .

At the center of the park is Lake Visovac , just below the Roski Slap waterfalls, and from here, the Krka River joins up with the River Cikola before flowing over Skradinski Buk and out to sea.

A popular destination for bird watchers, the park is home to some 200 different bird species, including herons and egrets. It also boasts a number of important cultural attractions including the Orthodox Krka Monastery (Arandjelovac), dating from the early 15th century, as well as Samostan Visovac , the island monastery on Lake Visova. Easily accessed from Lozovac and Miljevci, the waterfalls can also be reached by boat from Skradin for a particularly fun outing.

Address: Trg Ivana Pavla II. br.5, 22000 Sibenik, Hrvatska, Croatia

Just 30 kilometers inland from Sibenik is the delightful small town of Drnis, once famous for its 15th-century fort, built as a defense against invasion.

The fort was eventually captured, and Drnis fell to the Turks, who built a number of important structures, including a mosque and Turkish baths. While many of these were later destroyed during fighting in the 16th century, some elements of the occupation can still be seen, including in the church of St. Anthony, built from the remains of the old mosque.

As with many of the fine old buildings found in Sibenik, the Church of St. Francis (Sv. Frane) has been rebuilt and altered numerous times over the centuries. Originally founded in 1229, the church was largely destroyed the following century, although parts of the original cloisters survived and were incorporated into rebuilding that took place in the 16th century.

In the 18th century, the church took on yet another look after being completely rebuilt in Baroque style, and the interior decorated with paintings. Of particular interest inside is a superbly preserved organ built by Petar Nakic in the 1760s.

Address: Trg Nikole Tomaszea 1, Sibenik, Croatia

If you're able to drag yourself from the many fine sights and attractions in Sibenik for a few hours, a visit to the nearby village of Otavice is certainly worth the effort. Just 35 kilometers away, it is in this tiny village that one of the nation's most famous artists was laid to rest, making it a popular pilgrimage site for students of the arts.

Set on a hill overlooking the village, the simple yet striking Church of the Most Holy Redeemer – also known as the Mestrovic Mausoleum – was commissioned by the sculptor to his own design. Completed in 1930, it houses the remains of Ivan Mestrovic and his family, who lived close by.

The interior of the mausoleum is quite striking. Many of the motifs and reliefs were in fact completed by the artist's students, and are well worth seeing. Guided tours are available and highly recommended.

Address: Otavice, 22 322 Ružić, Croatia

The beautiful little town of Primosten is another great day trip from Sibenik. Located about 20 kilometers southeast of Sibenik, this picturesque and utterly unique community spills over from its original island hub onto the mainland, which it's connected to by a causeway.

Seen from a distance, the island itself is so full of splendid old architecture that its buildings seem to consume every available inch of land. This pleasing effect only heightens the pleasure of exploring its wonderful old medieval streets.

Highlights of this fun day trip include visiting the historic town center, enjoying the views from the rocky shoreline over the Adriatic and the mainland, and relaxing on its pebble beaches. You will also want to visit the 15th-century Church of St. George, notable for its old graveyard and fine views.

In Sibenik, you'll find the majority of things to see and do clustered around the historic old town, and you'll find a number of hotel options in all budgets that are within walking distance of top sights like the Sibenik Cathedral. There are also plenty of accommodation options on the beachfront around the city, and this may be the better choice if you are visiting in summer and wish to stay near the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. Here are some top-rated hotels in Sibenik to check out:

Luxury & Mid-Range Hotels :

• The posh D Resort , located behind the super-yacht marina, is where to come for luxe pampering with modern rooms and suites and an on-site spa.
• Another wonderful option is the historic luxe Heritage Hotel Life Palace inside a 15th-century palace in the heart of the old town. It comes complete with frescoes, a wellness area with a hot tub and sauna, and a coffee shop.
• For a more affordable sleep, right on the beach, try the mid-range Amadria Park Ivan . The property is just a short drive from town and has a lovely pool area and spa treatments.

Budget Hotels :

• Hostel Mare is a budget hostel in a great location, just steps to the old town. It boasts friendly owners and clean rooms and attracts plenty of repeat guests.
• Another budget choice is the Pansion Sibenik , which is also in the center of the old city and can only be reached by foot.

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Croatia's Dalmatian Coast: The most popular town on the Dalmatian Coast is Dubrovnik, which is about a three-hour drive to the south. For ideas on what to see here, review our article on the Top Tourist Attractions in Dubrovnik . Another popular tourist destination on the coast is Split , about an hour south of Sibenik and Croatia's second-largest city. You can also check out our article on the attractions and things to do in Croatia for the country's highlights.

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• Dalmatian Ethno Village
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• St. Michael's Fortress
• Aquarium Terrarium Sibenik
• Sokolarski Raptor Centre
• Kornati Experience small group (12 pax) boat tour
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Sibenik is unique among Croatia’s Adriatic towns and cities in that its history lies neither in Roman or Greek origins. Sometimes somewhat overlooked as a tourist destination and, although small (with a population of just over 50,000 people), the town still has some fantastic sights which exist from Venetian times.

Some travellers may well have already ‘seen’ Sibenik before visiting as – along with other locations in Croatia – the town was featured as a filming location for Game of Thrones; Sibenik ‘played’ Braavos in series five. Scenes were filmed in and around sites such as the Cathedral of St James and St John’s Fortress.

The town’s top sight is The Cathedral of St James which is a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Getting to Sibenik

If you’re travelling from elsewhere in Croatia, you should be able to easily find direct buses to Sibenik. If not, travel first to Split or Zadar and then take another bus from there.

Ferry company Jadrolinija offers boat routes from/to the local islands of Zirje, Zlarin, Kaprije and Obonjan as well as to the nearby Vodice on the mainland.

If flying to Croatia to get to Sibenik, you could actually fly to either  Split Airport or Zadar Airport . The journey from either is roughly similar, time-wise, although Split is probably marginally closer. There are also more flights to Split from the UK and Europe, so you might find it easier to fly there.

From Split or Zadar Airports

If you’re arriving at Split Airport , take a bus from outside the terminal building to the main bus station in Split. Buses are scheduled to depart shortly after flight arrivals. Then, from Split Bus Station , take one of the numerous buses to Sibenik; the journey time is about 1 hour 40 minutes.

For details of which airlines fly to Split from the UK and Europe, see our Getting to Split  page.

From Zadar Airport, take a bus to the main bus station in Zadar; once again, bus departures coincide with flight arrivals. From Zadar bus station , take another bus to Sibenik – journey time is about 2 hours.

See our Getting to North Dalmatia page for information on flights to Zadar from the UK and Europe.

History of Sibenik

Sibenik is the oldest Slavic town on the Croatian coast, possibly dating from the 11th century, although Croats had reached the surrounding area a few centuries earlier.

The town intermittently switched between Croatian and Venetian rule over the following few centuries, with the longest period being under the Venetians from 1412 to 1797. During this time, the town grew in importance and for a while during the 16th century, it became the largest town in Dalmatia.

After the fall of Venice, Sibenik briefly became French for eight years, before becoming part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until its break up after World War I. At this point, Sibenik became part of the newly-formed Yugoslavia.

During the war in Croatia in the early 1990s, Sibenik was shelled and a number of buildings were damaged, including some historic ones. All were subsequently repaired.

Sightseeing in Sibenik

Take a look at our special section on Sightseeing in Sibenik to see all the best sights in this lovely town!

