Šibenik Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Šibenik, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in this comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip now and immerse yourself in the beauty of Northern Dalmatia.


Introduction to Šibenik

Nestled in Northern Dalmatia, in Croatia’s Balkan region, Šibenik boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscapes.

Founded in the 10th century, Šibenik is the oldest native Croatian town on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. Throughout its history, Šibenik has been occupied by various civilizations, from the Romans to the Venetians.

Today, Šibenik is a popular tourist destination, renowned for its beautiful beaches, cultural landmarks, and charming Mediterranean vibe.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and much more to help you plan your trip to Šibenik.

List of Places to Visit in Šibenik

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Šibenik is home to a variety of culturally important attractions, including museums and historical landmarks.

  • The St. James Cathedral: An impressive 15th-century Renaissance church and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Four Wells Square: A popular tourist destination featuring four wells, a Renaissance square, and a Venetian castle.
  • Town Museum Šibenik: A historic museum featuring displays on the city’s history, arts, crafts, and architecture.
  • Barone Fortress: A fortification built by the Republic of Venice in the 17th century. It offers magnificent views of Šibenik and the surrounding islands.

Natural Attractions of Šibenik: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the breathtaking views and outdoor adventures that Šibenik has to offer.

  • Krka National Park: Home to the famous Krka Waterfalls and lush greenery, Krka National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Kornati National Park: A stunning archipelago consisting of 89 uninhabited islands, islets, and reefs, Kornati National Park offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in Croatia.
  • Solaris Beach: A sandy beach with crystal clear waters and plenty of activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving.
  • St. Michael’s Fortress: Located on a hill above the old town, St. Michael’s Fortress provides amazing views of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Šibenik

Šibenik is a great destination for hiking and cycling enthusiasts, with plenty of fantastic routes that offer breathtaking views and challenging terrain.

Some popular biking and hiking trails in the area include:

  • Šibenik-Knin County Bike Route: A scenic route through the countryside and coastal areas of Šibenik-Knin County.
  • Krka National Park Hiking Trail: A 7-kilometer trail through Krka National Park that takes hikers to impressive waterfalls and a historic monastery.
  • St. Michael’s Fortress Hiking Trail: A steep, challenging hike up to St. Michael’s Fortress, where you will be rewarded with stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

Best Things to Do in Šibenik: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and sightseeing, there are many other activities and tours to enjoy in Šibenik.

  • Sea Kayaking: Explore the stunning waterways and hidden caves of the Dalmatian Coast on a sea kayaking tour.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries and vineyards to learn about Croatian wines and try unique varietals.
  • Food Tours: Experience the local cuisine and culture on a food tour that features traditional Croatian dishes and drinks.
  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to explore the beautiful coastlines and islands surrounding Šibenik.

Week-Long Itinerary for Šibenik

If you have a week to spend in Šibenik, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Explore the old town and visit the St. James Cathedral and Town Museum Šibenik.
  • Day 2: Visit Krka National Park and spend the day hiking and swimming.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour of Kornati National Park and enjoy the stunning scenery.
  • Day 4: Visit the Barone Fortress and Four Wells Square, then end the day with a sunset hike up St. Michael’s Fortress.
  • Day 5: Spend a day at Solaris Beach, enjoying the sunshine and water sports activities.
  • Day 6: Take a wine tour and explore the local vineyards and wineries.
  • Day 7: Finish your trip with a food tour, trying traditional Croatian dishes and drinks.

Food and Drink Scene of Šibenik

No visit to Šibenik is complete without trying the local cuisine and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Peka: A traditional Croatian dish made with meat, vegetables, and potatoes, cooked over an open fire in a metal dish.
  • Octopus Salad: A refreshing salad made with fresh octopus, potatoes, and olive oil.
  • Burek: A pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Served with yogurt or sour cream.

Local Beverages

  • Rakija: A strong fruit brandy popular in Croatia.
  • Croatia Wine: Try local wines made from indigenous grape varieties such as Plavac Mali and Pošip.
  • Beer: Many locally produced beers are available in Šibenik, including Karlovačko, Ožujsko, and Tomislav.

Where to Stay in Šibenik: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget-friendly hostels, Šibenik has plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.

