Šibenik might not be the most famous town in Croatia, but it certainly ranks as one of our favorite hidden gems along the breathtaking Dalmatian coast. This enchanting city is home to a stunning cathedral that proudly holds a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, showcasing remarkable architecture and rich history. The old town, with its charming stone buildings and narrow, winding streets, has even been featured in the hit TV series Game of Thrones, adding an extra layer of allure for visitors.
Wandering through the maze-like streets, you’ll discover countless atmospheric corners filled with cozy cafes, local shops, and vibrant markets that bring the city’s unique character to life. The blend of historical significance, cultural charm, and natural beauty makes Šibenik an unforgettable destination. We immediately fell in love with its welcoming vibe and timeless old center.
In this blog, we’ll take you on a detailed journey through the sights of Šibenik, sharing practical tips and insider recommendations to help you experience everything this picturesque city has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, a Game of Thrones fan, or simply a lover of beautiful places, Šibenik has something special waiting for you.
Where is Šibenik?
Šibenik is a charming and picturesque town situated on the beautiful Croatian coast, right in the heart of the Dalmatia region. It lies conveniently between two larger, more famous cities—Split and Zadar—making it an easily accessible destination for travelers exploring this part of Croatia. If you rent a car, you can easily reach Šibenik in less than an hour from Split and its international airport, allowing for a quick and comfortable journey. From Zadar, which also offers direct flights from the Netherlands and many other countries, the drive takes about an hour as well, making Šibenik a great option whether you’re arriving from the south or the north of the Dalmatian coast.
Šibenik’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring many other popular and historically rich sights in Croatia within a relatively short distance. Aside from the nearby vibrant cities of Split and Zadar, you can easily take day trips to the ancient Roman city of Solin, known for its fascinating archaeological sites; the romantic UNESCO-listed island town of Trogir, famous for its stunning architecture and waterfront; or the breathtaking natural beauty of Krka National Park, where waterfalls and scenic trails await.
Of course, the reverse is also true: you can visit Šibenik as a day trip from any of these nearby places, especially if you’re based in Split or Zadar. This flexibility makes Šibenik a perfect stop on your Croatian itinerary, whether you want to explore the surrounding region in depth or simply spend time soaking up the charm and history of the town itself. With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and easy accessibility, Šibenik offers visitors a memorable and enjoyable experience on the Dalmatian coast.
Where to Stay in Šibenik
Although you can visit Šibenik as a day trip from other destinations on the Dalmatian coast, we can well imagine that you would like to stay longer in this charming coastal town and are looking for a nice hotel in Šibenik to fully enjoy your visit.
We recommend that you look for accommodation in or around the Old Town area, so that you stay close to the main sights and attractions of Šibenik. This will give you the opportunity to explore the historic streets and landmarks at your own pace, without having to worry about transportation. Being nearby means you can easily experience the local atmosphere, enjoy traditional restaurants, and take in the town’s unique charm well into the evening. Staying near the Old Town truly enhances your visit and allows you to make the most of your time in this beautiful Dalmatian destination.
Booking.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u + ‘?v=’ + (+new Date()); p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘//cf.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js’);Some nice hotels in Šibenik are:
#1 Bed & breakfast St. Clara, which boasts a prime location right in the heart of the old town. It offers both modern furnished rooms and spacious apartments, combining comfort with convenience so you can fully enjoy the historic surroundings.
#2 King Kresimir Heritage Hotel is a great adults-only option set within an attractive city palace. Guests can indulge in luxurious rooms, savor an extensive breakfast, and relax on a private terrace, making it perfect for a romantic or peaceful getaway.
#3 Hostel Scala is located just outside the old town but offers budget-friendly room rates without compromising on comfort. It features an outdoor pool, a lively bar, a charming garden, and private rooms (although without private bathrooms), providing great value for travelers.
