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Dalmatia - Šibenik
A land of forts, the flying man, and islands created from tears, stars, and breath
Embraced by the Adriatic Sea and the mighty Dinara, the part of Dalmatia around Šibenik will amaze you with its national parks, magnificent rivers, and spectacular locations.
Welcome to the land of grandiose forts, pearly waterfalls, and Faust Vrančić – the flying man. The Šibenik region will turn you into an adventure novel hero ready to discover the highest mountain peaks in Croatia, the smallest islands in the Adriatic, and stone structures boasting traces of rich history.
Where to go?
From waterfalls to the stars
Throughout history, many writers have fallen in love with the beauties of Croatia, which inspired them to write their beautiful poems.
One of them was the famous Irish writer and Nobel Prize winner George Bernard Shaw, who dedicated these magical verses to his muse – the Kornati islands: “On the last day of creation, God desired to crown His work, and thus created the Kornati islands out of tears, stars, and breath.”
Kornati
There are places that make you fall in love at first sight, filling you with sheer joy as you immerse yourself in the splendour of nature. This encapsulates Kornati National Park – a captivating spectacle of majestic cliffs set against the backdrop of the Šibenik archipelago, comprising 89 islands, islets, and crags spread across 217 km2 named after its crown jewel, the island Kornat (with Žut Island, the second largest, lying just outside the National Park’s perimeter). Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary landscapes, pristine waters, and rich history of the most indented island group in the Mediterranean.
Krka
Krka National Park, located near the historic city of Šibenik, is one of Croatia’s most captivating gems. Immerse yourself in the heart of nature, where the enchanting Krka River, with the finesse of a masterful artist, has sculpted a kingdom of canyons, travertine barriers, lakes, and magnificent waterfalls such as Skradinski Buk, Roški Slap, or Manojlovac. Embraced by the vibrant greenery of the park, embark on foot, bicycle, or boat to discover the echoes of a storied past: from the enchanting islet of Visovac to the tranquil Krka Monastery and the ancient Roman military camp of Burnum.
Velebit
Poets celebrate its beauty, travel writers praise it with the most beautiful words, it is a challenge for explorers and hikers can not get enough of it. Velebit, this simultaneously beautiful, wild and rugged mythical mountain in the heart of Croatia, has been protected as a UNESCO Global Biosphere Reserve since 1978. Three years later, it was declared a nature park and, with its surface area of 1829 square kilometres, it is the largest Croatian protected area. Within the boundaries of Velebit Nature Park there are also two national parks — Northern Velebit and Paklenica, which covers the southern part of Velebit.
Vrana Lake
Vrana Lake is the largest natural lake in Croatia and, in addition to the lower course of the river Neretva, the only larger wetland in the Croatian part of the Mediterranean. The karst field in the Zadar hinterland was flooded with water 12 000 years ago and over time, a magical lake was created. For centuries, its shore had attracted both secular and religious leaders who built fortresses there, and today it is a real bird's paradise, one of the most valuable ornithological areas in Croatia. It is sure to amaze you with its beauty; you will enjoy the silence of the picturesque Dalmatian landscape and discover a new side of Dalmatia. Vrana Lake Nature Park was granted its status in 1999, covers 57 square kilometres, and its north-western portion is an ornithological reserve.
Dinara
The beauty of the rugged karst landscape of Dinara, the mountain massif located in the hinterland of Dalmatia, is to be discovered in its sinkholes, karrens, fields, caves and pits. There is something in this wilderness that calls, invites exploration, instils respect and, at the same time, soothes as well as relaxes. For centuries, people and stone have intertwined their stories here, loved and respected each other, stole from each other and gave each other life. You will learn about this strong connection at Dinara Nature Park, declared as such in 2021. Within its surface area of 629.48 square kilometres, it includes the mountains Dinara, Troglav and Kamešnica as well as the source of Cetina and its upper course with Hrvatačko Polje, Paško Polje and Vrličko Polje.
Kornati
There are places that make you fall in love at first sight, filling you with sheer joy as you immerse yourself in the splendour of nature. This encapsulates Kornati National Park – a captivating spectacle of majestic cliffs set against the backdrop of the Šibenik archipelago, comprising 89 islands, islets, and crags spread across 217 km2 named after its crown jewel, the island Kornat (with Žut Island, the second largest, lying just outside the National Park’s perimeter). Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary landscapes, pristine waters, and rich history of the most indented island group in the Mediterranean.
