If you’re visiting Croatia this summer, Sibenik could be a perfect day trip for you. This small town is so charming you’ll want to stay forever. Keep reading to learn what you can do and see in Sibenik in one day!
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WHERE IS SIBENIK
Sibenik is a town located in the central part of the Croatian coast, in the region of Dalmatia. The small yet gorgeous city is known for its historical architecture, fortresses, and proximity to the Krka National Park. If you like small historical towns and national parks, Sibenik must find its way into your itinerary!
READ MORE >>> CROATIA: PERFECT 5-DAY DALMATIA ITINERARY
HOW TO REACH SIBENIK
Šibenik is easily accessible by various means of transportation due to its central location on the Adriatic coast in Croatia. I will go through the easiest and quickest ways to reach this town from most popular points of Croatia.
FROM SPLIT TO SIBENIK
The easiest way to reach Sibenik from Split is by driving. You can drive from Split to Šibenik via the A1 motorway and it will take you approximately 1 hour to reach the town. If you don’t have a car, consider renting one for a day trip!
If you don’t drive or don’t have a car there’s always the bus option. Lucky for you, there are frequent bus services from Split to Šibenik and the bus ride takes approximately the same amount of time as a car (1-1.5 hours). You can check out and buy bus tickets here.
FROM ZADAR TO SIBENIK
If you’re driving from Zadar to Sibenik, it will take you around 1 hour to reach it. Croatian highways are great so the drive will be really enjoyable and quick.
If you prefer to take the bus, there are regular bus services from Zadar to Šibenik. The journey by bus takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, but it’s still a great option if you don’t have a car. Get your online tickets here!
SIBENIK PARKING
In Šibenik, there are several parking options available for visitors, both paid and free. Here are some general guidelines on where to park in Šibenik:
There are several parking lots and garages located in or near the city center. You pay an hourly rate for a parking spot. Moreover, there are also various on-street parking spaces available throughout the city, but make sure to check for parking signs and pay at the parking meter if required.
We parked our car the Main Train Station Parking, and it was free on Sunday!
WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN SIBENIK IN ONE DAY
Here are the best things to do and see in Sibenik Old Town and nearby in order to have the best experience in this lovely town.
ST. JAMES’ CATHEDRAL
The stunning cathedral can be found in the center of the old town and it’s the key landmark of Sibenik. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, so you absolutely must check it out. Also, make sure you notice the impressive frieze of 71 sculpted faces on the cathedral’s exterior.
This cathedral is the only cathedral in Europe constructed entirely of stone, and it took them over 105 hears to build it. The entrance to the cathedral is 2 euros, or if you want you can attend a mass and experience the cathedral that way.
ST. MICHAEL’S FORTRESS
Only a 5-minute walk from the cathedral you’ll find St. Michael’s Fortress – a historic fortress offering panoramic views of Šibenik and the Adriatic Sea. The fortress hosts various cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year and you can enter it for 11,50 € per person.
The views are truly magical so if you like panoramic views of the gorgeous old towns make sure you check this one out!
ST. NICHOLAS’ FORTRESS
Located at the entrance of Šibenik’s channel, this fortress is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s absolutely stunning and incredibly unique. You can only visit it by booking a boat tour.
If you’d like to visit this fortress, there’s an information center for it fairly close to the old town where you can find out everything you need to know. Overall, it’s a great place to explore and learn about the city’s defensive history.
KRKA NATIONAL PARK
If you have enough time, this national park must be on your itinerary. Located just a short drive from Šibenik, Krka National Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls, lakes, and lush landscapes. It’s absolutely stunning and it will take you around 2-3 hours to explore it. The tickets are 40 euros during the summer season and cheaper off-season. Read my guide to Krka NP for more information.
KORNATI ISLANDS
If you’ve already visited Krka NP, a day trip to the Kornati Islands could be a great additional trip for you. You can explore the stunning archipelago with its crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and unique rock formations.
Kornati Islands are home to the Kornati National Park which was established in 1980 to protect the unique natural beauty and biodiversity of the islands and surrounding waters. You can only access the NP by boat, so if you don’t have your own boat you need to book a boat tour in order to explore this NP.
LOCAL CUISINE
The last thing you need to do is to try some excellent local cuisine. In Sibenik you should sample traditional Dalmatian dishes like seafood, grilled meats, and local cheeses. Sibenik has many great restaurants and taverns, so you surely won’t be disappointed.