7-day itinerary from Sibenik

Is Šibenik worth visiting? 

The answer is simple: yes! Šibenik - The center of the region thanks to its strategic location on the Dalmatian coast. It boasts some of the most relevant historical buildings of Croatia, such as the Cathedral of St. Jacob and the sea fortress of St. Nicholas - both nominated UNESCO World Heritage Sites - as well as the four medieval fortresses with beautiful views of the sea. In terms of nature, it includes more than 150 uncontaminated islands, two national parks, the beautiful waterfalls of the river Krka on the mainland, and last but not least the beautiful Kornati archipelago on the sea. Šibenik offers countless vacation opportunities and a glimpse into the beautiful history of the region, allowing sailors to experience many places shortly. 

Whether you prefer a relaxing or adventurous sailing vacation - Šibenik is an oasis for all sailors. Nautical routes lead to the islands of Prvić, Zlarin, Tijat, Zmajan, Kaprije, Kakan, Žirje, Murter, and Kornati. The destinations are close to each other and offer a pleasant and comfortable sailing experience. Today we set sail for an unforgettable journey to the hidden islands and bays of Šibenik and the beauty of Kornati National Park. 

Day 1: ŠIBENIK - ZLARIN

After leaving Šibenik, you will quickly reach the island of Zlarin - a small island full of beautiful nature, as well as historical and cultural treasures.

Curiosities 

Zlarin is also called the Golden Island for its unspoiled beauty. Pay a visit to the churches with golden decorated altars, adorned with coral branches, traditionally laid down by sailors as a sign of devotion. The island is also known for its red coral harvesting culture: in summer, you can witness a traditional ceremony that is held for sailors that go to sea at night, where people are beautifully dressed in folk clothes and dance all night long. 

Best beach in Zlarin to visit by boat

Beach at Zlarin Island: located on the southwest coast. A beautiful bay with turquoise waters and a sacred silence for absolute relaxation.  

.

Day 2: ZLARIN - KORNATI ARCHIPELAGO 

We reach a real nautical paradise - the Kornati National Park, a territory that includes 89 uninhabited islands and reefs over a surface of 300 km². Tranquility and wilderness are the main characteristics of this park, which hosts very few residents and many secret beaches to discover. Having your private boat allows you to explore the islands and islets in any order you wish, but we strongly suggest visiting Kornati, Zut, and Telascica Natural Park on Dugi Otok for the best island experience! 

Curiosities

Not only nature is the main character of the Kornati archipelago, but also food is equally relevant. We suggest trying one of the many konoba (tavern) with beautiful views scattered around the islands, which offer an incredible culinary experience. Specialties made from local, fresh and delicious ingredients as well as exquisite wines are waiting to be tasted.

Best bays in Kornati Islands

Opat Bay: located on the southeast coast of the homonym island of Kornat, also hosting a small docking area and delicious restaurants where you can try the real taste of Dalmatia 

Telascica Nature Park: this is one of the few places in the world where you can find a lake on an island. In addition, the beautiful natural bay in Telascica offers great shelter from all winds, so it's perfect for enjoying absolute peace in security.  

.

Day 3: KORNATI ARCHIPELAGO - MURTER 

From the Kornati Islands to Murter, you can enjoy the cruise around the numerous islands and islets of the archipelago. The island of Murter is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so it's also accessible by car. There are four villages on the island - Murter, Jezera, Betina, and Tisno - all of which offer safe moorings for your yacht. The coastline is full of coves and beaches - the most beautiful on the south side of the island well protected from the bora. 

Curiosities 

Murter has a very ancient as well as a medieval past, and this amazing history is proved by the numerous historical buildings you can find around the villages. The island had different roles throughout the time, as it was used as a touristic resort during the Roman Empire, and as a defensive fortress during the reign of the Venetian Republic.

Best bays in Murten Island 

Kosirina Beach: located near Betina, it's a beautiful bay with crystal clear waters surrounded by pines. The rocky coasts are great for snorkeling and the idyllic atmosphere makes it perfect for relaxing even during the high season

.