#4 Heritage Hotel Life Palace stands out as a luxury hotel designed in a special Renaissance style. This unique hotel offers elegance and a historical atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate refined surroundings and a touch of grandeur.
#5 Solaris Beach Resort, while situated outside the historic city center, is definitely worth considering. This well-equipped resort offers excellent facilities and a relaxing environment, ideal if you want to enjoy both the coastal vibe and easy access to Šibenik’s attractions.
Things to do in Šibenik: 5 most beautiful sights
#1 The Cathedral of Šibenik
Saint James Cathedral, known as Katedrala sv. Jakova in Croatian, is the most iconic landmark and the main attraction of Šibenik. This stunning white-stone cathedral is truly a sight to behold. With its striking design and rich history, it’s no surprise that this fifteenth-century masterpiece has earned a well-deserved spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
What makes the construction of this cathedral especially remarkable is the fact that it was built entirely out of stone, without the use of any nails, wooden supports, or other fasteners. This extraordinary method of building remained a hidden secret for centuries, only coming to light during restoration efforts after the cathedral was severely damaged by a bombing raid in 1991. It was then that the full extent of the craftsmanship and ingenuity involved in its construction was truly revealed.came to light during the restoration.
Another unusual and interesting feature of the cathedral is the absence of a tall bell tower rising above the rooftops of Šibenik. Unlike many European churches that have towering spires, Saint James Cathedral doesn’t stand out in that way. The reason? There was already a bell tower nearby. And since Šibenik’s old town is full of churches, the builders apparently decided that another tall tower simply wasn’t necessary.nsidered necessary.
A fun and quirky detail that makes the cathedral even more memorable is the row of sculpted heads carved into the side walls of the building. There are over 70 in total, said to represent local men from Šibenik at the time the cathedral was built. But here’s a charming twist: among all the male faces, the architect secretly included the head of a woman, his own daughter, leaving behind a personal touch in this historical monument.
#2 The Old Town
Šibenik proudly holds the title of being one of the oldest towns founded by native Croats themselves. While many other towns along the Croatian coast boast ancient histories shaped by Greeks or Romans, Šibenik’s story begins later, but with a distinctly local origin. At first glance, the areas outside the historic center may not seem all that special. Šibenik’s modern outskirts are marked by concrete buildings and a more practical feel. But the moment you step into the car-free historic center, everything changes, and you instantly understand why so many visitors fall in love with this coastal gem.this place.
The Old Town of Šibenik is like a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, steep stone staircases, quaint old squares, charming churches, bustling shopping streets, and inviting hidden corners. The area is almost entirely free of cars, and once you see how narrow and winding the streets are, it becomes clear why. This pedestrian-friendly design adds to the peaceful and timeless atmosphere of the town.
One of the absolute best ways to enjoy Šibenik is simply to wander through its atmospheric Old Town. Nearly every turn reveals another picture-perfect scene. From flower-filled balconies and brightly painted shutters in shades of green and blue to intricately carved old doors, the charm is truly in the details. Every corner has its own personality, and you’ll find yourself reaching for your camera again and again.
It’s no surprise, then, that Šibenik has caught the eye of filmmakers. In fact, the Old Town served as a filming location for the hit series Game of Thrones. Fans might recognize it as the city of Braavos, where Arya Stark spends part of Season 5. Whether or not you’re a fan of the show, this bit of trivia only adds to the magical feel of walking through a place that blends history, beauty, and storytelling in such a seamless way.
#3 The four fortresses
Šibenik has done a remarkable job of protecting itself throughout the centuries, thanks to its impressive network of four fortresses: St. Ivan, St. Mihovil, St. Nikola, and Barone. Each of these historic strongholds has its own story to tell and adds to the city’s rich cultural landscape.
