WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT
Šibenik is located on the Dalmatia Coast of Croatia, along the Adriatic Sea, a popular region with tourists. However, this smaller seaside city is often overlooked for more flashy Croatian counterparts, making Šibenik a hidden gem, you should include in your itinerary. You’ll find less crowds than Split and Dubrovnik and a more relaxed atmosphere.
I visited as part of my Mediterranean cruise in April. Our ship docked at the Port, just a short walk to the Old Town of about 15 minutes.
I found Šibenik to be a charming and beautiful town and enjoyed discovering the hidden gems.
Things To See
Here I will outline the best things to see and do in Šibenik, including landmarks and attractions in and around around the city.
I spent a day here and took a walking tour with a local guide who lives in the city. He shared his expertise and knowledge with our group and I found it very enlightening and learned a lot about this part of Croatia.
I recommend a day or 2 to enjoy the main sites and have some leisure time as well.
1. Šibenik Old Town
Spend time wandering around the charming Old Town, a medieval city with narrow alleys and walkways, arches and tunnels to explore. Being car-free, walking is the only way to get around the streets of the labyrinthine Old Town, and there are also many stairs to navigate.
Admire the stunning architecture, mostly Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque style buildings. The Old Town shares similarities with Venice, having been under Venetian rule for 377 years.
Notable sites in the Old Town are:
- Churches and Bell Towers, in particular Cathedral of St James (more below).
- Medieval Town Square, called Square of the Republic of Croatia, is a central meeting point and often has performers.
- Šibenik City Hall, a Venetian style building, dating from 1546.
- Šibenik City Museum is worth a quick visit, to learn about the history of the town. Located at the waterfront in the old Rector’s Palace, which originated in the 13th century.
- If you look carefully as you stroll around the Old Town you’ll see signs Amor di Cani which means ‘the love of dogs’ and drinking troughs built into the historic buildings.
A few hours is ample time for visiting the Old Town, as it is quite small.
2. Cathedral of St James
Visit the Cathedral of St James, Šibenik’s crowning glory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Gothic and Renaissance church is the most notable architectural structure of Croatia.
A unique church with 71 carved heads around the exterior of random people, thought to be locals of Šibenik, but whom we know nothing about. It remains a mystery who these men and women were which adds curiosity to the landmark, enchanting visitors.
The structure is made entirely of stone and took 100 years to build. It was completed in 1535 and has had minimal destruction over the years which is quite remarkable. The dome is the only portion rebuilt.
3. Fortresses
There are 4 fortresses of Šibenik, 3 in the city, offering panoramic views, and one at sea:
1. St Michael’s Fortress – located up a steep hill above the Old Town, it is the oldest fortification in the area, from 11th century. Now used for events with an open-air theatre overlooking the sea.
2. Barone Fortress, also perched above the city and has multimedia features for visitors to interact with. There is a cafe here also.
3. St John’s Fortress is the largest of the city fortresses and at the highest location. Nowadays it serves as an educational and cultural venue. You can hike the hill or go by car.
4. St Nichola’s Fortress, a UNESCO Site and a Venetian structure built in 16th century, is not in the city, but is found at sea in St Anthony Channel, on the island of Ljuljevac, reachable by boat only. I suggest taking a tour of this ‘Gatekeeper of Šibenik’ if you are into forts.
4. Riva Waterfront
The waterfront called Riva is a highlight of the city, with a striking promenade and scenic views of the sea and boats.
Take a boat ride with one of the boat tour operators found here.
A leisurely stroll along the coastline, day or night, is a must. There there are cafes and restaurants lining the seaside.
You can walk to beaches from the Old Town. Rezalište Beach and Banj Beach are 2 of the most popular ones.
5. Krka National Park
Krka National Park is only 13km away, making Šibenik the perfect springboard for visiting its stunning landscape along the Krka River, which is 73km long.
You can take a tour from the city and enjoy Krka’s many waterfalls, swimming, and hiking the nature trails through the lush forrest. Allow at least half a day for this excursion.
Information for visiting Krka National Park can be obtained here.
Travel Info
- Flying directly to Šibenik is not possible as it does not have an airport. The closest airports are Split Airport, 1.5 hours away from Šibenik, and Zadar Airport, 1 hour from Šibenik.
- Buses to and from Šibenik are available out of nearby cities, Split and Zagreb, as well as several other European cities.
- The city is connected by train to Split and Zagreb, operated by Croatian Railways.
- Ferries to nearby islands, such as Krapanj and Zlarin, are offered daily from the Ferry Port.
- Taxis are available in the city and to nearby places.
- Renting a car is a viable option to consider, to give you more freedom and flexibility.
- Taxi boats are also a common way to get around the waterways and islands, located at the Riva.
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20 Comments
good information
We’ve been to Sibenik and it’s indeed a hidden gem in Croatia. We were there for 4 days back in 2017 on a campground on the coast. Such a beautiful sunset each evening. It’s ideal as a point to visit Krka NP.
Šibenik looks like such a peaceful and charming escape and I’m definitely adding it to my Croatia list. I love the mix of history, stunning architecture, and that relaxed coastal vibe.
This looks like such a charming place to visit! I’d definitely love to visit one day.
Croatia is on my bucket list, but I haven’t done a lot of research yet. Thank you so much for your post on Sibenik. I will make sure to add it to the itinerary!
Sibenik really does look like a hidden gem! It’s one of the few places we didn’t visit while in Croatia, but you convinced us that it’s worth a stop. Thanks for sharing!
Šibenik sounds like a perfect off-the-beaten-path spot in Croatia, away from the crowds. Adding it to my Croatia list.
Wow, Sibenik looks like such a beautiful and peaceful place! I’d never heard of it before, but now it’s definitely on my travel list. Thanks for sharing this hidden gem!
We just got back from Croatia and went to the Old City in Debrovnik. It looks like we should have stopped at Sibenik as well!
Šibenik sounds like a terrific spot to visit. Thanks a lot for sharing your experiences!
Šibenik looks like such a charming and peaceful place. Perfect for a relaxed getaway away from the usual tourist crowds, thanks for the detailed guide!
I so appreciate this travel post as I want to visit Croatia and Šibenik sounds like the perfect destination. The pictures are everything and will be checking this place out when I go!
Sibenik has to be one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. I love the mountains and houses right by the water.
My son is visiting here in the summer. Thanks for all the tips on places to visit.
I have croatian heritage and have wanted to visit for years. These places in the photos look amazing! Definitely on my list to see.
Croatia isn’t a country I have explored very much, but it seems beautiful. I would add Sibenik to my bucket list x
I’ve heard a lot about Croatia and how gorgeous it is…A real hidden gem…I am planning a visit next year, I can’t wait!
Croatia is such a beautiful place and Sibenik looks like a true hidden gem. I love seeing all of those cobbled streets and the local architecture.
Croatia is on my list. I hope I can go there and explore many places there soon.
Croatia looks like a great place to visit! I am definitely putting on my list on my list of places to go!