If you’re looking for Croatia without the crowds, then Šibenik is your spot.

While most visitors to Croatia flock south to Dubrovnik and Split, there’s so much more to the small Balkan nation than meets the eye.

Located about an hour north of Split, Šibenik is true a hidden gem. It feels local and authentic, is bursting with culture and amazing things to see and do.

This place has it all – a quaint old town, stunning beaches, delicious restaurants and even a Game of Thrones filming site or two.

Pronounced “She-been-eek,” it’s the perfect low-key town to use as your home base when exploring Croatia.

We were lucky enough to spend a month here, the first stop on our five-month stint in Europe when we embarked on our sabbatical.

Check out the full story on how we left it all behind to travel here!

So of all of the places to go, why did we pick Šibenik, Croatia?

You know that old phrase about throwing darts at a map? Well, that’s basically what happened, and lucky for us Šibenik blew us away and charmed us from the moment we arrived.

Intrigued? Read on for my top picks on what to do in the beautifully unique city of Šibenik, Croatia.

Pin me for later: 10 Amazing Things to Do in Šibenik, Croatia

1. Wander Šibenik’s Old Town

The Old Town of Šibenik is bursting with charm and does not disappoint.

Spend the day getting lost in Šibenik’s endless winding streets and alleys. No map needed – everything leads back down to the water.

The locals claim that Šibenik has the most stairs of any city in Croatia, even more than Dubrovnik. In a country known for its hilled cobblestone towns, that’s saying something.

Start your walk up at St. Michael’s Fortress, then meander down the steps past flowered courtyards, tiny chapels, and homes that have been there for centuries.

Use the Cathedral of St. James that sits at the heart of the Old Town as your destination. This striking cathedral is a signature landmark of the city and is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Relax on Šibenik’s stunning beaches

The crystal clear, turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea draw visitors to Croatia from all over the world. Šibenik and its surrounding areas are home to many gorgeous beaches that are the perfect embodiment of holiday R&R.

Think crisp, refreshing water, gauzy draped cabanas and waiters serving Aperol spritz’s while house music plays in the background. It feels a bit like Mykonos, but at very budget-friendly prices thanks to Croatia’s favorable exchange rate.

For a lively yet relaxed beach experience head to the Shark Beach Club in Žaborić. Located just 10 minutes from Šibenik’s center, we spent many blissful afternoons at this local hotspot… So local that we bumped into our Airbnb host, and man, did he seem surprised to see us.

For the full resort experience just a few minutes from town, head to the White Beach or the En Vogue Beach Club at the Amadria Beach Resort. Don’t be deterred by the pretentious names – these beaches are pleasantly low-key and can be accessed through the hotel’s main entrance.

Pro tip: The majority of the beaches in Croatia are rocky, not sandy. Channel your inner summer camper and bring a pair of water shoes for swimming. Your feet will thank you later!

Click here to view hotels and accommodation in Šibenik

3. Stroll along the riva

Šibenik’s waterfront feels straight out of a postcard. Unlike some of the bigger cities on Croatia’s coast, the riva is not overrun by cheesy vendors and tourist traps – it feels relaxing and authentic.

Wander along the riva to the Banj Beach, the “Town Beach,” located about a kilometer from the center of town.

While there are better places in the area for swimming, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better panoramic view of Šibenik. Banj Beach is also a picture-perfect place to watch both sunrise and sunset, as the water, sky and town illuminate to a crazy golden hue.

In the evening, the entire town comes alive and flocks to the riva for sunset. Don’t forget your camera – the sunsets in Šibenik are truly epic.

Stroll along the promenade and admire the sailboats that are docked from all over the world, then stop and enjoy a cocktail or two at one of the many cafes.

4. Explore Krka National Park

While Croatia is famous for it’s beaches, its beauty extends well into the interior with it’s stunning national parks.

Šibenik is the perfect jumping off point to visit Krka National Park, the show-stopping protected region located about 30 minutes from the city.

Think lush forests, winding hiking trails and waterfalls with cool emerald water that you can actually swim in.

From Šibenik, catch the bus to Skradin where you’ll buy your park entrance ticket – around $30 USD in high season.

Once you’re in the park, head to the falls on foot, by bike or my personal favorite route – by riverboat, which is included in the admission price.

Once you reach the main event – the Skradinski Buk – go for a dip in the refreshingly chilly water, then cross the bridge explore the miles of boardwalk trails that zigzag through the park.

Don’t miss the old water mill located past the Skradinski Buk – it’s the world’s second oldest hydroelectric plant. It opened just two days after the plant at Niagara Falls, and it once powered all of the street lights in Šibenik.