The Barone Fortress, also known as Tvrđava Šubićevac, stands proudly on a high hill, offering sweeping panoramic views over the entire city and coastline. This elevated position once made it a strategic lookout, and today it gives visitors the perfect vantage point to admire Šibenik from above. Inside, the fortress has been transformed into a modern museum showcasing the city’s history through engaging 3D animations and cutting-edge AR (augmented reality) technology. You’ll find Barone Fortress just east of the historic center, making it an easy stop on your sightseeing itinerary. A combination ticket also grants you access to the nearby St. Michael Fortress, making it a great value for history lovers.
St. Michael’s Fortress, or Tvrđava Sv. Mihovila, towers directly above Šibenik’s Old Town and is believed to be the oldest of the four. It played a vital role in the city’s defense for centuries. To reach the fortress, you simply follow the well-marked signs from the Old Town. Be prepared for a bit of a steep climb, but the reward is absolutely worth it: breathtaking views over the red rooftops, the shimmering Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands. Today, the fortress is not only a historic monument but also a cultural hotspot, with a large grandstand inside that hosts open-air concerts and performances throughout the warmer months. Watching a show here with the sea breeze and city lights in the background is truly a memorable experience.
A little less crowded but no less interesting is St. John’s Fortress, or Tvrđava Sv. Ivana, located just outside the city center. According to legend, this defensive structure was built in an astonishingly short time—just two months—during the 17th century, when Šibenik needed urgent protection from advancing Ottoman forces. Despite its quieter location, the fortress is an essential part of the city’s heritage and has recently gained attention as one of the many filming locations used in Game of Thrones. Fans of the series will enjoy recognizing the site from scenes set in Westeros.
The fourth fortress, St. Nicholas Fortress – or Tvrđava Sv. Nikole – boasts the most unique and romantic setting of them all. Positioned in the sea at the entrance to Šibenik’s channel, this small yet mighty fortress once guarded the city from naval attacks. Designed by a Venetian architect in the 16th century, it is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite being the smallest of the four, it holds an important place in Šibenik’s military history. Interestingly, the fortress remained an official part of Croatia’s military defense system until as recently as 1979. To visit St. Nicholas Fortress, you’ll need to hop on a boat, but the scenic ride only adds to the experience and the sense of adventure.
Each of these fortresses offers a different view of Šibenik’s past and showcases the city’s resilience, creativity, and architectural heritage. Whether you visit one or explore them all, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for this beautiful coastal city and its storied past.
#4 The Town Hall
Right next to the famous St. James Cathedral lies the historic heart of Šibenik: the medieval town square known as the Square of the Republic of Croatia. This charming square is one of the most atmospheric spots in the city, where centuries of history come together in a surprisingly intimate space. Alongside the cathedral, the eye is immediately drawn to another impressive structure: Šibenik’s Town Hall. With its striking Renaissance design dating back to the sixteenth century, it is considered one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks. Its elegant architecture stands out thanks to its symmetrical lines, grand columns, graceful arches, ornate balustrades, and a harmonious blend of decorative details, and yes, even more columns.
The Town Hall once held a key role in Šibenik’s civic life and was among the city’s most important and prestigious buildings. Unfortunately, the structure that stands there today is no longer the original. It was heavily damaged and destroyed during World War II. What visitors see today is a carefully crafted replica of the original Renaissance building, lovingly rebuilt to restore the square’s historic charm. While the façade remains faithful to its past, the interior was redesigned during the reconstruction to meet the needs of modern times, blending the old with the new in a subtle and respectful way.
#5 Food & Drink in Šibenik
We were genuinely impressed by the cozy terrace culture in Šibenik. Every square and every street that’s even slightly wide enough seems to be filled with inviting terraces! With Italy just across the Adriatic, it’s no surprise that Italian cuisine features heavily on many menus. You’ll find pizza, pasta, and creamy risottos almost everywhere in Šibenik. But alongside those Italian favorites, you’ll also discover delicious local specialties, along with a great selection of Croatian beers and wines that make it all too tempting to settle down and relax on one of the many sunny terraces.ne of the many terraces.
