In the last decade, Croatia has become a fixture on many travellers’ Euro trip itineraries. It offers a lower-cost alternative to Italy and Greece, but still with the same beautiful coastline, delicious food, and interesting history.
I spent about a month in Croatia while travelling through Europe, and of course I ticked off the main sights: Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice National Park, and a week-long sailing tour.
But even though I visited in May, before the tourist season had really kicked off, I constantly found myself battling through crowds.
READ MORE: The best ‘secret’ beaches in Australia where you can get a huge stretch of sand to yourself
Dubrovnik gets really busy, especially in the warmer months. (Getty)
It’s not really how I want to spend my holidays. Sure, it’s good to tick off some of the ‘must-see’ tourist destinations, but I’m not a huge fan of being shuffled along with the masses.
So before leaving Croatia, I set my sights on the small town of Sibenik, an hour north of Split.
READ MORE: The best short road trips in Australia you can tackle on a long weekend
Europe’s 20 fastest-rising hotspots for 2026 to keep your eye on
Is Sibenik worth visiting?
I instantly fell in love. THIS is what I thought I’d get on my Croatia trip. An ancient old town, with centuries-old buildings, cosy tavernas, a peaceful seaside promenade, hidden swimming spots and a nearby national park to explore on bikes.
Every evening I’d get a scoop of ice cream and wander around as the sun went down, watching swans swimming between the small boats moored in the small harbour.
Sibenik is a good alternative if you want to avoid crowds. (Getty)
The gorgeous streets are a lot easier to enjoy than those in Dubrovnik, thanks to the fewer crowds, and you’ll rarely have to wait for a table even in the height of summer.
It also served as a filming location for Game of Thrones, doubling for the fictional city of Braavos.
READ MORE: Why you should never touch a flight attendant: ‘Use your words’
The sun sets over the water every evening. (Supplied)The cruisers are coming
Sibenik is starting to pop up on the radar of more travellers, especially those who value more genuine and tranquil experiences.
Small-ship cruising company Unforgettable Croatia has added an increasing number of departures from Sibenik, allowing intrepid tourists to get a taste of the town before cruising the islands.
Viking Cruises has also added stops in Sibenik to its Mediterranean itineraries.
A brand-new cruise terminal is set to open in the town in late 2026, which is being described as a modern gateway designed to better manage the city’s growing popularity.
It will be just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town, but big enough to fit two cruise ships (up to 260 meters in length).
The streets are peaceful. (Getty)
Sibenik is right by some truly stunning beaches. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Is Sibenik or Zadar better?
A lot of people ask this question when they’re planning their trip.
It depends on what you want.
For a small town, a bit off the beaten track, and a quiet holiday, Sibenik is great.
If you want a bigger city with more amenities (including an airport), and more things to do, then Zadar is perfect.
Krka National Park is a short trip away. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Things to do in Sibenik
- Get lost in the winding streets of the medieval old town, where you’ll find plenty of friendly cats ready for a pat
- Take a picnic down to the waterfront promenade at sunset
- Explore the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral
- Visit the four fortresses for panoramic views
- Take a day trip to Krka National Park and swim in waterfalls
- Hike or cycle the coastal St. Ante Hiking Trail 
- Take a ferry to the car-free Prvić Luka Island, 5km off the coast
- Relax and swim at Banj Beach
Europe’s most underrated travel destinations