Where to Stay in Sibenik – best hotels and accommodation in Sibenik

Tucked away on the stunning Dalmatian Coast, Sibenik offers a refreshing break from the typical tourist hotspots and it offers a vibrant and authentic Croatian experience.

Sibenik is a place where you can truly slow down and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings, while still having plenty to explore and experience, from impressive fortresses and medieval architecture to breathtaking national parks that surround it.

In this guide, I break down the different areas in Sibenik and provide a curated selection of the best accommodation options. This will help you find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Sibenik, regardless of your budget or travel style.

This guide to accommodation in Sibenik will walk you through:

1. A geographical breakdown of the best areas to stay in and near Sibenik
2. All the info you need to make an informed decision on the best area for you
3. A selection of the best accommodation options for each area, budget, and type of accommodation

What you need to know before choosing your Sibenik accommodation

Think about accessibility

When choosing your lodging, be sure to consider the accessibility of the building as well as the room inside the building.

The old city center is pedestrian-only, so be prepared to carry your bags over cobblestone streets and conquer the many stone stairways, Sibenik is built up a hill after all. And while the city’s charming Old Town and medieval buildings offer a unique and enchanting atmosphere, they often come with narrow staircases and no elevators. This can make it challenging for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage.

Check for parking

The historic city center of Šibenik is closed for traffic, so parking directly in front of your accommodation is not possible. However, some hotels and apartments provide off-site parking options for their guests, and there is a road along the waterfront that allows for access to some accommodations.

Public parking lots can be found outside the Old Town and on the waterfront.

How many days in Sibenik

While the old town of Sibenik can be combed through in just a few hours, 2 days are the perfect amount of time to spend in Sibenik. By spending at least one night in Sibenik you’ll be able to visit also the forts and Krka National Park, as well as experience the culinary delights of this city. If you want to also visit Kornati National Park, I’d recommend an additional day.

Where to stay in Sibenik – best areas

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas to stay in Sibenik:

• Sibenik Old Town is the historic center of Sibenik and is predominately a pedestrian only area full of stairs. You’ll be very close to all the sights but might struggle with parking and carrying your bags across cobblestone streets.
• Crnica is the area North of the city center next to Bonj beach. It is within short walking distance from the main square and here you’ll be able to drive up to your accommodation and even find parking.
• Plisac is the area South of the city center and is perfect if you’re coming by bus or ferry.
• Mandalina is the little peninsula across from Plisac. It’s a bit of a walk but you get beautiful views and parking is a nonissue here.
• Subicevac and Meterize are located up the hill from the old town. While only a short walk, expect it to be a steep one.
• Solaris is a popular holiday destination about a 10 min drive from the old town and it’s home to some of the nicest beaches in the area as well as Croatia’s first themed aquapark.

Refer to this map of Sibenik attractions to find the best area for you considering the sights you want to see.

Best accommodation in Sibenik – best hotels and holiday homes

Here’s an in-depth guide to the best accommodation options for each area of Sibenik. I’ll give you options for every budget and accommodation type.

The best accommodation in Sibenik Old Town

Best for: first time stays, those who travel light

The Old City Center of Sibenik is a historical gem and home to the stunning St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other historical landmarks that will take your breath away. By choosing to stay here, you will be at the heart of all the action, with main attractions, shops, and restaurants just a few steps away.

However, staying in the pedestrian-only zone does come with some practical considerations. Parking can be a bit of a challenge, and carrying your luggage on the cobblestone streets can be difficult, as there are many stairs leading to the accommodations.

Where to stay in Sibenik Old Town

Upper end | Armerun Heritage Hotel

Upper end | King Kresimir Heritage Hotel

Mid range | Fenice Palace

Mid range | Buzza Apartments

Budget | House Poletti

The best accommodation near Sibenik Old Town

Best for: first time stays, those traveling by car

Crnica and Plisac are both within short walking distance from the city center and they both come with a range of benefits that make them great choices for your stay during your visit to Sibenik.

Let’s start with Crnica. This neighborhood is located north of the city center and is situated right next to Bonj beach. This means that you’ll have easy access to one of the most panoramic beaches in Sibenik, and to the historic sights.

Moving on to Plisac, this neighborhood is located south of the city center and is a great choice if you’re arriving by bus or ferry. The area is conveniently located near the bus and ferry terminals, so you won’t have to worry about getting lost or hauling your luggage too far.

Both are great options and if you’re driving to Sibenik, you’ll appreciate the convenience of being able to park near your lodgings. Plus, you won’t have to drag your bags ups century-old stairs. From Crnica and Plisac you can easily walk to the city center and visit St. James Cathedral or the medieval fortress of St. Michael.

Just keep in mind that you’ll mostly find private accommodation options here and they often come with a 2 or 3 night minimum stay.

