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Žirje

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City
—°3
Žirje (Croatia)
ℹ️

Practical info — Žirje

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Žirje is the most remote island in the archipelago; bring all essential medications and enough cash from the mainland.
  • Always wear water shoes when swimming, as the rocky coastline is home to many sea urchins (a sign of very clean water).
  • Stock up on groceries in Šibenik before boarding the ferry, as the island's only shop has a very limited selection.
  • Enjoy the spectacular starry sky; due to minimal light pollution, the Milky Way is often clearly visible.

🍽 Food

🍽
Grilled fresh fish

Ask for the catch of the day at Konoba Koromašna, traditionally prepared over a wood-fired grill.

🍽
Octopus under peka

Octopus slow-cooked for hours under a metal bell; it’s best to order this dish a day in advance.

🍽
Island Olive Oil

Try the robust local oil, often sold directly by the islanders in Muna Bay.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Local Debit wine

A fresh white wine variety of the region, which many islanders produce for personal use.

🛍
Fresh fish from the pier

Be at the waterfront in Muna early in the morning when fishermen return to buy directly from the boat.

🧘
Pernastica Bay

One of the most beautiful and secluded bays on the western side, excellent for total peace and isolation.

🧘
Gradina Byzantine Fortress

6th-century ruins offering an impressive panoramic view of the Kornati islands and the open sea.

Žirje is the outermost inhabited island in the Šibenik archipelago, known for its rugged beauty and unspoiled atmosphere. Its name is derived from acorns (žir), reflecting the oak forests that once covered the island. The coastline is highly indented, featuring numerous deep bays such as Muna, Koromašna, and Mikavica, which are legendary among the sailing community. Historically, the island served as a strategic lookout point, evidenced by the 6th-century Byzantine fortress of Gradina. In more recent times, Žirje played a crucial role in the defense of Šibenik during the 1991 war due to its coastal artillery positions. Today, it is a haven for travelers seeking solitude, with no large hotels, only private traditional accommodation. With very few cars, the island is excellent for exploring on foot or by bicycle along paths lined with ancient dry-stone walls. The surrounding waters are exceptionally clear and abundant with fish, attracting divers and fishing enthusiasts alike. Žirje is a rare Mediterranean gem that has a glimpse into a tranquil, traditional way of island life.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C111112151822252522191612
Rain mm85837058524736399283119107

Geography

Population
147
Coordinates
43.65750, 15.65240

Facts

  • Outermost island near Šibenik
  • Byzantine fortress Gradina
  • Deep and protected bays
  • Vital role in Šibenik's defense
  • Top destination for sailors
  • Abundant marine life
  • Virtually car-free island
  • Ancient dry-stone walls

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Žirje (3)

Benediktinski Samonstan Kucista🏺 historical

The ruins of a former Benedictine monastery on the island of Žirje, dating back to the early Middle Ages.

Samograd Stari Stan🏺 historical

Historical remains of an ancient settlement and fortification on the island of Žirje.

Plaža Stupica🎡 recreation

Hidden away in the pretty Stupica Bay on the island of Žirje lies this exceptionally quiet beach. Visitors are greeted by crystal-clear waters that are also highly popular among boaters looking for an anchorage. It is a wonderful place to soak up the sun far from the crowds and take in the pristine island nature. Arriving by boat or via a long walk turns the visit into a memorable experience.

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Žirje island?
By ferry or catamaran from Šibenik (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours).
Are there sandy beaches on Žirje?
Most bays have pebbles or rocks, but the water is extremely clear.
Is the island inhabited?
Yes, but only by a few people, making it a very quiet retreat.
What can you visit on Žirje?
The remains of the Byzantine fortress Gradina and old military installations.
Are there restaurants on the island?
Yes, in Muna and Koromašna bays there are several konobas serving fresh fish.
Žirje: where is it located?
Žirje is located in Croatia.
Žirje: what is there to see?
Highlights include Benediktinski Samonstan Kucista, Samograd Stari Stan, Plaža Stupica.
Žirje: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Žirje: why is it worth visiting?
Žirje is the outermost inhabited island in the Šibenik archipelago, known for its rugged beauty and unspoiled atmosphere.
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