What to see in Šibenik

Šibenik is a special town. It has a rich history, and how could it not, when it comes to the oldest native town on the Adriatic. Šibenik is therefore the oldest native Croatian town on the Adriatic. It is the main cultural, educational, administrative and economic centre of Šibenik-Knin County. There are plenty of reasons to visit Šibenik, but that is by no means all this town has to offer.

Beaches in Šibenik

A little about the history of Šibenik

Šibenik is first mentioned at Christmas 1066 in a charter of King Petar Krešimir IV. For this reason it is often also called Krešimir’s town. It is worth mentioning that until the plague epidemic in the middle of the 17th century, Šibenik was the largest town on the entire eastern Adriatic coast. It was de facto the capital of Croatia from December 1944 to May 1945.

Šibenik played a significant role during the founding of the Croatian Navy.

Today’s Šibenik is adorned by the Cathedral of St James, which is the most significant architectural achievement in the town from that period. The cathedral was built in the 15th and 16th centuries, and because of its great historical and cultural importance it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000.

Because of the details already mentioned, we can say that Šibenik stands out among Croatian towns. Today this town captivates with its beauty and its historical and cultural heritage. Few towns can boast so many interesting details from the past and preserved buildings that have stood for centuries.

If we talk about buildings that stand out and dominate the urban area, we must certainly mention the Renaissance Fortress of St Nicholas, and the fortresses of St Michael, St John and Šubićevac.

To end the historical story of Šibenik, we should note that Faust Vrančić was born in Šibenik. This scientist and visionary, lexicographer and storyteller, philosopher and theologian, is the most important Croatian Renaissance figure. Faust Vrančić is the author of the first Croatian dictionary, and also of the famous book of projects and inventions Machinae novae (New Machines). Today he is perhaps best known for the drawing homo volans (the flying man), which is considered the first printed depiction of a parachute jump in history.

Geographical location favours tourism

Šibenik is surrounded by a very indented coastline. It is situated at the mouth of the Krka river and is the central town of central Dalmatia. It lies halfway between Zadar and Split.

Besides the indented coastline, this town is favoured by a developed archipelago, filled with numerous islands, small islets, coves and, of course, clean sea.

Today’s Šibenik we describe as a town full of Dalmatian spirit, songs and wine. This town has kept old values and cherishes its history. It is a destination that many visit, admiring the wealth of this town.

Near Šibenik there are two national parks, Krka and Kornati, and the south-eastern (smaller) part of the Vransko Lake Nature Park. All of these are additional reasons to come to Šibenik and spend unforgettable days of your holiday.

Tourism in Šibenik

Šibenik is certainly one of the most desirable towns on our coast. Its rich historical and cultural heritage, indented coastline and proximity to several nature parks favour tourism in this town in every respect.

Whoever comes to Dalmatia, somewhere near Šibenik, should also visit this old Croatian town. Besides swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the town’s cafés and restaurants, Šibenik offers its guests buildings that are several hundred years old. One of them is located in the very centre of town – the Šibenik Theatre. It was built in 1870 in response to an initiative by the town’s residents at that time.

It is worth mentioning that this is the only theatre building in all of Croatia whose construction was financed by its users – the citizens themselves. Today this building is the oldest theatre building in Croatia. It is still in use, and for almost 50 years in a row it has hosted the International Children’s Festival. The festival is held every year and is one of the more important events in this town.

If you have come as a tourist and like to explore the old details of our towns, the medieval Mediterranean Monastery Garden will certainly catch your attention. It is located within the Franciscan Monastery of St Lawrence. The garden is highly educational in character and serves that purpose. Namely, it is a place where you can get to know all the Mediterranean plants, labelled with their Croatian and original Latin names.

When you want a break and a seat in the shade, we suggest you visit one of the town’s cafés. If you are looking for a tasty bite, be sure to choose one of the restaurants in town. Fish specialities will delight you.

True gourmets will recognise the quality of Šibenik’s teće and the aromas from the grill. Teće is the traditional covered iron baking dish in which the best Dalmatian dishes are cooked, spreading their aromas through the whole restaurant. Your appetite will certainly be stirred by the rich aromas of buzara with crayfish or shellfish, brudet, or vegetable stew. If that is not to your taste, we recommend risotto with meat or seafood, or perhaps a bean stew, a fish soup or chard with fish on the grill.

Culinary delights do not end there. If you crave fish on the grill, spit-roasted meat or fish under the peka lid, your wish will be fulfilled in any restaurant. Tasty dishes of crayfish, shellfish, pork or lamb are prepared every day, with small details with which the kitchen has adapted to the Šibenik area.

Historical research indicates that these same dishes were prepared more than 8000 years ago.

Gastronomic customs and the richness of flavours and aromas have significantly influenced the development of tourism. Guests will always recognise the quality of the cuisine, remember the flavours and gladly return whenever they have the chance.

In recent years Šibenik has recorded a considerable rise in the number of guests, most of whom stay in hotels, followed by private accommodation and campsites. Apartment offer in Šibenik is satisfactory, although each season shows a need for additional beds. If you have decided to come to Šibenik, we recommend that you check the offer in good time and book in advance.