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Shouldering the azure waters of the Adriatic, Šibenik is a charming metropolis of stone buildings, rock cliffs and cobbled streets. As the oldest inhabited city in Croatia and the only one to be home to two UNESCO heritage sites, this idyllic setting is a historic paradise.
Although there is certainly never a bad time to visit the area, some periods of the year might be a better fit for you depending on your interests.
If you’re craving a sun-soaked getaway on Šibenik beaches, you’ll want to strike while the weather’s hot during the summer months. That way you can laze on the sand and swim in the water in the most pleasant conditions.
However, if you’re wanting to catch Šibenik in a completely different light to most tourists, head over during the winter months. Whether you’re partial to the idea of hitting the ski slopes or simply wanting to enjoy the city at its quietest, the colder months are a magical time to visit.
So, if you’re tempted to swing by this idyllic metropolis, check out the information below on the best time to visit Šibenik, Croatia.
As the coldest month of the year in Šibenik, January is not a popular time for tourists to visit. Temperatures average around 7.6°C, with highs hovering at 12°C. So, those going during this period should definitely be packing their winter coats.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom! You won’t have to deal with the same amount of tourists that you would over the summer months. You will be able to enjoy the city’s most sought-after tourist attractions such as the incredible Cathedral of St James in utmost tranquillity.
While snow is common in Šibenik in January, February tends to see the largest amount of it. With the mountains wrapped up with their thickest snow blankets, this month is the best time to go skiing in Croatia.
Temperatures tend to be a smidge higher in February; just a degree or two warmer than in January so don’t be laying your winter woollies to rest just yet! Again, the tourist season won’t have picked up yet so you’ll be able to visit the most popular sites at their calmest and quietest.
Now onto the Spring months. Temperatures rise to more pleasant figures, usually sitting around 9°C-14°C. As the temperatures are a bit more pleasant, you might feel inclined to start making the most of the outdoor attractions in the city. This is a great time to set off and explore the city’s gorgeous shoreline by boat.
This is also a wonderful month to hit up Šibenik fortress. In fact, visiting St Michael’s Fortress is one of the best things to do in Šibenik as it treats you to awe-inspiring views over the city and its gorgeous shoreline.
The weather in Šibenik in April isn’t overly different to March, with temperatures averaging at 15°C. This is still a relatively quiet time to visit the city so you won’t need to worry too much about having to deal with queues or crowds.
Meander around the winding streets of Šibenik’s old town, investigating all of the fabulous shops, cafes and restaurants without having to deal with the hubbub of fellow tourists. Instead, you’ll be able to blend in with the seasoned locals.
Getting into the summer months now. As temperatures start to rise in May, so do the number of visitors as the tourist season starts to pick up. Prepare to be treated to warmer temperatures with highs of 21°C and lows of 17°C.
However, the price of hotels and flights also tend to be a touch higher, so you’ll want to be organised and book in advance. May is a fantastic month to go to Krka National Park as the pleasant heat makes perfect conditions for exploring the cascading waterfalls and verdant vegetation.
The weather in Šibenik is also lovely in June, with temperatures around between 22°C and 26°C. Not too hot but blissfully warm, you’ll be able to catch a tan without feeling scorched
An annual celebration, the International Children’s Festival is an exciting time when child-friendly events take over the city.
One of the highlights of the event is the theatre plays on the festival’s summer stage near Šibenik Cathedral. Catching one of these performances is the perfect thing to do in Croatia with kids.
July is an extremely popular time to visit the city as people flock over to catch the hottest weather in Šibenik. Along with being hotter, this month sees the longest sunshine hours, allowing you to make the most of the city’s outdoor attractions for longer.
Starting from July, the Klapske Veceri takes place every Thursday until mid-September. Traditional Dalmatian Acapella choirs take the old city by storm, performing in the wondrous surroundings of the city’s square.
An enchanting experience, it’s certainly hard to beat listening to the dulcet tones of talented singers in the magical setting of the square’s historic houses and July evening heat.
Boasting the hottest temperatures, August is the best time to visit Šibenik if you’re seeking sunshine and heat. This is also a fabulous time to hit the beach in Šibenik as it is prime tanning weather and a wonderful temperature for swimming in the turquoise waters.
However, the best thing to do in Šibenik in August is catch a show at St Michael’s Fortress. There are few experiences more magical than standing by this stunning fortification and listening as wonderful music fills the air amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Dalmation coast.
On 28th August 1895, Šibenik became the first city on the planet to power its street lighting by alternating current. To commemorate this achievement, the city hosts a light show every year on its anniversary.
Expect an electric atmosphere as crowds of visitors take the streets in celebration. Promising such a unique experience, attending Light is Life has to be one of the top things to do in Šibenik.
Šibenik city centre is still buzzing in September, with temperatures still hovering at pleasant temperatures around 20°C. Due to the great weather, this is a great time to explore outdoor attractions such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of St Nicholas.
The Medieval Fair in Šibenik takes place every September during the Feast of St. Michael, the patron saint of the city. Prepare to be taken back to the Middle Ages as two days of knight fights, dancing and sea battles take over the city in homage to local tradition and culture.
October is not usually tourists’ first choice when they think of holidaying in Šibenik. However, flight and hotel prices tend to be a touch lower while temperatures remain rather pleasant around 15°C. It is worth noting however that the water temperature tends to be a bit too cold for comfort.
Thus, this is not the time to visit for those wanting to swim at Šibenik beaches. That is not to say that you’ll find yourself short on things to do, the city is blessed with a plethora of other fantastic attractions including wonderful museums.
As the wettest month of the year, the weather in Šibenik in November certainly doesn’t draw in the same number of tourists as the summer months. Yet, this could be the best time to visit for those who aren’t put off by the idea of exploring under the comfort of an umbrella.
Šibenik city centre will be a lot quieter than usual, meaning that you will be able to see the sights at their most peaceful. If you are dreaming of investigating the local marine life but not wanting to brace the cold sea temperatures, head to Aquarium Šibenik where you can see all of the incredible sea creatures in comfort.
A magical time to visit Šibenik, Croatia, the festive cheer of Christmas fills Šibenik in December. Wander around the idyllic city streets at their flashiest, adorned with festive lights and ornaments.
The buzz of the Christmas Market in Poljana, Šibenik’s main square, will soon have you forgetting that the weather is leaving much to be desired.
An enchanting ambience fills the site as live music, festive eateries and lights take over the square. Meander around the wonderous setting, sampling traditional bites, sipping at yule-themed beverages and enjoying the live entertainment.
A gorgeous city situated along the southern coast of Croatia, Šibenik is a wonderful place to visit for those seeking an unspoilt paradise. With a fraction of the number of tourists in Dubrovnik and Split, you can admire the city’s rich cultural heritage and UNESCO-protected marvels in total peace and serenity.
For more information about planning a holiday to Šibenik, why not read our guides on the best time to visit and the best things to do in the town?
If you’re planning a visit to Šibenik and are looking for somewhere to stay in the area, Vida Villas has a fantastic selection of accommodation to choose from. Browse our collection of villas in the area, or get in touch and talk to our team about what you’re looking for.