Krka
Krka National Park, located near the historic city of Šibenik, is one of Croatia’s most captivating gems. Immerse yourself in the heart of nature, where the enchanting Krka River, with the finesse of a masterful artist, has sculpted a kingdom of canyons, travertine barriers, lakes, and magnificent waterfalls such as Skradinski Buk, Roški Slap, or Manojlovac. Embraced by the vibrant greenery of the park, embark on foot, bicycle, or boat to discover the echoes of a storied past: from the enchanting islet of Visovac to the tranquil Krka Monastery and the ancient Roman military camp of Burnum.
Velebit
Poets celebrate its beauty, travel writers praise it with the most beautiful words, it is a challenge for explorers and hikers can not get enough of it. Velebit, this simultaneously beautiful, wild and rugged mythical mountain in the heart of Croatia, has been protected as a UNESCO Global Biosphere Reserve since 1978. Three years later, it was declared a nature park and, with its surface area of 1829 square kilometres, it is the largest Croatian protected area. Within the boundaries of Velebit Nature Park there are also two national parks — Northern Velebit and Paklenica, which covers the southern part of Velebit.
Vrana Lake
Vrana Lake is the largest natural lake in Croatia and, in addition to the lower course of the river Neretva, the only larger wetland in the Croatian part of the Mediterranean. The karst field in the Zadar hinterland was flooded with water 12 000 years ago and over time, a magical lake was created. For centuries, its shore had attracted both secular and religious leaders who built fortresses there, and today it is a real bird's paradise, one of the most valuable ornithological areas in Croatia. It is sure to amaze you with its beauty; you will enjoy the silence of the picturesque Dalmatian landscape and discover a new side of Dalmatia. Vrana Lake Nature Park was granted its status in 1999, covers 57 square kilometres, and its north-western portion is an ornithological reserve.
Dinara
The beauty of the rugged karst landscape of Dinara, the mountain massif located in the hinterland of Dalmatia, is to be discovered in its sinkholes, karrens, fields, caves and pits. There is something in this wilderness that calls, invites exploration, instils respect and, at the same time, soothes as well as relaxes. For centuries, people and stone have intertwined their stories here, loved and respected each other, stole from each other and gave each other life. You will learn about this strong connection at Dinara Nature Park, declared as such in 2021. Within its surface area of 629.48 square kilometres, it includes the mountains Dinara, Troglav and Kamešnica as well as the source of Cetina and its upper course with Hrvatačko Polje, Paško Polje and Vrličko Polje.
Kornati
There are places that make you fall in love at first sight, filling you with sheer joy as you immerse yourself in the splendour of nature. This encapsulates Kornati National Park – a captivating spectacle of majestic cliffs set against the backdrop of the Šibenik archipelago, comprising 89 islands, islets, and crags spread across 217 km2 named after its crown jewel, the island Kornat (with Žut Island, the second largest, lying just outside the National Park’s perimeter). Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary landscapes, pristine waters, and rich history of the most indented island group in the Mediterranean.
Krka
Krka National Park, located near the historic city of Šibenik, is one of Croatia’s most captivating gems. Immerse yourself in the heart of nature, where the enchanting Krka River, with the finesse of a masterful artist, has sculpted a kingdom of canyons, travertine barriers, lakes, and magnificent waterfalls such as Skradinski Buk, Roški Slap, or Manojlovac. Embraced by the vibrant greenery of the park, embark on foot, bicycle, or boat to discover the echoes of a storied past: from the enchanting islet of Visovac to the tranquil Krka Monastery and the ancient Roman military camp of Burnum.
Velebit
Poets celebrate its beauty, travel writers praise it with the most beautiful words, it is a challenge for explorers and hikers can not get enough of it. Velebit, this simultaneously beautiful, wild and rugged mythical mountain in the heart of Croatia, has been protected as a UNESCO Global Biosphere Reserve since 1978. Three years later, it was declared a nature park and, with its surface area of 1829 square kilometres, it is the largest Croatian protected area. Within the boundaries of Velebit Nature Park there are also two national parks — Northern Velebit and Paklenica, which covers the southern part of Velebit.
Best of upcoming Events
Adventure Šibenik
Only Happy Days
11/27/2026 to 1/10/2027
Šibenik will shine with festive spirit during Adventura! Throughout December, experience the magic of the holiday season in the heart of the historic old town, with a cheerful atmosphere, seasonal culinary delights, music, and festive gatherings.