Events in Sibenik

The International Children’s Festival is one of the town’s most famous events; first held in 1958, the streets and squares are given over the children’s entertainment including theatre performances, puppetry, music, book readings and more.

The Regius Festival is a 2-day music event featuring performers from Croatia and neighbouring countries that takes place in July.

Supertoon is an animation and comic book festival held every July.

Seasplash is a long-running reggae, dubstep, drum ‘n’ bass (and more!) music festival that takes place in Sibenik in July.

The town hosts a Medieval Fair each September – harking back to days long ago – at the same time that it celebrates its patron saint, St Michael.

Adventura is Sibenik’s Christmas fair held in December/January in Roberto Visiani Park, with live music, food and drink, homemade products to purchase and other festive features.

Eating and Drinking in Sibenik

One of the best-loved places in town is Pelegrini , a Michelin-starred restaurant (one of the few in Croatia!) that offers beautifully presented seafood, fish and meat dishes. Some wonderful tasting menus are available.

Pluto’s Burger Bar is the place to go if you’re hankering after tasty burgers and fries – they have a wide range of different burgers on their menu.

Restaurant Pjat is another top choice for excellent, lovingly presented Croatian and Mediterranean dishes, with friendly service and in a pretty location.

Konoba Marenda is a very reasonably priced place offering tasty local dishes.

Na Ma Lo is a relaxing place for coffee by day or wine or cocktails in the evening, or try Majstor & Margarita for similar.

Head to KaGrom Ice Cream Shop for a post-meal treat!

Accommodation in Sibenik

Please see our Accommodation in Sibenik  page for details of hotels, apartments and private accommodation options in the town.

General info

The area code is 022.

The Tourist Office in Sibenik is at Fausta Vrancica 18, 22000 Šibenik, Tel: 022 212 075, Fax: 022 219 073, Email: [email protected]

More info at the Sibenik Tourist Office website .

Buy a Sibenik Card which gives you free entrance to attractions such as the St James’ Cathedral and St Michael’s Fortress, plus discounts for tours, restaurants and bars and accommodation.

You can explore biking and hiking routes in Sibenik-Knin county on the Bike & Hike website.

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15 Things To Do in Sibenik, Croatia

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Sibenik, Croatia is an absolute gem! The historic hillside town is tucked along the Dalmatian Coast under the gaze of three fortresses. Narrow, cobblestone lanes weave through the Sibenik Old Town taking visitors past centuries-old churches and into vast squares. Top attractions in the Old Town are St. Michael Fortress and Sibenik Cathedral – as well as the nearby Krka Waterfalls – but there are many more incredible things to do in Sibenik, Croatia. 

In fact, we think that Sibenik is one of the best places to visit in Croatia . We have visited Sibenik on day trip adventures and have made it our base for a week-long trip. From our personal experiences, we are highlighting the Best Things To Do in Sibenik, Croatia!

Sibenik, Croatia FAQs

First, we are answering a few of the most frequently asked questions and sharing some of the need-to-know details that will help make planning your trip to Sibenik easy!

Where is Sibenik, Croatia?

The first thing most travelers wonder is, Where is Sibenik located?

Sibenik, Croatia is located on the Central Dalmatia Coast, about halfway between Split and Zadar . The city marks the spot where the Krka River flows into the Adriatic Sea. 

Sibenik is north of Split. To get from Split to Sibenik, it takes about 1.5 hours by car (less if using toll roads), while buses from Split to Sibenik take closer to 2 hours.

How Do You Pronounce Sibenik? 

The Croatian spelling is Šibenik – the S has a small V over the top of it. That letter is said Sh , like in the English word shoe . Therefore, the Sibenik pronunciation is Shibenik .

Is Sibenik Worth Visiting?

We think know so! The seaside town is far less crowded than other popular Dalmatian destinations – like Dubrovnik and Split – but there are still many Sibenik attractions to entertain visitors. 

How Many Days in Sibenik, Croatia? 

Determining how many days to spend in Sibenik is a tough decision – and it really depends on your interests, travel style and overall Croatia trip itinerary. Travelers who are short on time can easily see the Old Town sights highlighted in our Sibenik guide in just a few hours. 

However, Sibenik, Croatia also makes a fabulous base for a vacation. Visitors who opt to stay in Sibenik can discover more of the lesser-visited (but no less beautiful) region on day trips from Sibenik. 

We recommend reading through our list of Sibenik must-see sights to help you decide if you want to spend one day in Sibenik or longer. Then, use our tips of things to do to make the most of your holidays to Sibenik, Croatia.

Planning What To Do in Sibenik, Croatia

There is a lot more to planning your trip to Sibenik, Croatia than deciding what to do and see. We share tips on things to eat, where to stay and what to pack. 

Visitors traveling to Sibenik, Croatia from abroad should start by reading our tips for How To Plan your Croatia Vacation . Additionally, if you need ideas for how to plan your route through the country, take a look at our Croatia Itinerary . 

As you plan your vacation to Croatia, organization is key! Use our Travel Planner printables to stay on top of all the necessary details!

Sibenik History

Before we dive into our list of top Sibenik, Croatia things to do, it helps to understand the history of the city. The area was first settled by Croats in the 7th century. Two centuries later, as the town’s importance increased due to its strategic port, a protective fort was constructed .

In the years that followed, Sibenik fell under various control – Hungarian, Venetian, Ottoman, Austrian, French (under Napoleon) and Yugoslavian.

The city was expanded, destroyed by both war and fire, and then rebuilt. The result is a charming, yet compact, hillside community with an astonishing number of churches and remnants of the fortifications.

Today, visitors explore historic Sibenik with a sense of wonder. While the Sibenik population is close to 35,000, Old Town Sibenik feels more like a village. 

15 Best Things To Do in Sibenik, Croatia

As we already mentioned, on our first trip to the city, we spent one day in Sibenik – which is just long enough to see a few top attractions (and we highlight those in our list first).

On our return week-long stay, we discovered a multitude of Sibenik things to do – from island-hopping boat trips to coastal walks to hidden gems. Fellow travelers can use our guide of what to see in Sibenik to plan their perfect trip!

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Sibenik travel blog post so that you can use it while planning your trip to Croatia!

#1 Sibenik Cathedral

The enormous and impressive St. James Cathedral Sibenik, Croatia is a must-see! The church – made completely from stone – dates to the 15th century; it was built over a 100-year period from 1431 to 1535. The cathedral is a Sibenik UNESCO Heritage site. The grand, towering dome can be seen from afar – and the up-close view is just as impressive. Standing on the steps, the intricately designed main façade of the church looms large overhead. 

Visiting Sibenik St. James Cathedral

The interior of the St. James Cathedral Sibenik is open to visitors, but requires a ticket. Sibenik Cathedral opening hours vary by season. In the high summer season, the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sibenik should be open during the hours of 9:30am to 6:30pm.

What To See at St. James Cathedral Croatia

Inside the dark interior of the church are ornate side altars and an extraordinary main altar. However, the highlight of the church is the baptistery, which is to the right of the main altar. The small room features incredibly detailed carvings.

On the cathedral exterior, look for the humorous statues of Adam and Eve on the side portico (facing the large square).

Another interesting and notable feature of the Cathedral of St. James in Sibenik are the 71 stone-carved heads. Find them in a line protruding from the rear of the church.