Best accommodation in Crnica

Upper end | Villa Pergola

Mid range | Apartments Val

Mid range | Dvori svetog Mihaela

Budget | Apartman Kale

Best accommodation in Plisac

Upper end | Bellevue Superior City Hotel

Mid range | Maja Apartment

Mid range | Bacrizza Gallery Apartment

Budget | Hostel Globo

The best accommodation in Mandalina

Best for: a quiet escape, sea lovers, groups of friends or families

Mandalina is the little peninsula across from Plisac and is best known for its picturesque marina. There are some fancy accommodations in the area and you’ll get breathtaking views over Sibenik town. Keep in mind it is a bit of a walk to get to town from here but at least parking is a nonissue here. This area offers some of the best holiday homes in Sibenik suitable for bigger groups or families.

Best accommodation in Mandalina

Upper end | D-Resort Šibenik

Mid range | Four-Bedroom Holiday Home

Mid range | Peninsula divina

Budget | Torkul

The best accommodation above Sibenik Old Town

Best for: first time stays, budget travel

Subicevac and Meterize are located up the hill from Sibenik old town. While only a short walk, expect it to be a steep one. You’ll have easy access to the forts and accommodation here is more accessible by car than in town and there’s parking for those of you who are traveling by car. And did I mention the views?

Best accommodation in Subicevac and Meterize

Upper end | Porto Sereno apartments

Mid range | Apartment Batinica

Mid range | Apartment Ena

Budget | Adriatic Suites

The best accommodation on the Beach

Best for: beach bums, families with young kids

Just 10 minutes drive from town, the Solaris resort is situated on a beautiful white sandy beach and offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and campsites. There are even some private apartments on offer in the area.

Staying in Solaris can be a great option for those who want to combine a beach vacation with exploring the historical and cultural attractions of the city. The beach is a long stretch of soft white sand that gently slopes into the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, making it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Here you’ll also find Aquapark Dalmatia, Croatia’s first themed park with over 8,000 square meters of water-filled fun.

Best accommodation in Solaris

Upper end | Amadria Park Kids Hotel Andrija

Mid range | Amadria Park Beach Hotel Jakov

Mid range | Amadria Park Ivan

Budget | Apartman Ivana

Getting to Sibenik and around

The closest airport to Sibenik is Split airport, which is about an hour’s drive away. While Zadar Airport is a little bit further, the journey time to Sibenik is roughly the same. My recommendation would be to rent a car or book a private transfer for a hassle-free journey.

Sibenik also has a well-connected central bus station, making it easy to get around by bus. If you can’t find a direct bus to Sibenik, just take a bus to Split or Zadar and then transfer to a bus headed to Sibenik.

Shuttle from airport & main towns

Where to eat and drink in Sibenik

The bar and restaurant scene is top-notch and you’ll be able to sample local cuisine and drinks to your heart’s content. Sibenik has a great selection of restaurants and bars, and even the ones with incredible locations are still priced reasonably. My tummy and I had a great time here!

Bronzin on the waterfront offers delicious seafood and traditional dalmatian dishes with a twist.

Pelegrini just off the main square takes the crown for fine dining in Sibenik with its rustic setting and a Michelin star.

Pa’Kai serves delicious and healthy fusion dishes inspired by Eastern and Pacific cuisine.

Bistro Bava is chick, modern and lively. A popular venue for dinner and evening drinks, Bava serves a little bit of everything, but somehow manages to make everything taste amazing.

Pluto’s Burger Bar keeps it as simple as it gets and does one thing, but makes it to perfection.

NaMaLo is a hip bar in the old town that serves delicious coffee and homemade juices in the morning, and turns into a lively gathering place boosting an incredible wine list and grazing platters in the evening.

Jack Rabbit Slim’s really caught my attention while walking through the old town. The setting is stunning, the decor is fun, and the cocktails are not just plentiful but also made to perfection.

Is Sibenik worth visiting?

In all honesty, unless you’re a die-hard GOT fan or really enjoy a more quiet and local experience, you’ll be fine skipping Sibenik. Don’t get me wrong, Sibenik is a nice town and there’s plenty to see here, but it just can’t compare to the likes of Trogir, Zadar, Split, Dubrovnik or Hvar. It’s not as well maintained and it does not have that nice pedestrian-only waterfront I’ve come to expect from coastal towns in Croatia.

That being said, Sibenik is surrounded by gorgeous national parks and picture-perfect island towns and can be a great base to do day trips from.

If you’re on a time crunch I’d prioritize the more iconic destinations over Sibenik, as long as you still make room for Krka National Park. But would still highly advise you to stop in Sibenik for a few hours if you’re on a road trip and passing through. The main square and cathedral are stunning, and St. Nicholas Fortress is one of a kind.

Best time to visit Sibenik

Late spring or early autumn when the weather is sunny and the temperatures are pleasantly warm is the best time to visit Sibenik.

As a rule of thumb, I would advise you to avoid Croatia in the peak of summer (July & August). It just gets too hot, too crowded, and too expensive. However, Sibenik isn’t as touristic as some of the main towns and islands and you’ll probably be fine in terms of crowds and getting a nice place to stay. But keep in mind that summer can get scorching hot so make sure you’re up for it.

Planning a trip to Croatia?

Croatia is a stunning country with countless gorgeous islands, charming roman towns, beautiful nature and delicious food. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of Croatia travel guides. And for an easy plug & play solution make sure to check out my Croatia itinerary (coming soon).