1. St. James Cathedral

This UNESCO World Heritage site is the crown jewel of Šibenik, famous for being built entirely of stone and adorned with 71 sculpted faces representing citizens from the 15th century. Insider Tip: Visit between 10-11am when light streams through the rose window creating a stunning effect on the baptistery. Look for the small lion sculpture on the north side exterior—touch its shiny nose for good luck as locals have done for centuries.

2. St. Michael’s Fortress

Perched above the old town, this medieval fortress offers spectacular views and hosts summer concerts in its open-air theater. Insider Tip: Purchase the “Fortress Pass” which includes all four city fortresses for significant savings. Come 2-3 hours before sunset to explore fully, then stay as lights begin illuminating the city below—guards usually allow visitors to linger a bit past official closing time for sunset photos.

3. St. Nicholas Fortress

Located at the entrance to St. Anthony’s Channel, this impressive sea fortress is another UNESCO-protected site only accessible by boat. Insider Tip: Book the small boat tour that includes fortress entry through local agency “Pelegrini Travel” rather than larger tour operators. The morning departures often include a swim stop at nearby Jadrija Beach that afternoon tours skip.

4. Medieval Mediterranean Garden of St. Lawrence Monastery

A peaceful oasis featuring herbs and medicinal plants used since medieval times. Insider Tip: The unassuming entrance is easy to miss—look for a small wooden door on the narrow street behind the monastery. Purchase a small bundle of dried lavender at the exit; it’s grown on-site and supports the garden’s preservation.

5. Šibenik City Museum

Located in the former Prince’s Palace, this museum houses artifacts spanning the city’s history. Insider Tip: Ask the curator about the secret room on the top floor that contains recently discovered documents from the Venetian period. It’s not part of the regular exhibition but staff often show it to genuinely interested visitors.

6. St. John’s Fortress

The highest of Šibenik’s four fortresses, offering panoramic views across the entire region. Insider Tip: Take the less-used western approach path through the neighborhood of Gorica—it’s a gentler climb than the main tourist route and passes by authentic local homes with beautiful gardens. Bring a small flashlight to explore unlit corridors rarely visited by other tourists.

7. Barone Fortress

Recently renovated with augmented reality technology that shows how the fortress defended against Ottoman attacks. Insider Tip: Download the Barone AR app before your visit to fully experience the technology. The small café at the fortress serves excellent local wine from small producers not available in stores—try the Babić variety from nearby Primošten.

8. Dalmatian Ethno Village

A recreation of traditional life in the Dalmatian hinterland just outside the city. Insider Tip: Visit on Thursday afternoons when local women demonstrate traditional weaving techniques. The seemingly simple gift shop contains some of the region’s most authentic handicrafts—the olive wood products come from a family workshop that has operated for six generations.

9. St. Anthony’s Channel

A natural sea channel with walking and biking paths offering beautiful views of the city and archipelago. Insider Tip: Rent a bike from the shop near the channel entrance and ride the full 4.4km path. About halfway along, there’s an unmarked trail leading to a small pebble beach where locals swim—it’s almost never crowded even in peak season.

10. Four Wells Square

A picturesque square featuring cisterns built to supply water during Turkish sieges. Insider Tip: The wells themselves are interesting, but the real secret is the small tavern “Konoba Gorica” hidden in an alley just off the square. It has no English menu, but their daily fish special is always caught that morning by the owner’s brother—simply point at what others are eating.