Across the square, opposite the church, is the elegant Sibenik Town Hall, which was built in the 16th century. The building – styled with pillars and arches – had to be completely rebuilt after it was destroyed in World War II. 

#2 Sibenik Fortresses – St. Michael, Barone and St. John

Once a heavily fortified city, there are four remaining fortresses in Sibenik. Three of these Sibenik fortresses (St. Michael’s Fort, Barone Fort and St. John’s Fort) sit on hills above town and one is on the sea (St. Nicholas Fort).

For many years, Sibenik’s forts sat in various states of disrepair – but now they are open to explore. In fact, visitors can purchase a combo ticket that allows entrance into all three Sibenik forts on land.

St. Michael Fortress Sibenik

A prominent fortress hovering above Sibenik, St. Michael Fort has existed in some form since the Iron Age. The strategic position made St. Michael one of the most important fortresses for Sibenik.

The St. Michael Fortress was the first of the fortresses in Sibenik, Croatia to be restored (in 2014). However, rather than recreating every historic detail of the Medieval Sibenik Castle, the interior was redesigned to host an open-air stage and 1,000+ seat auditorium (making it a unique place to see a concert).

Visit Sibenik St. Michael Fortress

Sitting above the town like a wedding cake topper, the St. Michael Fort is easily located. Visitors can simply follow the signs up the inclined lanes from the Sibenik center. Entry tickets are required to access St. Michael’s Fortress Sibenik year round. 

Sibenik Fortress Barone and St. John

Both the Barone Fortress and St. John’s fortress date to the mid-1600s, when Sibenik was under Venetian rule. The forts were built to defend the city from the Ottomans. However, the fortress was not built by the Venetians, but rather by the people of Sibenik. 

In fact, with an impending invasion, both fortresses were built in just 58 days. As intended, the forts helped to secure the city and the Ottomans were forced to retreat. 

Visiting Barone and St. John’s Fortresses in Sibenik

The restored Barone Fortress is an interesting place to visit in Sibenik. In addition to the reconstructed fort and fine sea views, guests are able to experience the fort in the past via an augmented reality digital tour. The fort also features a café, gift shop and a kids playground.

St. John’s Fortress, which is the highest Sibenik, Croatia fort, was used as part of the city’s defense system through the Yugoslav era. Although it fell to partial ruins, a complete renovated was finished in 2022 and it is now open to the public 

There is one combo ticket to visit both Barone and St. John’s Fortress, but it is free to visit during the off-season. Visitors can also purchase the 3-fort ticket that includes St. Michael Fort as well. 

Pro Tip : Visitors can go to the Sibenik fortresses on their own or let a guide lead the way on a guided trekking tour !

#3 Sibenik Beach

Some of the top things to see in Sibenik are not historic structures, but beaches! The closest beach to the city is Banj Beach Sibenik, which is just 1km north of the Old Town. The beach is comprised of small pebbles and there is a restaurant on-site as well. The water is warm and clean and ideal for swimming and visitors can rent loungers and sun umbrellas. 

However, what we love most about this beach are the spectacular Sibenik city views from across the water. 

More Beaches in Sibenik

While Banj is the closest, there are other Sibenik, Croatia beaches outside of the channel. The top Sibenik beaches outside the channel are Rezaliste Beach and Beach Srima. 

The best beaches near Sibenik, however, are in the neighboring town of Vodice (which we talk about later) and the Beaches in Split .

#4 St. Ana Cemetery

When considering what to do in Sibenik, touring a cemetery might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, the St. Ana Cemetery, located next to the St. Michael Fortress, should be on every list of Sibenik things to do.

One of the lesser-known Sibenik sights, the hillside graveyard has elevated grave sites and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. Views to the north of the cemetery fall on St. John’s Fortress. 

#5 St. Lawrence Monastery Sibenik

While Sibenik sightseeing, another retreat from the narrow, old town lanes is the Medieval Monastery Garden of St. Lawrence. The colorful and fragrant garden, which is enclosed by walls, was opened to the public in 2007 as a Sibenik park.

Walk past the café at the entrance into the main garden; it’s public space and free to enter. The design replicates the type of garden that the monks would have planted.

Cave Grotto at St. Lawrence Monastery

The Church of St. Lawrence was built in the 17th century; the crumbling bell tower remains rise above the garden. Near the monastery entrance (below the garden) is the Lourdes Grotto. Inside the cave is a statue of Mary.

#6 Sibenik Game of Thrones Tour

Many of the scenes for the popular TV show, Game of Thrones, were filmed in Croatia – including the town of Sibenik. Fans of Game of Thrones can create their own Sibenik tour to the sights that appeared in the show.

The city was used as a filming location for GOT Season 5. The top two Sibenik, Croatia Game of Thrones sights are the Cathedral of St. James and St. John’s Fortress.

#7 Sibenik Old Town (and many more Sibenik Churches)

Sibenik is a spectacular jumble of Old Town lanes. We were absolutely enamored by the streets that led to hidden cafes, tucked away playgrounds and a fascinating display of historic architecture.

We often wandered aimlessly, allowing our senses to lead the way, but other visitors might want to join a Sibenik tour ( find out more! ).

Sibenik Churches

On our walks, we never strolled far before stumbling onto yet another Sibenik church. Our Sibenik map (which we obtained from the Sibenik Tourist Information Office: MAP ) identifies 17 churches, 14 of which are located within the Old Town. Unfortunately, many of the churches are closed to the public – but the ones that are open are well-worth a quick visit.

We recommend popping into the Church of St. Francis, which has an accompanying museum. If, by chance, the small Church of St. Nikole is open, go in to see the well-decorated interior.

More Sibenik Sights To See

The historic Croatian National Theater in Sibenik is an architectural gem – and visitors should definitely take time to seek it out. 

The Sibenik City Museum – which is located near the cathedral – is another worthwhile stop while navigating through the Old Town. The museum details the history of Sibenik through artifacts and interesting exhibits. 

Pro Tip : The best time to walk through the Old Town is in the morning, when there are few people and the light is soft.

#8 Sibenik Marina and Waterfront

One of the best reasons to visit Sibenik is for its seaside location. Benches line the pedestrian walkway bordering the Old Town – and several cafes are found along the walk, selling ice cream, coffee, beer and wine. Getting an ice cream cone and walking along the water is one of the top Sibenik, Croatia things to do!

Once you check off your list of what to see in Sibenik, walk the length of the town along the waterfront to the north toward Banj Beach. Along the way, pass small fishing boats and quaint cafes with tables spilling out to the water’s edge. Just before the beach, there is an elevated lookout point that offers stunning views of the cathedral, fortress and Old Town.

#9 Croatia Waterfalls: Day Trip from Sibenik to Krka Waterfalls

A Sibenik waterfalls trip to Krka National Park is the most popular Sibenik tour. The water glides and tumbles until it thunders over Skradinski Buk, the largest waterfall in Krka Park. 

The cute town of Skradin , which serves as the main entrance to the Krka Waterfall Park, is located just 11 miles from Sibenik – and there are a few options of how to get there.

Krka NP Tour from Sibenik

Visitors can book a private tour from Sibenik to Krka Waterfalls, which is a hassle-free way to see the natural wonder at your desired pace. Get the details!