Advent in Vodice
12/11/2026 to 1/2/2027
Vodice will once again shine in festive splendour this winter, offering great entertainment and exceptional gastronomy. Set in the charming surroundings of the town park at Prince Branimir Square, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations and filled with the aromas of local delicacies, Vodice will host a rich programme for all generations.
The Kornati National Park consisting of 89 islands, islets, rocks, and reefs is the most beautiful Adriatic stone fleet, where time slows down and every day of your stay turns into a holiday.
The islands are adorned with the famous Kornati crowns, i.e. vertical cliffs facing the open sea. According to folk tales, the large slate, or Magazin's slate, was created by fairies, and its kilometres of dry stone walls under the protection of UNESCO constitute an everlasting monument to human labour.
In addition to the famous Kornati islands, a true nautical paradise also awaits you on the other islands of the Šibenik archipelago. The secluded offshore Žirje, rich in fish, is the perfect place for modern Robinsons. The island of Kaprije was named after the Mediterranean caper plant whose buds are used as a spice. The most prominent coral divers in the Adriatic come from the island of Zlarin, while the smallest and most scarcely populated Adriatic island of Krapanj boasts masters of sponge harvesting and diving. You can learn more about them in the island’s Diving Museum.
Beaches
Male Vrulje Beach
Male Vrulje beach is a pebbly lagoon, with a gentle and shallow entrance to the sea. Above the beach there extends a pine tree forest, which provides pleasant shade. . Along the beach there are places to eat and shop, and its special feature is its pool for playing water polo.
Srima Beach
Srima beach is located in the centre of the same-named village, and it flies the Blue Flag. It has been completely adapted for people with disabilities, whilst a lifeguard service watches over the swimmers. There is also a place to eat and drink on the beach.
Vićevica Beach
Vićevica beach is located in the western part of the town and is known for its long pebbly sunbathing area and the shade of the nearby pine trees. A wonderful view of the nearby islands extends from the beach.
Lovetovo Cove
Lovetovo cove on the eastern part of Vodice is famous for its peaceful, pebbly beaches in the shade of tamarisk shrubs.
Velika Raduča Beach
Velika Raduča is a famous Primošten beach located on the northern coast of the peninsula, in a beautiful cove with a view of the turquoise sea and the island of Smokvica. The beach has natural shade and numerous entertainment facilities.
Brodarica Beach
Brodarica beach did not always have such an attractive and modern look. Today it is a modern, landscaped and family beach with all the necessary amenities that with its view and look is attracting an increasing number of visitors and bathers.
Lolić Beach
Lolić beach is a partly sandy, mostly pebble beach. It is the main beach in Pirovac and a holder of a Blue Flag. The beach faces south and is protected by the bay which is why the sea is always calmer and warmer; ideal for small children.
Beaches on the Kornati Islands
The lunar landscapes of the Kornati islands are ideal destinations for "Robinson Crusoe" tourism. Countless bays of hundred of islands which have the protected status of a national park, overwhelm the sailors. The Kornati beaches are a paradise for divers, boaters and anyone who wants to enjoy the solitude. The beaches are, individually, shingle or sandy, shallow and suitable for children.
Makirina Bay
Healing mud is the first association tourists have when visiting this delightful beach near Pirovac. Along with the peloid mud, there are also the higher average temperature of the sea and the humidity of the air which bring further beneficial effects to the body for those eager for rest. Makirina Bay is a sandy beach and the sea is clear and shallow. This is the right place for a break in natural environment away from the crowds.
Banj town beach, Šibenik
Banj beach is a town beach which is located just a few minutes’ walk from the old town centre. It was built in 2012 and is equipped with a large number of facilities for children and adults, as well as with all the safety features.
White Beach
The fine shingle of Bijela plaža (White Beach) in front of the Amadria Park resort in Šibenik, that is the place where many children learned to swim. The landscaped beach resort is filled with a variety of additional facilities along the 700 metres of coastline.
Dog-friendly Beach Vodice
Vodice has three separate beaches for dogs – one is located in the centre of the town, and the other two are situated on the far west of Vodice and the far east of Srima village. All the dog-friendly beaches are pebbly and there is a car park nearby.
Island of Prvić
The island of Prvić offers several beaches, and the most famous and largest is located in the village of Prvić Šepurine. This is a pebbly beach in a large natural cove, near a pine tree forest, ideal for a whole day's relaxation.
