Things To Do
in Silba
Silba is a tiny Adriatic island in Croatia known for its car-free streets and pristine shoreline. The charming town center features white stone houses, narrow lanes, and a serene harbor. The island’s landscapes blend pine forests, sheltered coves, and clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming and sunset walks.
With a relaxed pace and a close-knit community, Silba offers an intimate island escape away from larger tourist crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at one of Silba's stunning beaches, such as 'Zadina'. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and soft sandy shores while soaking in the warm morning sun. Grab a light breakfast at a beachside café to fuel up for your day of adventure.
After a relaxing morning, embark on a coastal hike to discover hidden coves and breathtaking vistas. This exploration will lead you to picturesque spots perfect for unpacking a picnic lunch amidst nature. Take your time to soak in the tranquil surroundings and perhaps indulge in some photography.
As the sun begins to set, find a nice spot at a local tavern to savor a traditional Croatian dinner. Enjoy the atmosphere of the small island town while feasting on fresh seafood and sipping local wine. End the evening with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, savoring the serene island life.
Dedicate your morning to visiting the historic sites of Silba, starting with the charming Church of St. Mary. Learn about the history of the island as you explore the architecture and artifacts housed within. Don't forget to take pictures of the picturesque surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit the local museum to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Silba. Engage with friendly locals who are often eager to share stories of the island's past. Spend some time browsing local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
Join one of the evening cultural events, such as traditional music or dance performances, often held in the town square during the summer months. Indulge in another delightful dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy the company of fellow travelers. As night falls, relax under the stars or visit a beach bar for a nightcap.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $80-120 |
| 🚲Bike/scooter rental per day | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Car-free streets and peaceful atmosphere
- Stunning coastal scenery and clear waters
- Friendly locals and authentic island experience
- Accessible from Zadar with frequent ferry connections
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options outside peak season
- Seasonal services and ferry schedules can be limited in off-peak months
- Smaller selection of amenities compared to larger islands and mainland towns
- "Dobar dan" - Hello / Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / Here you go
- "Gdje je centar?" - Where is the center?
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Silba
Visit one of these nice places.
Whitewashed houses, fishing boats, and bougainvillea lining the quiet harbor—perfect for morning light and candid street scenes.
A cliffside path through pine forests with sweeping sea views, ideal for wide landscape shots and sunsets.
Narrow staircases and sunlit courtyards with Mediterranean textures for architectural detail photos.
A small hilltop vantage near the town offering panoramic views of the Adriatic and the shoreline at golden hour.
Food in Silba
Silba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught fish prepared simply with olive oil, lemon, and herbs; best enjoyed at seaside konobas along the harbor.
Must-Try!
A rich, aromatic risotto featuring squid ink; commonly found in local seaside restaurants.
Assortment of freshly caught shellfish and fish, served with crusty bread and olive oil.
Local cheese served with ripe figs and a drizzle of olive oil; a popular island snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small market near the pier selling fresh fish, local olive oil, honey, and seasonal fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Croatians typically greet with a handshake and eye contact; use polite phrases like Dobar dan (good day).
Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in public spaces; respect quiet hours and local norms.
Croatian is spoken; learning a few phrases helps. English is common in tourist areas, especially in accommodation and eateries.
Safety
Tipping in Silba
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included. A small amount left at cafes for good service is common.
Cash in HRK is widely accepted; major credit/debit cards are commonly accepted in most places; contactless payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with strong sun; peak tourist activity and ferry schedules. Stay hydrated, use reef-safe sunscreen, and enjoy long days by the sea.
Milder temperatures and blooming plants; ideal for hiking and photography with fewer crowds. Some services may start seasonal hours.
Warm sea with cooler days; shoulder season with fewer visitors, great for peaceful coastal walks and vibrant sunsets.
Cool and windy with occasional rain; more limited ferry schedules and some facilities closed, but a tranquil atmosphere and dramatic seascapes.
Silba at Night
Hiking in Silba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A loop around the island’s coastline with sea views, pine forests, and several vantage points for photography.
Gentle climbs to overlook points offering panoramic views of the Adriatic and harbor.
Airports
How to reach Silba by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; from here you can take a ferry or catamaran to Silba. Plan for transfer time to the port.
Alternative gateway with connections to many European cities; longer onward journey to Silba via ferry from Zadar or nearby piers.
Regional option with seasonal flights; further travel required to reach Silba by ferry or land transfer to the coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A small, close-knit community of Croatians who maintain traditional island routines and welcome visitors with warm hospitality.
Tourists and seasonal workers peak in summer, bringing more activity to the harbor and local taverns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Pristine Adriatic waters make swimming and snorkeling popular, especially around sheltered coves.
Gentle sea breezes suit beginner and experienced sailors; kayaking offers coves and sea cave exploration.
Coastal trails and country lanes provide easy to moderate routes with scenic views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Silba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find salads, grilled vegetables, cheese, and egg-based dishes; communicate clearly (e.g., 'bez mesa' for no meat) at smaller taverns, which often offer vegetable-forward options and pasta dishes.