  • Heritage Hotel Life Palace: A beautiful 4-star hotel located in the heart of the old town, featuring luxurious rooms and a rooftop terrace.
  • Hostel Scala: A modern, budget-friendly hostel located in the city center, offering private and shared rooms.
  • Guesthouse Adria: A family-run guesthouse located near the beach, offering comfortable rooms and breakfast included.

What to Buy in Šibenik: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of Šibenik home with you by purchasing some locally-made souvenirs and products.

  • Olive Oil: The Dalmatian Coast produces some of the finest olive oil in the world, and you can find it at local markets and shops in Šibenik.
  • Salt: Šibenik is home to a famous salt-producing area, and unique types of sea salt can be purchased in the city.
  • Croatian Wine: Take home a bottle of locally produced wine, made from unique grape varieties found only in Croatia.
  • Embroidery: Traditional Croatian embroidery is sold in many shops in Šibenik, and it makes for a beautiful and unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Šibenik

Croatia is known for its rich culture and traditions, and Šibenik is no exception.

Here are some local customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Greeting: When meeting someone in Croatia, it’s customary to shake hands and make eye contact.
  • Clothing: As a predominantly Catholic country, dressing conservatively is appreciated when visiting churches and other religious sites.
  • Language: While many Croatians speak English, it’s always appreciated to learn a few basic phrases in Croatian, such as “hello” and “thank you.”
  • Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Croatia, but leaving a small tip for good service is common.

Best Time to Visit Šibenik

The best time to visit Šibenik is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and many outdoor activities are available.

However, if you prefer fewer crowds and milder weather, consider visiting in the shoulder season of May or September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Šibenik

Do:

  • Explore the old town and visit the St. James Cathedral and other cultural landmarks.
  • Visit Krka National Park to experience the stunning natural beauty of Dalmatia.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks, including rakija and fresh seafood.
  • Take a boat tour to explore the islands and coastline surrounding Šibenik.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss the opportunity to hike up St. Michael’s Fortress for the stunning views.
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions if you need them.
  • Don’t forget to respect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Šibenik

Šibenik is generally a very safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates and a friendly local population.

However, as with all tourist destinations, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take usual safety precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight and not walking alone at night.

Health in Šibenik

Croatia has a well-developed healthcare system with hospitals and clinics located throughout the country, including Šibenik.

Visitors to Šibenik are advised to carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and take out comprehensive travel insurance to ensure access to medical treatment if necessary.

Getting to Šibenik: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Šibenik

The nearest airports to Šibenik are Split Airport and Zadar Airport, both of which are approximately an hour’s drive away.

Many airlines operate direct flights from major European cities to Split and Zadar.

Bus Stations Near Šibenik

Šibenik has a bus station located in the city center, which serves domestic and international destinations.

Frequent bus services run to other major destinations in Croatia, including Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb.

Other Options

Visitors to Šibenik can also arrive by car or by ferry, with regular ferry services connecting the city to various nearby islands and coastal destinations.

How to Get Around in Šibenik

Šibenik is a small and walkable city, making it easy to explore on foot. Taxis and buses are also available for transportation within the city.

To access the nearby natural attractions and islands, ferry services and boat tours are available.

Where to Go Next from Šibenik: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Šibenik is located in the heart of Dalmatia, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby destinations and excursions.

Some popular nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Visiting the stunning city of Split, located just an hour’s drive away.
  • Taking a day trip to the beautiful town of Trogir, located just 30 minutes from Šibenik.
  • Exploring the nearby islands, including Zlarin, Krapanj, and Prvic.

Conclusion

With its rich history, stunning architecture, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture, Šibenik is a must-visit destination in Northern Dalmatia.

Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, outdoor adventures, food and drink, or just relaxing on the beach, Šibenik has something for everyone.

We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful destination.

View over Cathedral of St. James and the bay of Šibenik View over Cathedral of St. James and the bay of Šibenik Šibenik's harbour side Šibenik's harbour side In the city In the city At the centre of the old town At the centre of the old town Cathedral of St. James Cathedral of St. James Crkva sv. Barbare Crkva sv. Barbare Old city hall Old city hall Typical hat Typical hat At a local bar At a local bar