Plava (Blue) Beach
Plava (Blue) beach is the most famous of Vodice’s beaches, and it flies the Blue Flag. Known for its shallow sea, it is ideal for children. The tall vegetation alongside the beach provides visitors with a pleasant stay, and they can relax and eat and drink in one of the catering establishments. It is suitable for people with disabilities.
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Bristak Beach
Bristak beach is a beautiful pebbly beach located at the end of Tribunj, on the way towards Vodice. Access to the beach is extremely easy. It can also be reached by car, and a car park is nearby. It is the longest beach in Tribunj and is suitable for families with children and everyone eager for the clean sea and fun in the sun.
Hangar – Olympia Beach
The Hangar – Olympia pebbly beach is located alongside the hotel complexes in the eastern part of Vodice. With a wonderful view of the town of Vodice and the island of Prvić the beach is rich with sports and fun features and therefore it is visited quite a lot.
Imperial Beach
The Imperial beach is located in a pebbly bay in front of a pine tree wood and is famous for its large water slide and its numerous water sports.
Južna Vala Beach
It is located in the centre of the town with a beautiful view of the island of Krapanj. It is accessible for those with disabilities and nearby there is a place to eat. The beach has a shower, there is no shade and it is concrete and pebbly.
Mala Raduča Beach
In the centre of Primošten, along the town promenade, restaurants and taverns, lies Mala Raduča, a beach which, besides the enjoyment of the sun and sea, also offers an idyllic view of the beautiful Primošten peninsula.
Male Vrulje Beach
Male Vrulje beach is a pebbly lagoon, with a gentle and shallow entrance to the sea. Above the beach there extends a pine tree forest, which provides pleasant shade. . Along the beach there are places to eat and shop, and its special feature is its pool for playing water polo.
Srima Beach
Srima beach is located in the centre of the same-named village, and it flies the Blue Flag. It has been completely adapted for people with disabilities, whilst a lifeguard service watches over the swimmers. There is also a place to eat and drink on the beach.
Vićevica Beach
Vićevica beach is located in the western part of the town and is known for its long pebbly sunbathing area and the shade of the nearby pine trees. A wonderful view of the nearby islands extends from the beach.
Lovetovo Cove
Lovetovo cove on the eastern part of Vodice is famous for its peaceful, pebbly beaches in the shade of tamarisk shrubs.
Velika Raduča Beach
Velika Raduča is a famous Primošten beach located on the northern coast of the peninsula, in a beautiful cove with a view of the turquoise sea and the island of Smokvica. The beach has natural shade and numerous entertainment facilities.
Brodarica Beach
Brodarica beach did not always have such an attractive and modern look. Today it is a modern, landscaped and family beach with all the necessary amenities that with its view and look is attracting an increasing number of visitors and bathers.
Lolić Beach
Lolić beach is a partly sandy, mostly pebble beach. It is the main beach in Pirovac and a holder of a Blue Flag. The beach faces south and is protected by the bay which is why the sea is always calmer and warmer; ideal for small children.
Beaches on the Kornati Islands
The lunar landscapes of the Kornati islands are ideal destinations for "Robinson Crusoe" tourism. Countless bays of hundred of islands which have the protected status of a national park, overwhelm the sailors. The Kornati beaches are a paradise for divers, boaters and anyone who wants to enjoy the solitude. The beaches are, individually, shingle or sandy, shallow and suitable for children.
You may only expect to find museums on the mainland, but two islands in the Šibenik archipelago are also real treasure troves of cultural and historical heritage.
At first glance, Prvić will amaze you with its combination of island peacefulness and Mediterranean tranquillity. This island also hides a real treasure in the charming village of Prvić Luka. Faust Vrančić, better known as the flying man, also lived here. As one of the greatest minds of the Renaissance, the inventor of the parachute, linguist, and scientist, he started to develop ideas for his ingenious inventions on the shores of this very island. This is exactly why visiting the Faust Vrančić Memorial Centre will prove to be a great experience! While you’re at it, pencil in Betina under the must-see section of your itinerary. The charming fishing village on the island of Murter, known for its beautiful beaches, family holidays, and the Love International summer festival taking place in Tisno, writes the most beautiful odes to boats. The Betina Museum of Wooden Shipbuilding showcases a symphony of man and wood and tells a story of the passion of shipbuilders and knowledge passed down through generations.
