Zlarin & Prvić – coral island and Faust Vrančić's island

Zlarin is just a short ferry ride from Šibenik, yet it's a world of its own: no cars, a long waterfront promenade, pine forests and small swimming coves. For centuries the island has been known for its coral divers and coral jewellery, and in 2019 it made headlines with its pledge to do without single-use plastic.

At a glance

Region: North Dalmatia, Šibenik archipelago
Access: passenger ferry from Šibenik, approx. 30 min
Cars: none
Special feature: coral tradition, coral centre
Best time to visit: May to October
Ideal for: day trips, peace-seekers

What to experience on Zlarin

Coral centre small exhibition on the history of coral fishing and crafting
Coral jewellery in a few workshops in the village
Swimming coves pebble and rocky coves reached via paths through the pine forest
Klepac viewpoint short hike with views over the Šibenik archipelago

Getting there

Jadrolinija passenger ferries and catamarans run several times a day from the Šibenik waterfront to Zlarin and on to Prvić. That makes Zlarin an ideal half-day or day trip if you're staying in Šibenik.

Neighbouring Prvić

The boat also stops at Prvić, likewise car-free, with its two villages Prvić Luka and Šepurine. Prvić Luka is the burial place of Faust Vrančić, the Renaissance scholar who described a parachute ("Homo volans") around 1600; the Faust Vrančić Memorial Centre displays models of his inventions. Zlarin and Prvić can be combined in one day.

Honest verdict

Zlarin has no sandy beaches and no major sights; you come for the peace and atmosphere. It's perfect for a few hours, but for a whole holiday only for real peace-seekers.