Silba – the car-free island of captains

Silba is a small, flat island in the outer Zadar archipelago where no cars are allowed. Instead of traffic there are wheelbarrows for luggage, stone walls, gardens and the houses of former sea captains – Silba was a wealthy seafaring island in the 18th and 19th centuries. If you simply want to slow down, this is one of the most relaxed islands in Croatia.

At a glance

Region: North Dalmatia, Zadar archipelago
Access: catamaran and ferry from Zadar (catamaran approx. 1.5 h)
Cars: none – the island is car-free
Beaches: sand and pebbles, e.g. Šotorišće
Best time to visit: June, September
Ideal for: peace-seekers, families with small children

What makes Silba special

Toreta the lookout tower with an outdoor staircase in the village, linked to a captain's love legend
Šotorišće shallow sandy cove on the east side, ideal for children
Walks it's only about 20 minutes on foot from the east to the west side of the island
Sunsets towards evening the west coast is the island's best spot

Getting there and staying

Silba is reached by catamaran or the slower ferry from Zadar; in season there's also a catamaran towards Mali Lošinj. The car stays in Zadar. Accommodation is almost entirely private apartments and rooms; there are a few konobas, small shops and a bakery.

Honest verdict

Silba has no nightlife, little infrastructure and accommodation that's largely booked up in July/August – many regulars have come for decades. Out of season some places are closed. But that is exactly why people love the island.