Pro tip: Bring your swimsuit and water shoes, but leave your valuables at the hotel… Lockers are not available on-site!

For a guided trip to Krka National Park, check out one of these options:

5. Check out the Game of Thrones filming sites

No need to beat around the bush here – these days many people equate Croatia with HBO’s Game of Thrones. I’d be lying if I said that the dreamy orange-roofed scenes of Westeros weren’t part of our initial attraction to this previously off-the-radar country.

If you’re a fan of the show, I’ve got good news for ya. The Croatian GoT filming locations aren’t limited to Dubrovnik – the mythical city of Braavos was filmed in Šibenik.

The city’s skyline is used for the waterfront approach to Braavos from the water. It’s photogenic from all angles, and it’s well worth either taking out a boat for the day or riding the Jadrolinija ferry to witness Šibenik from the sea.

Town scenes of Braavos were also shot in Šibenik’s Old Town, including the iconic Cathedral of St. James that was used as the Iron Bank.

Be sure to check out the stone faces carved on the sides of the church. The gargoyle-like heads are said to be famous citizens of Šibenik’s from back in the day… Possible inspiration for the Hall of Faces?

READ MORE: A Quick Guide to Dubrovnik, Croatia

6. Brush up on your Croatian history

Šibenik is bursting with history. It’s the oldest native Croatian town on the Adriatic Sea, with roots tracing back more than a thousand years.

Just about everyone owned Šibenik at one point or another – the Venetians, Ottomans, Austro-Hungarians, Italians… Everyone wanted a piece.

Take a walking tour to learn more about the city’s dramatic history.

7. Island hop through the Šibenik Archipelago

Sure, everyone’s heard of Hvar, but did you know there are more than 1,200 islands in Croatia?

Šibenik is a great jumping off point for exploring some of the country’s lesser-known and equally beautiful islands.

Hop on the Jadrolinija ferry to one of the many islets in the Šibenik archipelago like Zlarin, Zirje or Prvic.

Ferry map for islands in the Šibenik archipelago, courtesy of croatiaferries.com

If you’re not feeling the ferry, hop on one of the guided day-trip tours that run from Šibenik and Zadar like one of these options:

Unlike the more famous spots further down the Dalmatian Coast, these smaller islands offer a low-key experience that will leave you wondering where all of the other tourists are.

The journey out to the islands is worth the trip itself. Don’t miss the stunning views as you cruise through the St. Anthony Channel past the Fortress of St. Nicholas, another UNESCO site.

Zlarin

The closest island to the Šibenik mainland, Zlarin is blanketed in pines and home to numerous sandy beaches.

Zlarin is known for its history of coral harvesting and beautiful coves, which are best visited by water taxi, available for hire at the marina.

Zirje

The farthest out island in the Šibenik archipelago, Zirje offers visitors a true Robinson Crusoe experience. The island’s population is under 100, but Zirje houses some of the most beautiful, clear water that we experienced in all of Croatia.

Check out the restaurants of Konoba Tratinska and Konoba Julie for freshly caught fish and beautiful views.

Crystal clear water off of the islet of Zirje

Kornati National Park

Krka’s not the only national park drawing in visitors to the area – the beautifully unique archipelago of Kornati National Park is another highlight.

Boat tours of Kornati run daily from Šibenik. There isn’t a ferry that runs through Kornati, so a tour is the best way to experience it. Bonus – Most tours include snorkeling!

READ MORE: A Beginner’s Guide to Island-Hopping in Croatia

8. Catch the views from St. Michael’s Fortress

For some of the best views in town, lace up your sneakers and hike up to St. Michael’s Fortress, which overlooks the city.

Of the four forts in Šibenik, this one is most worthy of a visit.

Visiting during the summer? Don’t miss the lavendar in June, and check out one of the concerts that are held here during the warmer months for a truly unique venue.

9. Chow down on Dalmatian cuisine

The food in Croatia is a delicious blend of traditional Mediterranean flavors infused with fresh local ingredients.

Think fresh fish, cheese, meats and vegetables donned with olive oil and spices. It’s not exactly light, but when in Rome, right?

Did I mention the wine? You’ll find grapes in my favorite form grown here in Šibenik-Knin County.

Though not widely known, Babić wine can totally hold its own against it’s more famous Mediterranean counterparts.

Šibenik has a lively restaurant scene that showcases the local flavors. Drop into a konoba, a small restaurant or tavern, for lunch or dinner.

For that amazing hole-in-the-wall local restaurant experience, don’t miss the beef stuffed peppers with red wine sauce at Buffet Šimun. Don’t worry, it’s not an actual buffet! Go for lunch, as the stuffed peppers usually sell out by dinner… They’re that good.