DIY Sibenik Day Trip to Krka

Alternatively, visitors can organize their own day trip from Sibenik to Krka NP. Several buses depart from Sibenik to Skradin and from Sibenik to Lozovac (a second park entrance). Check the current bus schedules at the Sibenik Bus Station – and use the tips in our article, Day Trip to Krka National Park .

Sibenik to Krka by Boat

In the summertime, visitors can depart from Sibenik by boat for a tour of Krka. Find more details from the boat company kiosks at the Sibenik Harbor.

Pro Tip : Plitvice Lakes National Park is another one of Croatia’s natural wonders. Although quite a bit further than Krka NP, visitors staying in Sibenik can join an organized tour to Plitvice. 

#10 Sibenik Boat Tours to Kornati 

Sibenik day trips on the water are ideal – and the Kornati National Park and Archipelago is top destination from Sibenik. Comprised of 89 islands, a boat tour through the Kornati National Park is an extraordinary adventure.

Most of the Sibenik boat trips to Kornati Islands include swimming, snorkeling, hiking and dolphin spotting. Small-group boat trips from Sibenik – like this one! – get rave reviews. 

#11 Sibenik Islands

While the Kornati Islands are preserved as a national park, there are several islands just off the coast of Sibenik where people live and work. The largest islands – Zlarin, Kaprije, Zirje and Prvic – are well-connected to the mainland with regular ferry service, which is perfect for an island hopping Sibenik adventure! 

However, the islands can also be explored by private boats and Croatian Island Hopping sailboat tours.

Ferry to Otok Kaprije

On our trip, we opted to take the ferry to Kaprije Island. While the island is long and slender, we were content exploring the south part of the island on foot. Top things to see on Kaprije are the Church of St. Peter and adjoining cemetery, Portic public beach and Mala Nozdra beach cove.

We also trekked to the top of the hill (following the path from the church cemetery), which culminated in sweeping views of the sea.

Pro Tip : The Sibenik ferry Line 532 stops at Zlarin, Kaprije and Zirje, making it easy for passengers to catch a ride to one – or more – islands in a day!

Sibenik Archipelago Boat Tours

While the public ferries in Sibenik are an affordable and efficient way to get around the Sibenik island archipelago, boat tours are, perhaps, a more enthralling way to experience island hopping in Sibenik.

Visitors can book a Sibenik excursion on a private, skippered boat to explore the offshore islands – Find out more! Or, for a romantic cruise around the islands, guests can head out on a sunset sailboat trip – Book it now!

#12 Coastal Towns: Vodice and Primosten

Exploring the coastal towns on the mainland near Sibenik, HR is a wonderful way to discover more of the region. 

Vodice from Sibenik

Vodice, Croatia is another town along the Dalmatian Coast, just north of Sibenik. Although it has a quaint Old Town complete with a church and cobblestone lanes, the area also has modern features. Top things to do in Vodice are visit the pristine beaches, nearby ruins and a vibrant nightlife.

Pro Tip : Visitors can get to Vodice by bus or boat. We prefer taking the ferry (because the scenery is simply stunning!). Sibenik ferries to Vodice also make stops at Zlarin and Prvic Islands. However, visitors who would rather take the Vodice-Sibenik Bus can find a current schedule at the bus station.

Sibenik to Primosten

The town of Primosten is located to the south of Sibenik. Once an islet, the channel was filled in during the 1500s to connect the island to the mainland. The top things to do in Primosten are spending time at the beautiful beaches and feasting on local fare. 

Pro Tip: Primosten is also easily accessible from Split, Croatia , which is where we were staying when we visited.

More Nearby Sibenik, Croatia Day Trip Destinations

Zadar and Trogir are other cities that can be visited on a day trip from Sibenik. Zadar is about 90km from Sibenik and buses take a little more than an hour to cover the distance between the two cities. The distance from Trogir to Sibenik is about 50km and the Trogir-Sibenik Bus takes just over an hour.

#13 St. Nicholas Fortress Sibenik

The Sibenik St. Nicholas Fortress is the sea fort in Sibenik that sits on the west end of the narrow St. Anthony Canal. The Tvrdava Sv Nikole was built as part of the complete defensive system in the city.

Constructed in the 16th century, the Sibenik St. Nicholas Fortress is another Sibenik sight on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Fort visits are only permitted by joining organized boat tours (which unfortunately only run in the summer season).

#14 St. Anthony Channel Walk

The St. Anthony Canal is located directly across the water from the Sibenik Old Town – with the St. Nicolas Fortress guarding the far end where the channel opens to the sea. Boat trips departing for the Sibenik Islands sail through the canal.

A newly constructed walking path lines the south side of the channel – from St. Nicholas Fort all the way to the Mandalina Marina near the Sibenik city center.

The Sibenik canal walk features impressive vistas and a few sights along the way. In addition to views of the exterior of the fort, visitors can also explore historic bunkers, an ancient church in a cave, and an old military boat and submarine tunnel.

Pro Tip : While the St. Anthony Channel Trail is one of our favorite things to do in Sibenik, it is a little difficult to get there without a car. We took the public bus to Zablace, then walked to the fort. From the St. Nicholas Fort, we walked the entire length of the canal…then all the way back to Sibenik (allow at least 4 hours for this walk).

#15 Sunset from a Sibenik Fortress

Sunsets in Sibenik are spectacular. Watching the sunset from the shoreline is nice, but taking in the sunset near one of the elevated forts is even better.

Visitors can scout out a viewing spot near the Sibenik forts for taking in the most impeccable views. We recommend bringing a blanket to sit on (and maybe a bottle of wine…just take your trash with you!).

More Things To Do in Sibenik, Croatia

Our list of things to do in Sibenik kept us busy for an entire week! That said, there are a few more things to see in Sibenik that other visitors might want to add to their itinerary. 

Aquarium Sibenik

The small Sibenik Aquarium is situated in the heart of the Old Town. The aquarium-terrarium features fish and small reptiles that reside in the sea, rivers and nearby lakes.

Bungee Jumping Sibenik

Thrill-seekers might be interested in the Sibenik Bungee Jump from the Sibenik Bridge. The Sibenik Most straddles that Krka River north of the city.

Aquapark Dalmatia

A small waterpark with slides and a lazy river, the Dalmatia Aquapark is fun for the whole family (especially on a hot day!). 

Zipline Sibenik

An exhilarating adventure, the Sibenik Zipline is located in the beautiful Cikola Canyon. The 1.4 km zipline allows participants to zip through the forest surrounded in exquisite scenery. Book it here!  

Events in Sibenik

The city of Sibenik hosts numerous events – especially in the summertime. 

One of the top events – that families visiting Croatia may want to plan their time around – is the International Children Festival. The 2-week festival is one of the best events dedicated to kids in all of Europe. 

Other Sibenik events during the summertime are music festival and concerts, like the Seasplash Festival, the Jazz and Blues Fest and SunceBeat. 

Sibenik Map of Attractions

Use this link to Google Maps for our Sibenik, Croatia map online. Visitors can pick up a free Sibenik tourist map at the TI.

Sibenik Travel Tips

Now that you know all of the best things to do in Sibenik, we have a few more tips for your trip!

Travel Tips for Sibenik, Croatia

There is so much more to planning a Sibenik trip than deciding what to do! We are sharing a few tips – like the best restaurants in Sibenik, how to get there, where to stay and what to pack. 

Pro Tip:  Get (and stay) organized for your Vacation to Croatia by using our Trip Planning Printables ! 

