1. VISIT UNESCO HERITAGE
Šibenik has two UNESCO-protected monuments; St James cathedral and St Nicholas fortress.
St James cathedral is situated in the heart of the city and represents one of Croatia's most significant and beautiful architectural achievements. It was built over more than a hundred years, during the 15th and 16th centuries.
The three architects who succeeded one another in the construction of the Cathedral - Francesco di Giacomo, Georgius Mathei Dalmaticus, and Niccolò di Giovanni Fiorentino - developed a structure built entirely from stone and using unique construction techniques for the vaulting and the dome of the Cathedral. The form and the decorative elements of the Cathedral, such as a remarkable frieze decorated with 71 sculptured faces of men, women, and children, also illustrate the successful fusion of Gothic and Renaissance art.
St Nicholas fortress was built in the 16th century to defend Šibenik against the Ottoman Empire. It was built in the Renaissance style. Today it is considered to be, not only a great military fort but also a masterpiece of urban architecture. That's why the fortress was added to the UNESCO protected heritage list as a part of Venetian's work of defense between the 15th and 17th centuries. It was built by Venice which at that time ruled Šibenik and Dalmatia.
2. VISIT THE FORTRESSES
Besides the St Nicolas fortress which is situated at the sea, there are three land fortresses in Šibenik; St Michael’s, Barone Fortress, and St John’s Fortress. Three fortresses have been completely renovated and modernized. Digital content implemented on site is combined with history as well as stunning views.
St Michael’s is the oldest and first renovated fortress. It was built in the 11th century during King Krešimir’s reign and today it is most famous as an open-air stage, while within the fortress, you can learn fascinating history via 3D technology.
Barone and St John’s fortress were built in the 17th century to repel the attacks of the Ottomans. Today, at Barone fortress you can enjoy the stunning views over the city while having coffee and taking a virtual history tour through augmented reality.
St John’s is the highest, largest, and last renovated fortress. It extends over 18000 square meters and is divided into two parts; the upper, southern part is called the star, while the northern is referred to as the pliers. A modernly equipped educational campus is situated below the pliers.
3. WALK THE STREETS DURING INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL
The festival was first held in 1958. and soon became a major international festival. It is held in June, and it’s the time when all the squares and streets of Šibenik liven up and this city is completely reigned by children from different parts of the world. During the two-week festival, the youngest audience, their parents, and grandparents enjoy theatre performances and workshops with over 500 participants, as well as a film and music program.
4. ENJOY CONCERTS AT ST MICHAEL’S FORTRESS
You don’t want to miss the opportunity to enjoy a concert at a such unique location. The open-air stage at St Michael’s Fortress with 1077 seats is often referred to as the most beautiful in Croatia!
Many renowned Croatian performers and worldwide music stars performed since its opening in 2014.; Bryan Ferry, LP, Róisín Murphy, Mario Biondi, Gregory Porter, Gus Gus, Stereo MC's, Laibach, Morcheeba, The National, Nouvelle Vague, Thievery Corporation...
5. TAKE A WALK ALONG THE PROMENADE IN THE ST ANTHONY'S CHANNEL
It is about 4.4 kilometers long and designed in the natural harmony of the protected area. It is suitable for family-friendly walks and sightseeing, organized groups of tourists, recreational running, picnics, and cycling.
It takes about two hours to walk along the whole promenade, which proves to be a great experience accompanied by the opportunity to enjoy awe-inspiring panoramic views of Šibenik and the Šibenik archipelago from several locations.
6. TAKE A SWIM AT BANJ BEACH
Banj is a Šibenik city beach with a unique view at the St. James Cathedral, St. Michael’s fortress, and the old town. You can reach the beach from the center of the city in a ten-minute walk on the waterside promenade.
This beautiful pebble beach with numerous facilities, such as an outdoor exercise ground, is ideal for families with children as well as for all sports lovers. Also, you will probably notice the color of the sea is not as clear as on the other beaches in Croatia. That is because the sea is mixed with the Krka river here.
7. TAKE A SELFIE AT JADRIJA BEACH
Famous for colorful changing cabins, Jadrija is a favorite summer destination for many locals and tourists. Even surfers enjoy it here! Also, you cannot come to Jadrija and not try the famous donuts by Ruši, the best ones in Šibenik!
8. VISIT AZIMUT
Situated inside now-dry wells, built in 1453, Azimut is a place where urban culture found its home. Here you can enjoy concerts, exhibitions, pub quizzes, poetry nights, and many more events that take place during the whole year. During summer, visitors enjoy hanging out on the shaded terrace just below St. James Cathedral, and in winter time Azimut becomes the city’s cozy living room.
9. HANG OUT ON THE STAIRS BELOW THE CATHEDRAL
If you visit Šibenik during summer, this is the most local experience you can get. The stairs below St James Cathedral on weekend nights are filled with young people chilling, hanging out, and sipping drinks.
10. EAT IN MICHELIN-STAR RESTAURANT
Located in the heart of the historic city Šibenik, it’s considered one of Croatia’s most attractive gourmet hotspots. Here, owner and top chef Rudolf Štefan treats your taste buds to unparalleled contemporary cuisine with local flavors. The restaurant also has a beautiful terrace where you can wine and dine with a stunning view of the Cathedral of St James.