Are you, like us, vegetarian? Then you’ll be happy to know that Šibenik also caters well to plant-based diets, with several hip hotspots in the old town offering vegetarian and vegan options. We enjoyed a lovely lunch at the vegan-friendly spot O’DA, but we had also noticed other great places like Pa’Kai, a pokébowl paradise, and the Sushi & Juice Bar, where the vegetarian sushi looked like a strong contender.
For those with a sweet tooth, we highly recommend Yum Pastry Shop. This spot serves delicious cakes in a super cute interior, or you can enjoy your treat on their spacious outdoor terrace. With a small playground set up right in the middle of the terrace, it also turned out to be a perfect break for us as young parents, giving our little one a chance to play while we recharged with something sweet.
Best Things to Do near Sibenik
#6 A boat trip along the islands
Like many other charming coastal towns in Croatia, Šibenik boasts a beautiful and inviting coastline. Just off its shores lie a mix of small and larger islands, making it especially enjoyable to explore the area by boat or on a kayak trip across the calm, sparkling sea near Šibenik. It’s a wonderful way to take in the natural beauty from the water and discover hidden coves or quiet beaches you might otherwise miss.
As you take a walk along the promenade in Šibenik, you’ll come across a variety of boats bobbing gently in the harbor. Along the way, you’ll also pass by several local tour providers who are more than happy to tell you all about the best boat excursions that depart from Šibenik. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise, an adventurous day of island hopping, or a peaceful kayaking experience, you’ll find plenty of options to make the most of your time on the Adriatic Sea.
#7 Split
Just an hour’s drive from Šibenik lies the famous city of Split. While this lively coastal city is best known for its vibrant nightlife and countless hours of sunshine, it’s also a truly fascinating historic destination that’s well worth a visit.
Read more: discover the most beautiful sights in Split.
Split’s long and rich history dates all the way back to the Roman Empire, when a retired Roman emperor chose this location to build his enormous palace. Over time, this ancient Roman palace slowly transformed into what we now know as the heart of modern-day Split. As centuries passed, the palace became home to local residents who gradually built houses and structures within its walls, covering almost every free space. Today, Split is not just a city with Roman ruins: the city itself is the palace. When this architectural wonder was officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was actually the entire old town of Split that earned its spot on the famous list.
While spending time in Split, be sure to explore every corner of this remarkable ancient palace. Walk through the narrow alleyways and feel as if you’ve stepped back into the Middle Ages. Don’t miss the cathedral, which originally served as Emperor Diocletian’s mausoleum, or the mysterious catacombs beneath the old palace, a filming location for scenes from Game of Thrones. Beyond the historic core, you’ll also find a sunny promenade by the sea, lively squares filled with cafés, and some lovely city beaches that are perfect for relaxing. With so much to see and do, Split can easily keep you entertained for several days.
#8 Krka . waterfalls
Krka National Park is without a doubt one of the most stunning natural areas in all of Croatia. From Šibenik, it takes about an hour to reach this breathtaking park by car. The park is best known for its many impressive waterfalls, with the most famous one being Skradinski Buk. This waterfall is so iconic that many people refer to it simply as the Krka waterfall, just like the park itself.
The Krka waterfall is the largest and most popular waterfall in the park, and it’s easy to see why. Spanning a width of around one hundred meters, with a series of cascades tumbling down over moss-covered rocks, it creates a spectacular sight. The water finally flows into a crystal-clear green pool, where small fish swim peacefully beneath the surface. Unfortunately, swimming is no longer allowed here, but the beauty of the place more than makes up for it. A wooden boardwalk has been built around the falls, allowing you to take a scenic circular walk of about an hour. Do keep in mind that it can get quite crowded, especially during high season.