Restaurant Sibenik: Where To Eat

There are numerous Sibenik, Croatia restaurants located in the Old Town. However, being that Sibenik is still a very seasonal destination, many of the best restaurants in Sibenik were closed during our autumn visits. The following Sibenik restaurants are the places we look forward to trying on our next trip!

Konoba Nostalgija

The small family-run Konoba Nostalgija features a daily menu of traditional food at affordable prices.

Pluto’s Burger Bar

People rave about the burgers at Pluto’s Burger Bar – and we hear the fries are really good, too! 

Ka Grom Ice Cream

There are ice cream shops all over Sibenik, but Ka Grom is consistently ranked as the best place to get ice cream in the city! 

Pelegrini Sibenik

Pelegrini is one of the few Michelin Star restaurants in Croatia. They stay open year round and offer superb al fresco tables with a view of the cathedral, their menu is on the pricey side. 

Shopping Sibenik

Visitors who want to pick up a few souvenirs will find numerous shops and art galleries throughout the Old Town.

Sibenik Market

On the south side of the center near the bus station, is the daily Sibenik Market, Pijaca. The outdoor produce market, which is only open in the morning, is a colorful place to pick up a few local specialties.

Pro Tip : Guests staying in the city longer than a day or two might want to stop by a Sibenik Supermarket. Our preferred grocery store in Sibenik is Tommy, just outside the old town.

Shopping Center Sibenik

The Sibenik shopping center that is closest to the Old Town is City Life. However, the larger Dalmare mall is south of the Old Town.

Getting to Sibenik

Sibenik can be reached by car or bus. There is no Sibenik Airport (but the Split Airport is nearby). 

For visitors driving their own car (or a rental car ), there are two main lots and street parking in Sibenik; both options cost. Travelers staying overnight should inquire at their accommodations for the best overnight parking options for their car rental .

Pro Tip : Travelers can take a taxi from Split to Sibenik, but it is pricey. Check fares and book private transfers online .

Bus Station Sibenik

The bus station in Sibenik is conveniently located right on the south end of the Old Town. There is a helpful information desk at the station where visitors can get schedules and bus information.

Pro Tip: Flixbus  is our favored bus company, but there are other bus companies in Croatia with more routes.

Flights to Sibenik

There is no Sibenik, Croatia airport. The closest airport to Sibenik is the Split Airport (SPU). Search for the best deals on flights  to Croatia on  Skyscanner !

The cheapest way to get from the airport to Sibenik is by bus. Taxis are expensive, but faster. Travelers arriving at the Split Airport can also organize private transfers to Sibenik online in advance. 

Pro Tip : The Zadar Airport (ZAD) is also close to Sibenik. Travelers can book a shuttle from the Zadar Airport to Sibenik in advance online .

Sibenik Train

There is a train in Sibenik, but the railway only goes inland to a few small towns. There is no Split-Sibenik Train.

Where To Stay in Sibenik, Croatia

During our visit to Sibenik, we stayed in an Airbnb Apartment . We have often found that Airbnb apartments are less expensive – yet more spacious and with benefits like a kitchen and local tips from your host.

Hotels in Sibenik, Croatia

There are plenty of choices of Sibenik hotels – but before you make reservations, be sure to read our tips on Booking the Best Hotels . We are highlighting two of the top-rated hotels for your stay in Sibenik.

The Bellevue Superior City Hotel Sibenik offers modern sea-facing rooms at reasonable prices – check availability for your trip !

The Adults Only Heritage Sibenik Hotel King Kresimir, located in the historic Old Town, also gets rave reviews – Check current rates !

Start your search for the best hotel in Sibenik, Croatia on Booking.com !

Sibenik, Croatia Weather

Sibenik enjoys a Mediterranean climate – meaning the weather is pleasant year-round. The summertime is filled with sunshine, while the winters are cooler and sometimes rainy – but still enjoyable.

Sibenik Tourist Information

There is a Sibenik Tourism Office on the waterfront, just north of the stairs that lead up to the cathedral. They offer maps of Sibenik and other helpful information, too.

What To Pack for Sibenik, Croatia

We have a few final travel tips and packing hacks from your trip to Croatia – but you can find all of our advice on our Travel Packing Tips page. You can also grab your FREE Packing Checklist here !

Comfortable Shoes

The Sibenik city center is located on a hillside – and the lanes that weave through town are paved with slick stones. Visitors should be sure to bring a pair of comfortable travel shoes . I like wearing these shoes by Columbia – and Kris prefers wearing Merrell shoes for any exploration.

Weather Appropriate Gear

Summer travelers will want to make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen ! It is also a good idea to bring a wrap (to cover your shoulders if touring churches) that also doubles as a beach towel and picnic blanket.

It gets hot in Croatia, so bring a refillable water bottle (the water is safe to drink!); this collapsible water bottle is ideal for traveling.

Travelers visiting outside of the summer season should be prepared for foul weather with a travel umbrella and lightweight raincoat .

Croatia Travel Camera

Sibenik is a beautiful city to photograph! We recommend upgrading to an actual camera for your trip to Croatia (rather than using your phone camera!). We use a Canon Rebel with everyday 18-135mm lens , which is a great beginner budget DSLR for travelers .

Day Pack for Sibenik

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you will also want a great day bag to organize all of your daily travel items !

Croatia Travel Insurance

If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip to Croatia, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Croatia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

Visiting other Croatia Destinations?

Croatia is a fascinating place to visit – and you won’t want to miss the best sights! Use the helpful tips on our city guides. 

• Things To Do in Dubrovnik
• Self Guided Split Walking Tour
• What To Do in Zagreb
• The Best of the Makarska Riviera
• Best Tips for Visiting Hvar Town
• What To See on Korcula Island

Find all of our guides to the top cities in Croatia on our Croatia Travel Guides Page . 

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10 Amazing things to do in Sibenik, Croatia

Discover all the incredible things to do in Sibenik. A perfect day trip from Split to Sibenik exploring this stunning UNESCO Site town.

Last Update: December 4, 2023

• Destination

We love Šibenik and truly believe that it is unmissable while exploring Croatia. This Šibenik Guide will introduce you to the Unesco World Heritage Fairytales town on the Adriatic Coast of Croatia. There are countless things to do in Šibenik, which is unbelievable for such a small place. The old town is very charming and offers many activities, including historic landmarks, natural wonders, and delicious local cuisine.  This guide will explore the top places to visit in Šibenik and some cool activities. So come with us to discover one of Croatia’s most underrated hidden gems.

Where is Šibenik, Croatia

You might not know, but Šibenik is the centre of the action and could be a middle point in your Croatia itinerary . Whether you are looking for the beaches in Split or backpacking to Dubrovnik , Šibenik could be included in your itinerary.

The city is on Croatia’s central coast, in the Dalmatia region. It is about 80 kilometres north of Split and about 50 kilometres south of Zadar . The old town is trendy, surrounded by a fantastic natural landscape, gorgeous beaches, and a short distance from Krka National Park and the Kornati Islands. Within an hour, you can reach Split for a fantastic day trip or explore the islands even further.

What is the best time to visit Sibenik, Croatia?

The best time to visit Šibenik is definitely Spring or late summer. If you are looking for warm weather and plenty of sunshine, the summer months of June, July, and August are the best time to visit. However, besides the fantastic beaches, the con is that you might have to deal with many crowds. Visiting Croatia in summer can be very expensive, and you should look for accommodation well in advance.

