Company Retreats in Šibenik, Croatia

Cost: $$
Airports: Zadar ZAD, Split SPU
Wait time to obtain a visa: 15-30 days

Who can travel visa-free: check nationality here

Climate: Mediterranean
Time zone: GMT+02:00
Ease of connectivity ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The city of Šibenik – a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, located in Dalmatia on the Adriatic coast, it has stunning sea views, charming stone architecture, and a rich historical heritage. Teams can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring medieval streets and historic sites to relaxing on beautiful beaches. Šibenik’s culinary scene and warm hospitality make it a great destination for team bonding and creating lasting experiences.

One of the standout features of organizing retreats in Šibenik is the personalized service provided by local experts. These professionals ensure that every aspect of the retreat is tailored to the team's needs, offering unique and authentic experiences. Whether it's arranging guided tours, outdoor adventures, or cultural excursions, the local expertise enhances the retreat, making it productive and enjoyable for everyone. With its picturesque setting and over 1000 years of history, Šibenik is a top choice for companies looking to create a truly unforgettable retreat.

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Šibenik bridge and a boat in front of it

How to Get There

Reaching Šibenik from various parts of the world is simpler than it may seem. With well-connected airports nearby, efficient public transport, and private travel options, Šibenik and the surrounding region are well-prepared to welcome international teams.

For most global teams, the easiest way to arrive in Šibenik is by flying into one of the region’s main airports, followed by convenient transport arrangements to your retreat location. The area is well-equipped for international travelers, making the journey straightforward regardless of your starting point.

Šibenik is served by two nearby airports, each providing easy access to different parts of the coastline:

  • Split (SPU) is the central gateway to Dalmatia, with extensive connections to cities across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Located about 50 km (31 miles) from Šibenik, it offers numerous international and domestic flights.
  • Zadar (ZAD) serves the northern part of Dalmatia. Located approximately 73 km (45 miles) from Šibenik, it’s a convenient entry point for those staying in that area.

For larger groups or those seeking convenience, hiring a private coach is an excellent option. Numerous companies in the region offer coach services tailored to corporate groups, featuring comfortable, air-conditioned buses for airport transfers, local tours, or transportation between retreat activities.

Why Choose Šibenik, Croatia for Your Team Retreat

Experience the charm of Šibenik, a perfect European retreat destination that offers a captivating mix of natural beauty and rich, millennia-long culture. Its warm climate and stunning landscapes set the stage for productive meetings, exciting team-building activities, and inspiring brainstorming sessions.

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Accommodation for Teams in Šibenik

In Šibenik, teams can find a variety of accommodations that cater to both comfort and convenience, ensuring a productive and enjoyable retreat. There are several options ranging from modern serviced apartments, charming boutique lodgings and hotels to beachfront hotel resorts, all equipped with essential amenities to meet the needs of corporate groups. These accommodations are strategically located to provide easy access to meeting venues, local attractions, and leisure activities, making it seamless to balance work and relaxation.

The diverse accommodation options in Šibenik offer tailored services such as flexible meeting spaces, high-speed internet, and catered meals, ensuring that teams can focus on their goals without worrying about logistics. With the backdrop of Šibenik's stunning coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage, teams are guaranteed an inspiring environment that enhances both collaboration and creativity. From team-building activities to quiet spaces for reflection, these accommodations provide everything necessary for a successful retreat.

Aerial view of a hotel
A street in Šibenik

Fun and Leisure Activities

Šibenik, like the rest of Dalmatia, is perfect for both chilling out and diving into adventure, with activities for every taste. If your retreat is beachside, your team can spend sunny days having a blast with sailing, windsurfing, kite surfing, snorkeling, or paddleboarding in the Adriatic’s clear waters. For team-building, the options are endless—whether it’s playing games on sandy beaches, exploring rocky mountains, or hanging out in urban spots, there’s plenty of fun and bonding to be had.