Amazing cultural heritage of a millennia old city
Following the indented coastline of the Šibenik region, you will witness many beautiful beaches and tourist spots such as Rogoznica, Primošten, or Vodice, and once you spot the St. Anthony Channel and the powerful outline of the St. Nicholas’ Fort under the protection of UNESCO on the horizon, you will know that you are approaching one of the most beautiful Dalmatian towns.
Many say that Šibenik is best discovered from the seaside, as it allows for maximum enjoyment of the elegant views featured in the popular show Game of Thrones.
Still, you don't need to be leaning against the prow of the ship to view the panorama of the town – you can also do it by taking a walk on the unique promenade through the channel of St. Anthony.
This Croatian pearl was first mentioned in 1066 in the Charter of King Petar Krešimir IV, hence its nickname "Krešimir’s town".
The history of Dalmatia written in stone, the streets bustling with life for almost a thousand years, and three forts – Barone, St. John’s Fort, and St. Michael’s Fort, whose summer stage turns every concert into a spectacle, are just the prelude to the most important masterpiece of Šibenik - St. James Cathedral.
Incidentally, if you are there at the right time in summer, those same streets, alleyways and squares become stages for the only International Children’s Festival in the world, for the Evening of Dalmatian Chanson, and for the colourful (Šibenik) Medieval Fair.
St. Jacob’s Cathedral is one of those places that will make you think about the transience of life while you observe the elegant stone dome watching over the town. This building under the protection of UNESCO is the only cathedral in Europe built exclusively of stone, and if you want to find out the secrets of its impressive construction process, be sure to check out the Civitas Sacra – Holy Town interpretation centre.
In addition to its connections to the sea, Šibenik is one of the few cities of the Adriatic whose identity has also been influenced by a river.
Following the course of the green beauty Krka, you will first reach Prokljan Lake, and then, at the estuary, the ancient town of Skradin where ancient Romans moored their galleys. Nearby, you will also find the Croatian Troy – the archaeological site of Bribirska glavica boasting evidence of prehistoric life. In this karst realm, the Krka River raised itself the most magnificent monument. The Krka National Park is a wonderful play of nature where the water skilfully sculpted seven enchanting travertine waterfalls, such as the magnificent Roški Waterfall and the fantastic Skradinski buk with an addictive symphony of millions of water drops falling. People have also done their best to celebrate and respect this noble landscape. St. Archangel’s Monastery and the Visovac Monastery, located on an idyllic islet, fit perfectly into this magical nature. You can choose to absorb every atom of this otherworldly beauty by boat or on Krka Bike or Krka Hike paths.
And when the course of the river turns towards the fairy-tale landscapes of the Dalmatian Zagora, you will witness the land of kings, towering mountains, and mysterious stories opening before you.
Just like a lighthouse by the sea, isolated and proud, Knin stands tall as one of the oldest towns in Europe, its roots dating back to prehistoric times. This capital of Croatian kings lies across seven rivers, is surrounded by nine mountains, and is home to one of the largest medieval forts in Europe. But that is not all that Knin has to offer. In the immediate vicinity of the town, the Krka River springs spectacularly under the Krčić waterfall, and the rocky peaks of the Dinara Nature Park practically touch the sky. The highest peak in Croatia – Dinara – can also be found in this area, and so can an enchanting turquoise lake, the spring of the Cetina River. The silence of the merciless landscape of this mighty mountain hides a true natural spectacle – the Dalmatian hot springs. The most beautiful is Veliko vrilo or the Glavaš spring, which has become world-famous thanks to a plethora of photos on social media. Close to the spring, you will find the oldest Croatian church – the pre-Romanesque Church of the Holy Salvation built in the 9th century, which provides a spiritual note to this area.
What to eat?
Discover and savour the magic of Dalmatian cuisine
It is here that “mišni sir” (cheese matured in a sheepskin bag) which marks the very beginnings of cookery can still be found: milk which is naturally curdled in sheep’s skin made into a bag or wild oysters which man still enjoys today in the same way as a hundred thousand years ago: taking them from the sea, opening and slurping them with a sigh of sweet delight. Simply and precisely prepared grilled fish are offered in the same restaurants where the unique Skradin risotto, the one that is prepared for 12 hours like an alchemist’s ritual, and in which the meat breaks down and turns into a new gastronomic substance.