Consider the shoulder season for cooler weather and more affordable holidays in Croatia. You will have a great time and fewer people around in May, September, and October. Even though it is a side season, the weather is still pleasant, and fewer tourists make it easier to explore the city’s attractions. 

If you consider visiting Croatia in winter, we suggest looking into December, January and February. 

Šibenik can be cold and rainy, but it can also be a great time to explore the city’s indoor attractions, such as museums and galleries. We must admit that even if colder, the Christmassy atmosphere can be pleasant, making a walk around charming and perfect for a winter getaway in Europe.

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This post may contain affiliate links or Sponsored Links ( read our Cookie Policy ), and useful experiences that we love to suggest to you. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are really grateful) at no extra cost to you. Click on it will help us run this website for you, for FREE, funding our project and continuing to travel, informing curious explorers.

How to get to Šibenik 

Šibenik is easily accessible by car, bus, train, and plane. The city is located approximately 80 kilometres north of Split and 90 kilometres south of Zadar. If you are arriving by plane, the closest airport is Split Airport, approximately 60 kilometres from Šibenik. In addition, several bus and train lines connect Šibenik to other major cities in Croatia.

Airports nearby Sibenik

Split Airport (SPU) – The closest airport to Sibenik is 60 kilometres south of the city. The distance from Split Airport to Sibenik is approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Zadar Airport (ZAD) – The most common alternative airport for Sibenik is Zadar. It is about 90 kilometres north of Sibenik. However, you must account for about 2 hours to travel between the two cities by car.

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) – Approximately 280 kilometres southeast of Sibenik. The driving time from Dubrovnik Airport to Sibenik is approximately 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

What Makes Šibenik Unique

The city is full of activities and, on top of them, the architectural and cultural side of Šibenik. Walking around the old town, you will step back in time through narrow alleys and cobblestone passages that make their way to the seaside. This might be when you realise that Sibenik is a hidden gem in Croatia.

The mellow and carefree atmosphere is ideal for travellers seeking peaceful European destinations . If you want to unwind after long months working hard or get tired after travelling around Croatia, go to Šibenik and spend a few days relaxing, cradling by the waves and fresh sea breeze. As you understand, the endless richness of culture, history, natural wonders, beautiful beaches, and hundreds of islands provide many things to do in the Šibenik region. We assure you that even if you visit Šibenik for a day trip , you will love it.

10 Things to do in Šibenik, Croatia

Step inside the charming šibenik cathedral, roam around the old town, seabreeze on sibenik promenade, visit the fortress of st. nicholas, indulge in the local cuisine, visit the medieval mediterranean garden of st. lawrence monastery.

• Dive into the local culture

Shop until you drop

• Sip a drink on the promenade at sunset
• Swim and Relax on Šibenik’s Beaches

What to do in Sibenik

Šibenik’s old town comprises a labyrinth of winding alleys, historic edifices, and delightful plazas. Dotted with time-honoured landmarks, including the UNESCO-acclaimed Šibenik Cathedral, the enclave bears witness to the city’s rich cultural heritage. It is highly recommended that you partake in a leisurely promenade along the quaint cobblestone streets of the bygone district, savouring the unmistakable ambience of the locality.

Marvel at Sibenik City Hall

The City Hall of Šibenik is a Renaissance masterpiece that exudes a sense of serene elegance, located in the pulsating heart of the Republic of Croatia’s mediaeval Square. Erected over a period spanning from 1533 to 1546, this iconic edifice boasts a stunning facade adorned with an array of majestic columns, arches, balustrades, and a charming balcony.

The lower level of this awe-inspiring structure houses a delightful local restaurant, which features a remarkable outdoor terrace providing an unparalleled vista of the St. James’ Cathedral. It is an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Šibenik.

Although the City Hall was entirely levelled during an allied air raid in 1943, it was meticulously rebuilt and now looks exactly like it did before World War II.

Undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in Šibenik, St. James’ Cathedral is a resplendent monument to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Its awe-inspiring construction, spanning the 15th and 16th centuries, is widely renowned for its unparalleled architectural grandeur, featuring a stunning dome crafted entirely out of stone. Beyond its sheer beauty, the cathedral also houses many significant works of art, including a striking statue of St. James himself.

As a testament to its undeniable significance, the Šibenik Cathedral has earned the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its unparalleled construction, entirely devoid of binding materials, makes it a true marvel of mediaeval engineering and the only cathedral in the world to be built entirely using mediaeval techniques. A visit to this magnificent structure is an absolute must for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history of Šibenik and to witness firsthand one of the most breathtaking architectural achievements of the 15th and 16th centuries.

The Šibenik Promenade is a breathtakingly beautiful path that hugs the coastline and affords visitors panoramic vistas of the city and the surrounding countryside. Non less, a stroll along the promenade is one of the unmissable things to do in Sibenik and is a feast for the senses as you take in the sea breeze, the warmth of the sun, and the delightful scents wafting from the nearby cafes and restaurants. The promenade is the perfect destination whether you’re looking for a leisurely day out or a romantic evening walk.

Discover the many battles fought here, the intricate defences that kept the enemy at bay, and the stories of the brave men who fought to protect their homes. With stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and fascinating history, the Fortress of St. Nicholas is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Šibenik. Built to protect the city from Turkish invaders, this imposing structure has stood the test of time and is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its builders. You can revive the battles, stories and legends behind St. Nicholas Fortress on a guided tour from Sibenik .

Reserve your spot here!

If you’re a food lover, then Šibenik is your perfect destination. The city is renowned for its delectable cuisine that blends Mediterranean and Dalmatian flavours most delightfully. From fresh seafood to succulent meats, Šibenik offers an extensive range of culinary delights that will tantalise your taste buds. Join a local food tour with a guide that will show you the best traditional Croatian dishes.

Where to eat in Šibenik

Šešula | Specialised in Seafood and is located on the promenade.

Gradska Vijecnica |  Located in the fantastic square in front of Sibenik Town Hall. The scenery is breathtaking, and the meal is just fantastic in the traditional Croatian style.

Marvel at Sibenik Town Hall

The fantastic landmark of Sibenik is located in the main square. It is lovely to visit during the day and at night. The stunning architecture reminds us of the Venetian style you might also experience on Hvar Island , but with fine details and a less tall building. Also, you can see similarities between Split main square and its town hall. The building is a 16th-century structure standing in a mediaeval square, impossible to miss while visiting Sibenik.

Nestled in the heart of Šibenik lies a true treasure waiting to be discovered. The Medieval Mediterranean Garden of St. Lawrence Monastery is a serene oasis that transports you back in time to a bygone era. This hidden gem is a must-see for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike , offering a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Dive into the local culture | Traditional Dalmatian Klapa Singing Performance

Klapa singing is a traditional cappella singing characteristic of Croatia’s Dalmatia area. Šibenik offers a unique opportunity to experience this traditional form of cappella music that has been passed down through generations. You can witness the power of harmonious voices blending seamlessly, transporting you to a world of nostalgia and wonder.

You can witness klapa singing performances in various locations in Šibenik, primarily practised in local churches; you might be lucky to find performances through the streets of the old town or in the main square. Even though it is not unusual, we believe it is an unforgettable experience in Croatia and worth making it into our top list of things to do in Sibenik.