Beyond the coastline, the Šibenik area offers a wealth of experiences. Your team can explore Dalmatinska Zagora, with its mountains and rivers, join guided tours of ancient sites, or simply wander through local streets and sights to soak up the vibrant atmosphere. The region is famous for its delicious food, with many restaurants serving traditional Croatian and Mediterranean cuisine. In the evenings, your team can kick back and enjoy the lively nightlife, whether they prefer chill bars or hitting the clubs, or concerts with the best view in the Mediterranean at Saint Michael’s Fortress.

Culture

Šibenik has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that spans centuries. As one of the oldest native Croatian cities on the Adriatic coast, it is steeped in history. The city’s architectural marvels, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. James' Cathedral, showcases the exquisite blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The narrow, winding streets of the old town are filled with charming stone buildings and historical landmarks that tell tales of bygone eras.

Beyond its historical architecture, Šibenik is a vibrant hub of cultural activities and events. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from traditional Dalmatian music and folklore to modern art and international film and music. These events bring the community together and attract visitors from all over the world, creating a lively and dynamic cultural scene. Notable festivals include the International Children's Festival, the Šibenik Dance Festival, and SHIP Music Festival, which highlight the city’s commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression.

Šibenik’s culture is also deeply intertwined with its culinary traditions. The local cuisine, heavily influenced by Mediterranean flavors, features fresh seafood, olive oil, and locally sourced produce. Visitors can savor traditional dishes at family-owned restaurants called konoba (taverns) or explore modern interpretations of Croatian cuisine at upscale restaurants. The city's markets and food festivals offer a taste of authentic regional specialties and provide a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of its residents. This culinary richness adds another layer to Šibenik’s cultural tapestry, making it a truly unique and enriching destination.

Lion statue
Hand holding a passport in front of a world map

Visa Requirements for Croatia

When planning a company retreat to Šibenik, it’s important to understand visa requirements for your team. Croatia is part of the Schengen area, so some travelers will need a tourist visa, but the process is straightforward.

Travelers who will need a visa to enter Croatia have to submit the Schengen visa application at the competent Croatian embassy/consulate or at VFS Global Visa Application Center.

The visa allows stays of up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism or business purposes.

Travel Medical Insurance is mandatory for a Schengen visa. Get Schengen-compliant Travel Medical Insurance from trusted global insurers.

Always check the official website for current information about visas.

In life, I believe in gyres, cycles that seemingly bring you back to the starting point, but only seemingly because everything has changed in the meantime. For me, it meant trotting the globe, only to realize that the most beautiful and inspiring places were the ones that I started from. In this sense, I am rediscovering my homeland, exploring every nook and cranny, creating relationships, putting together a dynamic puzzle of synestetic experiences called Croatia.

Nowhere else have I witnessed such extraordinary natural beauty, cultural and gastronomic richness, friendly natives and felt absolutely safe in one place. From the eastern plains and skiing with a seaview to the thousands of islands and bays of the Adriatic, Croatia has it all within a couple of hours drive. Drawing on three culinary traditions – Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Mediterranean – Croatia is a confetti bomb of experiences.

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Fun Facts you didn’t know about Šibenik

The Šibenik Archipelago counts 220 islands

The Šibenik Archipelago, with its 220 islands stretching from Cape Ploče to the islet of Grujica, offers a serene escape with picturesque bays and beaches. These hidden gems provide peace and tranquility, disturbed only by the sounds of the sea and crickets. The archipelago is known for its rich fishing traditions, charming Dalmatian villages, and stunning natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Krka National Park

Located near Šibenik, Krka National Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, including the famous Skradinski Buk. Established in 1985 to protect the natural landscape and biodiversity of the Krka River, the park offers visitors a chance to explore its scenic beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and historical sites. This makes it a top destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, who can enjoy the park’s trails, boat tours, and educational exhibits. The park's commitment to preservation and its breathtaking scenery provide a remarkable experience for all who visit.

First Street Lighting in the World

Šibenik gained recognition as the first city in the world to illuminate its streets using a polyphasic system of alternating current. This achievement was powered by the Jaruga Hydroelectric Power Plant, the world's second oldest of its kind. Construction of Jaruga began in 1894 and took over a year to complete, ultimately providing enough electricity to power 340 street lights throughout the city.

