08/08/2025
A DIY DAY TRIP TO FROM SPLIT TO ŠIBENIK >>>>> From sea views to stone streets, cathedral domes to Dalmatian pups, here’s how I spent a jam-packed, budget-friendly day out from Split to Šibenik (with an island hop included) 🚌⛪🐾.....
I booked my Ariva Bus tickets 5 days in advance through their app and scored an early bird 50% discount at just €6.20 each way. I took the 9am bus, which was due to arrive at 10:32am, but actually rolled in closer to 11am. There were no delays, so not sure why it was late, but something to keep in mind if on a tight schedule. Fortunately, Šibenik’s bus station is right on the Riva (the main seafront promenade), only a couple of minutes walk into the heart of the old town.
Before I arrived, I’d gotten the Šibenik Card online at www.sibenikcard.hr. For €17, valid for 7 days after first activation, it is excellent value for money, as it gets you free or discounted entry to a bunch of sights, and also 20% off tickets to nearby Krka National Park.
My first stop was the Cathedral of St. James, one of Šibenik’s two UNESCO sites (and also the Iron Bank from GOT). Entry was free with the Šibenik Card, and it’s easy to see why this gem is world heritage-listed.
Next, I headed for brunch at Okus Soli where I enjoyed perfectly poached eggs on homemade brioche with crème fraîche and baby salad, along with a mimosa (because why not?) for a total of €15. Fueled up, I walked back toward the seafront and caught a Jadrolinija passenger ferry (€3.50 each way) to the island of Zlarin. An added bonus: the ferry sails past St. Nicholas Fortress (Šibenik’s other UNESCO site), and although I didn’t have time to visit the fortress this time, it’s firmly on my list for next time.
Once on Zlarin, a beautiful and peaceful island that would make a great day trip in itself or even as an accommodation base, I had about 1.5 hours before the return ferry. I made a beeline for the Red Coral Museum (20% off with the Šibenik Card). The staff were lovely and I sure learnt a lot. Then, after, I visited a coral jewelry shop which had some impressive pieces for sure, but since red is not really my color, I resisted the temptation to add more to my jewelry collection.
Before catching the ferry back, I made a quick stop at the tourist office where a friendly local explained all of the events and activities they have on the island, including some fun island-hopping tips like Krapanj (known for sea sponges) and Prvić (birthplace of the parachute inventor) soooo many more reasons to come back! I then relaxed with a cold beer at a waterfront café. Prices? €3 for a large beer, €2 for a glass of wine. Zlarin, you definitely won me over :)))
Back in Šibenik, I treated myself to a chocolate burek at Serenada for €3 (never even knew that was a thing!) and headed to one of the places I was most excited about: The House of Dalmatian Dog. Entry is 25% off with the Šibenik Card, and I was welcomed by Tino and Dalma, the cutest 4-month-old Dalmatian siblings. This brand new museum offers a short movie intro, fun interactive exhibits, a bit of doggy history, and of course, lots of puppy cuddles. The small gift shop is also worth a browse, especially if you are after something a little different, with Dalmatian-themed souvenirs that go beyond the usual fridge magnets. I’d say especially if you have kids or are a dog lover (as I am), it’s a must-visit.
Next was St. Michael’s Fortress, free with the Šibenik Card, and the most easily accessible of Šibenik’s four fortresses. Although be prepared for stairs in Šibenik, there are a lot of them. The panoramic views over the city and sea were definitely worth every step. They also host concerts up there. What a venue, and I’ll for sure be keeping my eye on the upcoming events.
Just below is the St. Anne cemetery, which I took a wander through. Truly one of the most beautiful I’ve seen (not that I make a habit of visiting cemeteries lol), and nearby is the St. Lawrence Monastery Garden. The garden itself was small and nice, but I’d heard some negative buzz about the café (rude staff with long waits and where, unless you purchase something, there is a €1 fee to enter). Unfortunately, it rang at least partly true in my case, and after waiting about 20 minutes with only 3 tables occupied and still no service, I gave up and left. But hey, I saved myself a euro, so I guess there's that lol.
With still plenty more to see, I visited the Šibenik City Museum and the Civitas Sacra Interpretive Centre, both included with the Šibenik Card. Then I strolled along the seaside promenade for 15–20 minutes to reach Banj Beach. That walk alone, with postcard views of the old town (photos cannot do it proper justice), is reason enough to go. I wish I had time for a swim, but alas, it was almost time to head back.
On the way to the bus station, I grabbed a quick bite at The Fry Guy, some delicious girice (fried small fish) for €6, plus a glass of wine for €2. If you have more time though, and want a proper sit down dinner, I can recommend Argola where I dined on my only other visit to Šibenik, after a day at Krka National Park.
Then, all too quickly, it was time to board my 7pm bus back to Split, full of fresh sea air, history, and ideas for my next trip to Šibenik. Because honestly, one day just isn’t enough.
NOTE: If you plan on following my itinerary, it was very fast-paced indeed, so I’d suggest either taking an earlier bus there and/or a later bus back, dropping something (although I couldn’t say what because I enjoyed it all), or best of all - stay a while! 😉