Sibenik is known for its rich tradition of handicrafts, with many local artisans producing high-quality goods using traditional techniques. Some of the best-handcrafted products produced in Sibenik include:

• Coral jewellery | Sibenik is known for its coral jewellery, made from the local red coral found in the waters surrounding the city.
• Olive wood products | Surrounding the Unesco-protected town, there is an extensive production of olives. The groves serve mainly for local consumption making the products unique and impossible to find back home.
• Crocheted lace | Sibenik is home to many skilled lace-makers who produce delicate and intricate crocheted lace using traditional techniques.
• Pottery | With a long tradition of pottery-making, Sibenik offers many cute shops selling handmade ceramics. Take back home a fantastic souvenir, unique from Croatia. The local shops sell anything from plates and bowls to vases.
• Embroidery | Also embroidery is a local product with beautiful and intricate embroidered textiles made using traditional techniques by highly skilled artisans.

Gallery Juraj Dalmatinac

Talking about shopping and unique souvenirs from Croatia, you must attend the art gallery, workshop and boutique Juraj Dalmatinac . The fantastic place lets you dive into a local artists’ gallery. You can find and buy anything related to art, from sculptures to paintings, or get inside of curiosity.

Enjoy the sunset sipping a drink on the promenade.

The Sibenik Promenade offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for a drink at sunset. Here are three of the best bars on the Sibenik Promenade to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset:

• Azimut | Stylish on the top floor of the Amadria Park hotel, the Azimut offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. This location is perfect for a chilled sunset.
• Riva Wine Bar | This bar is directly on the promenade and offers a cosy and calm atmosphere. Enjoy a drink and a few sides, watching people walking by when the sun goes down.
• En Vogue Beach Club | The Vogue is a trendy beach club located just a short walk from the promenade and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding islands. The unique thing about this beach club is that it offers a deck to enjoy a cocktail, or you can stay by the pool! Cool, isn’t it?

Relax on Šibenik’s Beaches

Šibenik is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, with crystal-clear waters and sandy shores. Some of the most popular beaches include Banj Beach, Jadrija Beach, and Solaris Beach . We will provide you with tips on the best times to visit, as well as the best activities to do on the beach, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Here are three of the best beaches in Sibenik:

• Banj Beach | The most famous beach is just a short walk from the city centre and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding islands. The beach has showers, changing rooms, and sun loungers; bathers can enjoy water sports and other activities.
• Solaris Beach | A perfect long sandy shore, just a few kilometres from the city centre. The beach is equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, and visitors can enjoy a range of water sports and other activities.
• Jadrija Beach | The most secluded beach on our list is just a short drive from the city centre, on a little peninsula. The beach is protected by pine forests, which offer shade and refreshing picnic spots. Jadrija Beach is ideal if you are looking for crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

Best activities to do in Sibenik

Go for an evening guided walking tour

Join a Sibenik food tour

Go on a round trip to Trogir and Zadar

Go on an epic Helicopter ride over the Dalmatian Islands

Things to do around Sibenik

Go on a day trip to krka national park.

• Take a ferry to Hvar Island

Enjoy the beauty of Split

Discover the unesco city of trogir.

• Boat Tour to Kornati National Park

We loved our day trip to Krka National Park . Often overshadowed by Plitvice Lakes, Krka National Park is a unique green spot in Croatia. The protected area is outside Šibenik and is one of Croatia’s most visited tourist destinations. 

You will walk along wooden passages through unbelievable blue turquoise water, mighty waterfalls and cute spots. The most famous spot is the Skradinski Buk waterfall, one of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders. You will love the park; in fact, when you arrive at Skradin, you have to take a scenic boat ride that will take you to the entrance. We went first by boat and then hiked the path, which showed us incredible lushes, greenery and limestone cliffs.

Take the ferry to Hvar Island

Hvar is a beautiful island off the coast of Šibenik, making for a great day trip. We believe that the most attractive things are the architecture, the laid-down atmosphere and the pristine beach. The island is easily accessible by ferry from Šibenik, making it a convenient and unforgettable day trip destination.

We included this paragraph just because you might be touring the country, and in your Croatia Itinerary , Sibenik comes first. However, the little town is just 80 Kilometres north of Split, the second city in Croatia.

You can stay in Sibenik and discover Split just for a day trip. Even though it will not be enough. In one day in Split, you can enjoy the city’s historic landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace , which dates back to the 4th century AD. Other popular attractions in Split include the Riva waterfront promenade, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the Marjan Hill nature reserve.

Another fantastic destination on our 10 days itinerary in Croatia was Trogir. A laid-back town, protected by Unesco and part of the filming locations of Game of Thrones. Overall Trogir is a historic coastal town located just 30 kilometres south of Šibenik. The easiest way to get to Trogir from Šibenik is by public bus, with regular daily departures.

Once in Trogir, visitors can explore the town’s UNESCO-listed historic centre, which features a wealth of well-preserved mediaeval architecture. Also, during your day trip, make sure to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Lawrence in the centre of the town, down to the river, the Kamerlengo Fortress, and Central Square.

Take a Boat Tour to Kornati National Park

Well, we suggest getting a proper tour and booking the activity in advance, especially if you are visiting Croatia in Summer . Kornati National Park is around Šibenik , a cluster of 89 islands, islets, and reefs. The park is home to some of the most sensational natural landscapes in the world, including towering cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife. A boat tour is one of the best ways to explore the park. We will provide you with leads on the best tours to take, as well as the best times to visit.

Book your Full-Day Kornati National Park Boat Tour

Explore Šibenik’s nearby towns and unspoiled islands

We have talked enough about the f antastic things to do in Šibenik; however, there are considerable activities to do surrounding the cobblestone alleys. You can fill about three Days in Šibenik, with plenty of activities and no time off at all. It is the case to introduce you to the nearby islands. The whole Šibenik-Knin region is so diverse to offers different beaches, incredible landscapes, and authentic Croatian Towns and islands.

Just a few kilometres away you can discover fantastic towns. We have selected a few you should include in your Sibenik Itinerary:

Or, if you are keen on an adventure, you can take a boat trip or ferry to the unbelievably small Dalmatian Islands. These are our suggestions:

• Murter | Connected also by a moveable and perfect for a day trip to Kornati National Park

Bonus Activities in Sibenik | Complete Sibenik Guide

Attend šibenik’s sea splash festival.

If you visit Croatia in Summer , you should look forward to the Šibenik Summer Festival . The unique atmosphere attracts tourists and locals alike. It is one of Croatia’s most popular cultural events, with international talents performing over two days of music and dance, from R&B to Caribbean rhythms.

Visit the Ethnographic Museum

Located in a traditional Dalmatian house, the Ethnographic Museum will take you hand through the country’s history. A comprehensive exposition of artefacts, costumes and tools accompanying the Dalmatian Development in agriculture, handicraft production, coral harvesting and more. It is a non-usual thing to do in Sibenik , but it is still worth a shot if you spend a few days in the little town.

How long should you spend in Sibenik?

Sibenik might not be the mos t popular place in Croatia, but it is still worth a few days. If you travel through Croatia, we suggest spending at least two days in Sibenik. The fantastic old town is worth a whole day of exploring. If you have enough time, you can visit the Cathedral of St. James, the St. Michael’s Fortress, the main square and the promenade.