Day 4: MURTER - PRVIĆ

The island of Prvić is the closest island to the coast and counts around 400 inhabitants. It is one of the most densely populated islands of the Adriatic Sea and, except for a fire truck, no car can be found here. The entire island is a cultural heritage and is thus under the protection of the Croatian Ministry of Culture. The two charming villages - Prvić Luka and Šepurine - are full of history and culture: in Prvić Luka you can visit the memorial center of the inventor Faust Vrančić - the first flying man with a functioning parachute, while in Šepurine you can visit the Vrancic Mansion, owned by the nobles that built the towns of Prvić and by Faust Vrančić himself. 

Curiosities 

Prvić is actually a natural continuation of the island Zlarin, as indicated by numerous undersea shallows, the reef Raženik and islet Lupac.

Best bay in Prvić

Trstevica beach: located near Šepurine, it's a calm bay protected by winds. Here you can enjoy a day of relaxation and practice some snorkeling along the cliffs. 

.

Day 5: PRVIĆ - SKRADIN (Krka Waterfalls)

At the entrance to Krka National Park lies the town of Skradin with its irresistible charm. You can easily reach it after passing through the Šibenik channel, and then you can get back on the boat to venture into the park and explore the most famous waterfall of the area - Skradinski Buk. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and amazing trails, so if you fancy hiking in the park, this is a great starting point. 

In Skradin you can visit many historical buildings, as well as enjoy excellent gastronomic plates and Dalmatian wines. 

Curiosities

The amazing Krka National Park has so much to offer. The park was specifically created to protect this area, which is rich in biodiversity, and includes many other smaller waterfalls. It's the second most visited natural park in Croatia and to limit the visits the government introduced a ticket system, which is also available online. The park is also rich in history, as many historical remains can be found within its boundaries: we mention the Visovac monastery and the numerous fortresses that date back to the Roman Empire.

.

Day 6: SKRADIN - ŠIBENIK

We finally set sail to Šibenik, a beautiful old town with a lot to discover. The town itself is situated at the mouth of the river Krka, protected from the sea by the passage of St. Anthony. Founded by the Croats, it was once the seat of King Petar Krešimir IV and has a history that dates back to the 11th century: stroll through the beautifully preserved old town with its magnificent architecture from the 15th and 16th centuries, and visit the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the old town hall, famous for its beautiful large columns, arches, and balustrade, built by the famous architect Michele Sanmicheli. 

Šibenik, surrounded by four fortresses, was one of the best-protected cities in Europe in the 16th century:

The St. John's Fortress - the highest fortress in the city - is located on a hill about 115 meters above the city center.

The Barone Fortress offers a breathtaking view of the city and the Adriatic Sea. Named the "Best Cultural Attraction in Croatia" in 2016, the fortress served as a defensive site for Šibenik for centuries. Today it is a venue for meetings, conferences, and other events - whether for business or enjoyment. The newly renovated fortress now offers, in addition to its historical elements, a modern outdoor area with a magnificent view of the city and the sea. The indoor area offers guests delicious and authentic Mediterranean cuisine. 

The fortress of St. Michael - another of the four fortresses in Šibenik - is the origin of the city. Built during the Middle Ages, it is located on a hill in the middle of the old town with a fantastic panoramic view of the town and the Adriatic Sea. The open-air stage hosts concerts and other events throughout the year. Combine your visit with a show for a unique experience!

Built during the 16th century, the fortress of St. Nicholas was intended to defend the port of Šibenik against Turkish attacks by sea. It is one of three fortresses of this kind that exist in the Mediterranean - the others are located near Venice and Malta. Take a walk to one of the fortresses while the sun sets and enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding islands - a dream!

The scenery seems familiar to you? Fans of Game of Thrones will be pleased as the town served as a filming location for three episodes in Season 5.

Curiosities 

Šibenik is becoming a top destination for sailors, gastronomes, and culture lovers. As the first mega marina in Croatia, the marina Mandalina with the charter fleet of NCP & Mare offers excellent facilities and services for private boats and charter clients. Unique accommodation is offered by the historic boutique hotels in the old town of Šibenik. 

The Michelin-starred restaurant "Pelegrini", voted the best in Croatia for several years, is located right next to St. James Cathedral. Thanks to the variety of music festivals and concerts that often take place in the open-air theater of St. Michael's Fortress,  Šibenik is becoming a music "mecca". Numerous music legends have performed here, such as Bryan Ferry.