The Parachute was invented in Šibenik

The renowned Šibenik innovator and inventor, Faust Vrančić, gifted the world with inventions like the parachute, hanging bridge, and cable car. A man of diverse scientific interests, he delved into lexicography, philosophy, theology, and technology, and was fluent in at least seven languages. Known as Faustus Verantius in Latin, Vrančić is celebrated as the most significant constructor and technical writer among Croatians from the late 16th to early 17th century. Born in 1551 in Šibenik, he authored numerous inventions, with the parachute, hanging bridge, and cable car being his most famous contributions.

While visiting Šibenik, make sure to explore the Faust Vrančić Memorial Centre on the nearby island of Prvić to discover some of his remarkable inventions.

The Home of Dražen Petrović

Dražen Petrović, born on October 22, 1964, in Šibenik, Croatia, was a legendary shooting guard known for his incredible skill and passion for basketball. He achieved great success in Europe with teams like Cibona and Real Madrid before making a significant impact in the NBA with the Portland Trail Blazers and New Jersey Nets. Petrović's career was tragically cut short when he died in a car accident on June 7, 1993, at the age of 28, but his legacy as one of the greatest European basketball players continues to inspire fans and players alike.

Buttons, Hats and Bagatins

If you're looking for an authentic Šibenik souvenir, look no further than the Šibenik Button, Bagatin, and Hat. The Šibenik Button, once a decorative part of male national costumes, is now a popular souvenir available as earrings, rings, charms, and more, often made of silver, gold, or aluminum. The Šibenik Bagatin, historically the city's currency, was minted with symbols of St. Mark and St. Michael and used for over two centuries. The distinctive Šibenik Hat, in its signature orange color with black embroidery, hails from a rich tradition linked to the city's industrial history. Each of these unique items reflects the deep cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Šibenik.

Falconry Center close to Šibenik

Wildlife enthusiasts should check out the Dubrava Falconry Center, located just 7km from Šibenik. It's the only place in Croatia where you can enjoy birdwatching for all kinds of birds of prey. Get up close with these majestic creatures and discover more about the Center for Rehabilitation of Birds of Prey.

Proud Host to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The first is the Cathedral of St. James, constructed between the 15th and 16th centuries. It took five generations over a century to build, resulting in perfectly proportioned architecture that appears to be crafted from a single piece of stone. Remarkably, it is the only cathedral in Europe built entirely of stone without binder mortars or wooden elements.

The second UNESCO site is St. Nicholas Fortress, recognized as part of the nomination "The Republic of Venice Defense Systems" from the 15th to the 17th century.

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Activities in Šibenik

Šibenik provides a variety of activities that create unforgettable experiences, enhancing your team's overall satisfaction.

Rafting and Safari on Zrmanja River

Rafting on the Zrmanja River provides a spectacular adventure along a 14 km trail filled with rapids and waterfalls. Expect hours of pure adrenaline, fun, and beautiful natural scenery. The Zrmanja River will captivate you with its emerald green color, crystal-clear water, and a 200-meter-deep canyon. With its numerous rapids and waterfalls, the river is perfect for wild water adventures. When the water level is high, it's ideal for rafting, while lower water levels make it perfect for kayaking tours. Due to its untamed nature, the river is often referred to as "Beauty and the Beast."

Rafting and Safari on Zrmanja River

Jeep Safari on the Velebit Mountain

Professional drivers guide you through typically inaccessible roads, rugged trails, and steep ascents in Velebit Nature Park. This unforgettable journey across the Velebit mountain range, passing through the Zrmanja River canyon and along the historic Majstorska cesta – a gravel road that was the first to connect Dalmatia with continental Croatia – is packed with adrenaline.

The adventure includes multiple stops where your team can take in the unique views from peaks as high as 1,100 meters. You’ll also visit Tulove grede, one of the most striking mountain summits, offering a breathtaking view of the Zrmanja River canyon.