For some of the best cuisine in the area, head to Tinel or Restoran No4 for a delicious dinner with a quiet courtyard ambiance.

If you’re up for a splurge, make a reservation at Croatia’s first Michelin starred restaurant, Pelegrini for a modern take on Dalmatian cuisine.

10. Take a day trip to Zadar or Trogir

Šibenik’s central location makes it a convenient jumping off point for exploring some of Croatia’s other coastal cities.

Take a day trips from town by renting a car or hopping on the local bus line that runs regularly along the coast.

Zadar

Spend the day exploring Zadar, located an hour’s drive up the coast from Šibenik. The walled city is a fusion of architecture, and it has a little bit of everything – Roman ruins, Venetian bell towers and Byzantine churches that date back centuries.

Don’t miss Zadar’s solar-powered dance floor and sea organ, like a giant harmonica built into the riverwalk.

Trogir

The charming seaside town of Trogir is a great pitstop as you’re making your way to or from Split.

Stroll along Trogir’s classic Dalmatian waterfront and check out the Kamerlengo Fortress that looks straight out of a storybook.

Šibenik, Croatia is a city full of culture, beauty and even a little adventure. It’s sure to surprise you, and I hope that I’ve convinced you to add it to your Croatian itinerary!

Cheers,

Meredith

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How to Get to Croatia

Croatia is located in Eastern Europe, across the Adriatic Sea from Italy and north of Greece. As of this writing, there are not any direct flights from the U.S. to Croatia.

Fear not, the popularity of high quality budget airlines like Norwegian have made traveling to Europe from the States much easier and more affordable than in the past, with rates as low as around $300 roundtrip.

Fly into a major European hub city, then take a quick flight on one of the many European budget airlines like EasyJet to Split or Dubrovnik.

How to Get to the Islands

Croatia has an efficient, reliable ferry system that makes island hopping very easy. Jadrolinija is the big game in town and the primary ferry company that runs along the coast.

The ferries are a very enjoyable way to travel, as they can be equipped with amenities like free WiFi, a bar, and on the larger ferries even a full-service restaurant.

The Jadrolinija Ferry in port on the island of Vis

Island Hopping From Split

Split is the second largest city in Croatia, and the largest on the coast. The ancient city is often considered the gateway to the Dalmatian islands, and most island hopping ventures will begin here.

Split’s international airport is about 30 minutes outside of the city, with buses running regularly into the city center. Tickets are purchased on the bus from the driver for about $5 USD, and the bus runs about every hour in season.

Once into the city, the bus station is conveniently located directly across the street from the ferry port in the heart of the city center. Luggage storage lockers are readily available if you have some time to kill before your ferry departs and want to do some sightseeing.

Ferry route map for the islands off of Split to Dubrovnik

Hvar

For beautiful beaches, dramatic landscape and a buzzing nightlife, look no further than Hvar. The island claims to have the most sunny days out of anywhere in Europe. Are you sold yet?

Hvar is the most popularly visited of the Dalmatian islands, but with good reason.

        Views of Hvar Town from the fortress, Dubovica Beach and Pokonji Dol 

Don’t miss the beautiful beaches of Dubovica and Pokonji Dol, located a short drive or boat ride from Hvar Town.

Click here to view hotels and accommodation on Hvar

Rent a set of wheels and take a road trip around the island, visit the picturesque village of Stari Grad, the remains of the lavender fields in Brusje, and some of the harder to reach beaches.

Cap off your afternoon at the fortress in Hvar Town with beautiful views for miles.

Boats in the harbor of the town of Hvar

Vis

For a more remote vibe, look no further than the island of Vis. Closed to international visitors until 1989, the island was a former Yugoslav military base so is much less developed than many of the other islands.

Vis is also the farthest inhabited island from the mainland, contributing to it receiving less visitors than most.

Stay the night in the quaint fishing town of Komiza and enjoy a dinner delicious locally caught seafood at one of the many restaurants that line the riva.

For hotels and accommodation on Vis, click here.

    

 Stiniva Beach on the island of Vis

Vis is home to the Blue and Green Caves and the famous Stiniva Uvala, which was named Europe’s most beautiful beach in 2016.

Visit Stiniva Beach either via excursion boat or for the adventurous, brave the steep 45 minute hike down… Like, straight down.

To book a boat excursion, check out these options:

Once you’re down enjoy the dramatic landscape, enjoy a cold drink and watch the others following your same fate struggle to hike down.

The good news – the hike down to the beach is well-worth it, and going back up is surprisingly much easier than down.

The other good news – There’s a delicious local winery that’s open for tastings on your drive back into Komiza.