One of the most enjoyable ways to reach the Krka waterfalls is via the Skradin entrance of the national park. Unlike the Lozovac entrance, where you walk directly to the falls, at Skradin you board a free boat that takes you on a peaceful 25-minute ride over the river, bringing you closer to nature even before you reach the main attraction.
Beyond Skradinski Buk, the park has so much more to offer. You’ll discover other beautiful waterfalls, hidden spots, and scenic trails that are just waiting to be explored. That’s why it’s highly recommended to set aside a full day for your visit to Krka National Park from Šibenik, there’s far too much natural beauty here to rush through.
#9 Trogir
Trogir is without a doubt our favorite destination in all of Croatia. No other city along the Dalmatian coast feels quite as photogenic, charming, and romantic as this little gem. The historic center of Trogir is beautifully located on a small island just off the coast, creating a postcard-perfect setting. Connected by bridges to both the mainland and the modern part of Trogir, it’s easy to reach and remains one of Croatia’s most beloved tourist attractions.
Looking for the best way to explore Trogir? Check out our detailed tips about the top things to do in Trogir, where we share insider advice on the top sights, the coziest cafés, hidden alleys worth wandering, and the best spots for sunset views. Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, or just want to soak up the charming atmosphere, these tips will help you experience Trogir like a local and make your visit truly unforgettable.
Thanks to its strategic position, Trogir has been a highly sought-after location throughout history. Many different rulers have tried to claim it over the centuries, and each of them has left a unique mark on the cityscape, especially the Venetians. Their influence can still be seen everywhere, and Trogir’s rich and layered history is reflected in its incredibly well-preserved old town. It’s no surprise that the entire historic center has been awarded a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
You can easily lose track of time wandering through the maze-like streets of Trogir, only to find yourself drawn to one of the many inviting terraces. The old town was originally designed as a labyrinth to make it harder for enemies to attack and invade. Even today, it’s quite easy to get turned around in the narrow alleyways and hidden corners of the city. But that’s actually part of the fun; getting lost in Trogir is one of the best ways to discover its magic. Don’t worry, you’ll always end up back at one of its main landmarks, such as the beautiful cathedral or the Riva promenade by the water.
#10 Zadar
As one of the lesser-known gems along the Dalmatian coast, you might assume that Zadar isn’t really worth taking a day trip from Šibenik. But nothing could be further from the truth. This charming coastal city boasts a beautiful old town full of fascinating sights, along with plenty of inviting restaurants and lively terraces where you can relax and soak up the local atmosphere.
Zadar’s rich history stretches back centuries, and that heritage shines through in its many ancient landmarks. At the heart of the city, you’ll discover the remains of the old Roman forum, the main square during Zadar’s Roman era. Right beside the forum stands the striking Church of Saint Donatus, a uniquely round building that’s well worth a visit. Be sure to climb the stairs that lead to the colonnade, where you can walk around the circular structure and appreciate its unusual architecture from every angle. Nearby, the tower that you see doesn’t belong to Saint Donatus, but rather to the impressive Zadar Cathedral, adding another layer to the city’s historic skyline.
Yet beyond its rich history and classical monuments, Zadar is perhaps best known for one of the most unusual and enchanting attractions on the Croatian coast: the Sea Organ. What’s that, you ask? This innovative piece of art is located at the top of Zadar’s bustling Riva promenade. Along the coastline, you’ll notice a set of wide stone steps leading down to the sea, where locals and visitors alike gather to sit, relax, and listen. Hidden beneath these steps is the Sea Organ itself, a musical instrument played by the waves. As the water moves in and out with each wave, it flows through a series of tubes and whistles, creating hauntingly beautiful melodies that fill the air with natural music.
Right next to this captivating sea symphony is another masterpiece by the same artist: the Salutation to the Sun. This large circular installation, made up of solar cells embedded in the ground, captures the sun’s energy throughout the day. Then, as evening falls, it comes alive with a dazzling light show, illuminating the waterfront with colorful patterns and creating a magical atmosphere that lasts well into the night.