Additionally, there's an option to enjoy lunch at a family farm in the mountains, where you can savor traditional dishes typical of the region.

Jeep Safari on the Velebit Mountain

Boat Tours and Island Hopping

Boat tours offer companies the perfect opportunity to organize a variety of team-building activities where people can have fun, strengthen relationships, unwind, and collaboratively tackle challenges beyond the scope of everyday tasks. These custom-tailored boat tour adventures are designed to rejuvenate your team's spirit in the midst of untouched natural beauty. Each tour can be fully customized to match your company’s preferences, whether it's a fully-guided excursion for groups of any size or a personalized approach that ensures high-quality, unforgettable experiences.

During these tours, your employees can acquire basic navigational and boating skills while gaining fascinating insights from our experienced local crews. Beyond the learning experience, there’s ample opportunity for relaxation on breathtaking island locations, exploration of captivating landmarks, and enjoyment of the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. The combination of adventure, learning, and relaxation ensures that everyone will return from the trip refreshed, motivated, and with lasting memories of an exciting journey together.

Boat Tours and Island Hopping

Old Town Challenge

The objective is to locate the mystery spots, capture a photo of yourself and your team at each one, and reach the designated finish line. The team that visits the most mystery locations and therefore earns the highest number of points will be the winner – in other words, the team that uncovers the most sites within the allotted time.

Each location is hinted at through a riddle, which must be solved to reveal the destination. You can crack the riddle by asking a local, using your smartphone, or employing similar methods. The Old Town challenge takes place within the historical centers of cities and can be organized in most Dalmatian cities and island towns. Put your team into a different environment and let them solve problems together while having fun.

Old Town Challenge

Beachfront Games

"Stations" are set up along the beachfront, each offering a unique team-building challenge – fun tasks that require coordination and a bit of creativity to solve, but no specific physical ability or fitness level, making these activities ideal for groups of all kinds.

The challenges include games like "spider’s web," "lift the bucket," and other entertaining activities that are sure to make everybody laugh. This approach ensures that every team member is actively engaged throughout the event. If desired, the afternoon can conclude with cocktails, spritzers, beer, or sodas while enjoying the stunning sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

Beachfront Games

Paklenica National Park Hike

Paklenica National Park in Dalmatia provides a wide range of activities ideal for team-building and outdoor adventures. You can hike the Velika Paklenica Canyon, the park’s most popular trail, which winds through a breathtaking canyon with striking rock formations. There are also Educational Trails, such as the Velika Paklenica Educational Track and the Paklarić Educational Track, offering enriching hiking experiences. For those interested in exploring underground wonders, the Manita Peć Cave is open for guided tours. Additionally, several cycling trails are available, offering various ways to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.

Additionally, there are cultural and historical sites to explore, such as the Underground City of Paklenica. This network of tunnels, also known as the "Bunkers”, was constructed in the 1950s and has since been transformed into a multimedia hall, exhibition space, souvenir shop, and coffee bar. Another notable site is the Ethnic House Marasović, a traditional home within the park that highlights local architecture and lifestyle, making it an ideal spot for a cultural break during your visit.

Paklenica National Park Hike

Krka River and Lake Prokljan Kayaking

The rugged terrain of the Šibenik hinterland might not immediately reveal that at the base of Dinara, Croatia's highest mountain, one of the most captivating karst rivers, the Krka River, begins its journey hidden behind a ten-meter-high waterfall. Nearby, the charming historical town of Skradin sits at the river's mouth, and about 20 km away is Šibenik, which is currently enjoying a tourism revival. This makes the Krka River an excellent destination for a day trip into a realm of travertine formations, powerful waterfalls, and a unique landscape shaped by the river's flow.

Though the Krka River is largely protected within Krka National Park and kayaking is not allowed, you can still enjoy paddling by starting from Skradin and making your way to the picturesque Lake Prokljan, where the Krka’s cold waters blend with the sea. You can leisurely all the way down to Šibenik, with a stop at the beach of Bilice for a swim and a taste of local delicacies, such as locally caught eels.