Korčula

While we didn’t personally make it to Korčula this summer, it’s worth the mention because it came very highly recommended by a number of other savvy travelers that we met along the way.

Think beautiful beaches, a quaint old town and fewer tourists than some of the other islands. This can be a great stop along your island-hopping itinerary on your way from Hvar to Dubrovnik.

READ MORE: A QUICK GUIDE TO DUBROVNIK,CROATIA

Island Hopping From Šibenik

Šibenik is a beautiful coastal city located about 1.5 hours north of Split. We spent one month here and utilized it as a jumping off point to some of the smaller Dalmatian islands.

Ferry service runs daily to some smaller, but equally charming islands:

Ferry map for islands in the Šibenik archipelago

Zlarin

The closest island to the Šibenik mainland, Zlarin is blanketed in pines and home to numerous sandy beaches.

In the area it’s known for their history of coral harvesting and beautiful coves, which are best visited by water taxi, available for hire at the marina.

    Crystal clear water off of the islet of Zirje

Zirje

The farthest out island in the Šibenik archipelago, Zirje offers visitors a true Robinson Crusoe experience.

The island’s population is under 100, but Zirje houses some of the most beautiful, clear water that we experienced in all of Croatia.

Check out the restaurants of Konoba Tratinska and Konoba Julie for freshly caught fish and beautiful views.

READ: 10 Amazing Things to Do in Šibenik, Croatia

How to Get Around the Islands

While not a requirement, getting your hands on a set a wheels for your time in the islands can make for a much more enjoyable experience as many smaller towns and beaches are outside of walking distance from the main areas.

We found the best deals by haggling in person with the rental agencies on the day of our arrival to the islands, versus booking online in advance.

Whether two or four wheels are more your speed, there are a number of options for rent for your holiday:

Business in the front, party in the back with our Suzuki rental car on Vis.

Essential Tips for Island Hopping in Croatia

Wear water shoes.

Milna village on the island of Vis

The opportunities for an amazing holiday in Croatia are endless, and it’s easy to see why its islands have become a major vacation destination. There’s so much to see and do, and we can’t wait to go back!

Have you been to Croatia? If so, where was your favorite island you visited?

Cheers,

Meredith

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By now the city of Dubrovnik is no secret, and the orange-roofed city on the Dalmatian Coast is on most people’s bucket lists. Made uber-famous by HBO’s Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik is a mandatory stop on any Croatia itinerary. While you could easily spend a week in Croatia’s crown jewel and not see it all, you can hit the highlights in one day in Dubrovnik.

   Old Town Dubrovnik, making my Westeros dreams come true

Immediately upon arrival in Dubrovnik, we realized that the Pearl of the Adriatic totally lives up to the hype.

This travel guide covers the essential information for how to plan your visit to the ancient walled city – the best things to do, where to stay, where to eat and drink, and top tips for maximizing your 24 hours in Dubrovnik.

One Day in Dubrovnik – Pin it for later!

When to Visit Dubrovnik

July and August are peak season for Croatia, so for still sunny days and lighter crowds visit in April through early June, or September through early October.

Set aside two or three nights to take it all in.

How to Get to Dubrovnik

Unlike the rest of Europe, the train system in Croatia isn’t as reliable or accessible. Utilize the following options for your arrival Dubrovnik:

By Plane

Dubrovnik has an international airport and flights run daily from major European hubs via EasyJet and RyanAir. As of this writing there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Croatia, so take advantage of the budget airlines once you arrive in Europe.

By Ferry

If traveling from Split or another island on the Dalmatian Coast, I would highly recommend taking the Jadrolinija ferry which runs daily from Split to Brač, Hvar, Korčula then on to Dubrovnik.

The ferry is a more enjoyable option than the bus and will likely get you there in the same amount of time. Traffic can be quite heavy during peak season, and the ETA you’ll see on Google Maps will be far from accurate.

The South entrance to Dubrovnik’s city walls

By Rental Car

Driving in Croatia is easy, but driving into Dubrovnik… not so much.

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is pedestrian-only, so if you are doing a road trip through Croatia I’d recommend dropping off the car prior to your arrival in Dubrovnik, as parking will be a bit challenging.

By Bus

The bus system in Croatia is a great option for getting around the country, but beware the buses often run late. Like, hours late.

Take the ferry if you can, but as a backup catch the bus that runs regularly from Split and along the coast.

The Saint Savior Church and Onofrio’s Fountain in Old Town

The quaint streets of Old Town

    The domineering city walls of Old Town have stood for centuries

Game of Thrones filming sites of the Jesuit Staircase from the “walk of shame,” main streets of Dubrovnik, the Fortress Lovrijenac watches over the Old Town 

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