Suppose you can allocate another day, spending three days in Šibenik. In that case, you will have plenty of time to enjoy also surrounding activities, such as island hopping, Kornati National Park and Krka National Park .

We must say that Šibenik is an extraordinary destination for a weekend getaway in Croatia. Also, consider it an alternative location to base yourself while touring the Dalmatian Coasts.

How to get around Sibenik

WALK | Šibenik is one of the most pleasant walks we had in Croatia. The pedestrian-friendly old town that is easy to navigate on foot. You will find yourself walking for hours without seeing or hearing of a car through narrow alleys and little cobblestone streets.

BUS | You don’t need any transport to stay in Šibenik for a few days, and only for day trips. But be assured that the city is served by a reliable public transport system that can easily take you to the major sights on the outskirts. If you want more laydown time while in Sibenik, you can stay away from the old town, and just take the bus to the centre when needed. The city has a reliable bus system that connects the old town with other parts of the city and the surrounding area.

BIKE | Renting a bike is always a great way to explore a new destination. You can easily navigate the old town and surroundings by bike, enjoying the itinerary at your own pace. Actually, a stroll on the promenade by bike is romantic and relaxing.

Where to stay in Sibenik

If you made it here, you are already convinced to stay in Šibenik for a few days. The fantastic Unesco Town has many options that suit every budget and preference. From average hotels and guesthouses to traditional Dalmatian Houses, we suggest staying in the old town for a more authentic experience. However, also consider staying on the outskirts of the countryside to enjoy the atmosphere and the view.

When it comes to finding the best places to stay in Šibenik, several areas are worth considering. Here are our suggestions for the best areas to stay in Šibenik:

• Heritage Hotel Life Palace : A luxurious hotel located in a 15th-century palace.
• Hotel Jadran Šibenik : A modern hotel on the waterfront with stunning sea views.
• Apartman Mare : Comfortable apartments located in the heart of the Old Town.

Banj Beach Area

• D-Resort Šibenik : A comfortable location with a sea view and fantastic, luxurious resort facilities.
• Beachfront Šibenik Apartments : Comfortable apartments located just steps from the beach.

Mandalina | A neighbourhood just outside the city centre ideal for budget accommodations

• Amadria Park Hotel Jure : A modern hotel located in a quiet area of Mandalina.
• Apartments Slavica : Comfortable apartments located in a residential area of Mandalina.

Croatia Travel Insurance

Nowadays, booking travel insurance is becoming part of the travelling plan. However, it’s just a precaution, and you should consider it even if you are an experienced traveller.

Planning an itinerary through Croatia, which includes activities like hiking and some other sports, it’s essential to have travel insurance. However, this is not just indicated because medical problems might occur, but also the connection between train and flight if your luggage gets lost.

In addition, many Rental car agencies will lower the cost of car insurance if you have your Travel insurance, or this might cover the costs of car accidents or damage to the car entirely.  For us, having Travel Insurance is the way to enjoy our vacation with peace of mind.

Hey Mondo | COVID-19 coverage, medical expenses and total travel costs. A f antastic app with 24-hour medical care and no extra charges. You can save 5% on your insurance by booking through our link .

SafetyWing | COVID-19 coverage, comprehensi ve travel & medical, and insurance can be purchased while travelling for digital nomads .

Why you should visit Sibenik

Šibenik is a hidden gem of Croatia , offering many activities that range from island hopping to hikes and natural wonders. Whether you are interested in exploring historic landmarks, relaxing on the beach, or indulging in the local cuisine, Šibenik has something for everyone. You should visit Sibenik for the laid-down atmosphere, the pristine village and the tasty food. With its stunning natural landscapes, Authentic Unesco World Heritage site that boosts the already rich cultural history, and delicious local cuisine, Šibenik is truly a must-visit destination in Croatia.

Q&A Things to do in Sibenik

Is šibenik croatia worth visiting.

Yes. Sibenik is worth visiting while touring Croatia. The little town is a Unesco World Heritage site with incredible cultural activities. Also, consider Sibenik as the centre point of your exploration with a short journey to Krka National Park , Zadar, Dalmatian Island and Split.

What is Šibenik known for?

Sibenik is recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Also, the city has a long history of being the birthplace of the “Klape” Choir, and so seen as a city of music. In summer, from June to September, you can enjoy open-air shows in the evening of the choir in the old town.

Can you swim in Šibenik?

Yes. Šibenik has one of the best beaches in this part of Croatia. Banj beach is at a walkable distance from the old town and is a wonderful place to unwind and relax. Also consider Amadria Park for a swim in Sibenik, which is less popular among travellers and more for locals.

Was Game of Thrones filmed in Šibenik?

Yes. Many towns within the Dalmatian Coast were part of the filming locations of Game of Thrones. For example, Sibenik was part of the scenery for the city of Braavos. Some scenes see the maze of Sibenik’s old town and also the Cathedral of St. James as the Iron Bank. Also, the Fortress of St. Nicholas was the fighting pit in Meereen.

Is Šibenik near Split?

Yes. Sibenik is close to Split; the two cities are 87 km apart. You can reach Split in approximately one hour from Sibenik. A reliable bus service takes you from Sibenik bus station to Split, passing by the airport. Departures are scheduled every 45 minutes/1 hour. The ticket costs approximately €1.50.

Where can I watch the sunset in Šibenik?

We recommend two places for the best sunset in Šibenik; Banj Beach and Sibenik Promenade. Both locations have a picture-perfect landscape and offer bars and beach clubs to enjoy the moment sipping a drink.

Are you planning to visit Croatia soon?

Before you travel to Croatia, we have some recommendations for you:

SPLIT | We loved our time in Split, exploring the old town and the GOT filming locations. We based our trip through Dalmatia here, exploring nearby islands and also having the best time with outdoor activities. INTERESTED IN WHAT TO DO IN SPLIT IN 3 DAYS? READ OUR GUIDE!

HVAR | Read our guide to Hvar Island, one of the most beautiful places in Croatia. The Hvar nightlife attracts people, but there is a world behind that. The island is pristine and preserves little cocoons like the lavender fields and the oldest town of Stari Grad. Read How to get to Hvar Island .

DUBROVNIK | We know we spent more than we should have in Dubrovnik, but the city is stunning. Explore Dubrovnik’s old town, walk up the walls, sip a drink with the best sunset, or dive into the local food. Check our guide to 3 days in Dubrovnik.

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Every time is good to travel and make new experiences. As London based travel bloggers, it’s easy to find cheap flights and explore new places even just at the weekend. We spent 10 days travelling around Croatia, and we absolutely loved it. Here are more guides about Croatia and its surrounding areas.

MORE ABOUT CROATIA

The ultimate Croatia bucket list How to spend 10 days in Croatia Backpacking in Croatia Dubrovnik itinerary 1 days Things to do in Split in 3 days How to get from Split to Hvar by Ferry Split to Hvar day trip

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Meet the Authors: Toti and Ale

We're Toti and Ale, avid travellers, award-winning writers, and photographers  living life one stamp at a time. We have been in more than 35 countries, hand in hand, offering inspiring guides on Italian Trip Abroad and other award-winning travel blogs. We are London-based, but we travel the world as Digital Nomads with a purpose: to help you travel more and better in a sustainable way . You can find us here, offering tips for backpackers, itineraries or guides to cross Italy and get on the most insane adventures. Join us as we explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, savour the beauty of slow travel, and make a positive impact on the places we visit.

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