4 Best Sights in Šibenik, Central Dalmatia

Šibenik's most famous piece of architecture, the Cathedral of St. James was built in several distinct stages and styles between 1431 and 1535, and it's been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000. The lower level is the work of Venetian architects who contributed the finely carved Venetian-Gothic portals, whereas the rest of the building follows plans drawn up by local architect Juraj Dalmatinac, who proposed the Renaissance cupola. Note the frieze running around the outer wall, with 74 faces carved in stone from the island of Brač. One of the cathedral's highlights, the tiny baptistery with minutely chiseled stone decorations was designed by Dalmatinac but executed by Andrija Aleši. Admission includes entry to the worthwhile interpretation center Civitas Sacra, which has an interactive exhibition of sacral treasures and art. It's a three-minute walk from the cathedral in the Galbiani Palace ( Kralja Tomislava 10).

This fortress dating back to the 11th century guards the city below from atop a steep rocky hill. Re-fortified over the years, it was once the city's main point of defense. A climb to the top grants you vistas of the sea, surrounding islands, and the medieval town. On occasion, special events and concerts are held on an open-air stage in the fortress.

Standing at the entrance of Šibenik's St. Anthony's Channel, the Fortress of St. Nicholas sits on the islet of Ljuljevac and is an imposing Renaissance-era Venetian-style building. Constructed in 1540, the fortress was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2017. It is definitely worth a visit from land—or better yet, from the sea via kayak.

The recipient of many awards for its bottles of the famous Babić wine variety—today a symbol of Primošten, Šibenik, and all of Croatia—Vinoplod Winery can be contacted for tours and tastings.