Krka River and Lake Prokljan Kayaking

Sailing Regatta

A sailing regatta serves as an ideal metaphor for teamwork, where the more effectively the crew collaborates, the faster the boat moves. This activity is designed to be inclusive, accommodating both seasoned sailors and novices alike. No prior sailing experience is necessary; the focus is entirely on teamwork and enjoyment. Operating a sailboat naturally fosters bonding within teams. The event sparks a competitive spirit, fosters companionship, and creates lasting memories for all participants.

Everyone aboard gets the chance to be the ship’s captain, regardless of their role within the company. Every individual's contribution is crucial to the success of the sailing team. Before the regatta begins, teams participate in a brief sailing tutorial, after which they are divided into sailboat crews of approximately 6-10 people, depending on the size of the boat. Each sailboat will be guided by a professional skipper to ensure everything proceeds smoothly and safely.

Sailing Regatta

Make a Short Movie or an Ad Video

The group is divided into teams, each assigned their own conference room. They have about 60 minutes to get creative and develop engaging content for a short movie or ad video, which they'll film later in the day. The theme of the video can optionally relate to one of the company’s products, services, the business itself, or anything else.

Teams must decide on the roles each member will take, such as performers, camera operators, directors, and so on. Each team is provided with a camera and a clapperboard to help organize the shots they want the editor to use in the final cut. Once filming is complete, it may take up to 24 hours for us to edit the videos and add music if needed.

The next day is Awards Night. The film crew members arrive at the venue, walking down the red carpet and posing for the paparazzi in front of a press wall featuring the company logo. During dinner, the short films or ads are screened, and nominees are announced in various categories like “Best Actor/Actress in a Leading Role,” “Best Picture,” “Best Director,” and more. The envelopes are opened: “And the winner is…” As the winners accept their statuettes, heartfelt acceptance speeches are expected and warmly applauded.

Make a Short Movie or an Ad Video

Dalmatian Cuisine Food Tour

This food tour offers an experience that feels like strolling through the city with a local friend eager to share the stories, history, and hidden gems of their hometown. It's an intimate journey where the guide's passion for the city and its culinary delights shines through, making you feel like you're exploring with someone who genuinely wants you to feel the city just as they do.

Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to sample dishes at carefully selected establishments, each offering a unique taste of the city’s diverse culinary landscape. As you move from one restaurant to the next, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the city’s history. The portion sizes are thoughtfully curated, ensuring that you’re satisfied without feeling overly full or left wanting more. This balance allows you to fully enjoy each dish without any discomfort, making the journey from one eatery to the next a pleasure. Expect top-notch service at every restaurant, reflecting the care and attention the organizers have put into selecting the best spots and the most enjoyable walking route for this tour..

Dalmatian Cuisine Food Tour

Cetina River Zip Line

If you're seeking a blend of thrilling adventure and breathtaking scenery in stunning natural surroundings, a visit to Omiš and the zip line above the crystal-clear Cetina River canyon is a must. Available year-round, this impressive zip line system features a series of platforms connected by eight steel cables, stretching a total of 2,100 meters. The longest cable spans 700 meters and soars 50 meters above the ground, offering an exhilarating ride through the canyon’s stunning landscape.

Completing the entire course, under the guidance of experienced guides, takes about two and a half hours. From the moment you step into the canyon, your eyes will be captivated by the surrounding beauty. The vibrant greens of the vegetation, the deep blues of the river, and the stark whites of the rocky cliffs blend seamlessly, creating an otherworldly and mesmerizing scene that you won’t soon forget.

The Cetina River, on its 104-kilometer journey to the sea, has carved out a remarkable 300-meter-deep canyon in the limestone bedrock between the Mosor and Omiška Dinara mountains, making for a truly unique geomorphological wonder. Whether you're a beginner just starting your outdoor adventure journey or a seasoned thrill-seeker, the Cetina River canyon offers something for everyone. This year-round destination promises adrenaline-pumping fun in a spectacular natural setting that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Cetina River Zip Line

Weather

Chart source: meteoblue.com

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