15 Things To Do in Sibenik, Croatia

Sibenik, Croatia is an absolute gem! In fact, we believe that Sibenik is one of the best cities to see in Croatia. We have visited on a day trip and have made it our base for a week-long stay. From our personal experiences, we are highlighting the Best Things To Do in Sibenik, Croatia!

 

Planning What To Do in Sibenik, Croatia

Those traveling to Sibenik from abroad should read our tips for How To Plan your Croatia Vacation. For 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!

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15 Best Things To Do in Sibenik, Croatia

As we already mentioned, on our first trip we spent one day in Sibenik. This was just long enough to see a few top attractions and we highlight those in our list first.

On our week-long stay, we discovered a multitude of Sibenik things to do – from island-hopping 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 Guide to plan your trip to Croatia!

 

#1 Sibenik Cathedral

The enormous and impressive St. James Cathedral is a must-see! Made completely from stone – it dates to the 15th century and was built over a 100-year period from 1431 to 1535. The grand, towering dome can be seen from afar – but the up-close views are truly impressive. Standing on the steps, the intricately designed main façade of the church looms large overhead. 

 

Visiting St. James Cathedral

The interior of the St. James Cathedral 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 is open during the hours of 9:30am to 7:30pm.

 

What To See at St. James Cathedral 

Inside the dark interior of the church are ornate side altars and an extraordinary main altar. However, the highlight 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, 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 

Once a heavily fortified city, there are four remaining fortresses in Sibenik. Three of these 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 

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 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.

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 center. Entry tickets are required to access St. Michael’s Fortress year round. 

 

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. 

In addition to the reconstructed site and fine sea views, guests are able to experience 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. Although it fell to partial ruins, a complete renovation was finished in 2022 and it is now open to the public 

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

Pro Tip: Guest 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 to the city is Banj Beach, which is less than a mile 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. 

While Banj is the closest, there are other Sibenik, Croatia beaches outside of the channel. The top choices 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 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. 

 

#5 St. Lawrence Monastery 

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 remains of the bell tower 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. 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 

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. Other visitors might want to join a walking tour (find out more!).

 

More Sibenik Churches

On our walks, we never strolled far before stumbling onto yet another Sibenik church. 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.

 

Other 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 the city 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 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 Visit other Coastal Towns

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

 

Vodice 

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.

 

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.

 

#13 St. Nicholas Fortress

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!).

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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 

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 

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 

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. 

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Sibenik Map of Attractions

Use this link to Google Maps for our Sibenik, Croatia map online.

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Sibenik Travel Tips

Now that you know all of the best things to do, 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! 

 

Where To Eat in Sibenik

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. 

 

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

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.

 

Where To Stay in Sibenik

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 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 offers modern sea-facing rooms at reasonable prices – check availability for your trip!

The Adults Only Heritage 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!

 

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.

 

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 

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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