Things To Do
in Murter
Murter is a small, sun-drenched island town on Croatia’s central Dalmatian coast known for its marinas, fishing heritage and easy access to the Kornati archipelago. The island combines sandy and pebbly beaches, clear Adriatic water, and low, pine‑covered hills with vantage points that offer sweeping sea views. In summer the pace is lively with boat tours, day‑trippers and festivals; outside peak season it’s peaceful and local life is more evident.
Murter’s compact villages—Murter, Tisno, Betina and Jezera—make it a relaxed base for sailing, swimming and short mainland excursions to Krka and Šibenik.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Murter and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll by the waterfront and soak in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a traditional Croatian breakfast at a local café.
Explore the charming village of Murter, visiting local shops and markets for unique souvenirs. Head to Slanica Beach for a refreshing swim or sunbathing while enjoying the warm sun. Grab a light lunch at a beachside bistro, savoring fresh seafood and other local specialties.
As the sun begins to set, dine at a waterfront restaurant, tasting some of the region’s finest wines. Enjoy a quiet walk along the promenade, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore. Cap off the evening with a gelato from a local parlor.
Take an early boat tour to explore nearby islands such as Kornati and Zlarin. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters during the short ride. Stop at a secluded cove for a swim to start your day off right.
Visit the island of Kornati, known for its natural beauty and stunning cliffs. Enjoy a picnic lunch on a secluded beach while surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon snorkeling and discovering the vibrant underwater life.
Return to Murter and relax with a dinner featuring local delicacies. Enjoy the lively atmosphere in the village as you participate in a cultural event or local market. Wind down with a cocktail at a bar with a view of the harbor.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🍷Bottle of local wine (mid‑range) | $8-20 |
| 🚌Local bus or short taxi ride | $2-10 |
| 🚤Kornati day boat trip | $40-90 |
| 🏨Mid‑range hotel per night (summer) | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to stunning islands and clear Adriatic water (great for sailing and snorkeling).
- Charming, low‑key villages with authentic Dalmatian atmosphere and good seafood.
- Compact, walkable towns and a variety of outdoor activities nearby.
- Less crowded than larger tourist hubs if you avoid peak weeks.
- Very busy and more expensive during peak summer months; limited availability without advance booking.
- Fewer nightlife and entertainment options outside the high season.
- Some services and restaurants close in winter—reduced public transport and tour availability.
- Limited medical facilities on the island for serious emergencies; transfer to larger hospitals may be required.
- "Dobar dan" - Good day / Hello
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gdje je plaža?" - Where is the beach?
- "Mogu li dobiti račun?" - Can I get the bill?
Places to Visit in Murter
Visit one of these nice places.
A photogenic bridge connecting the island to the mainland—great for sunrise/sunset shots, reflections and boat activity.
Picturesque harbor with historic wooden boats and traditional boatbuilding workshops—rich in texture and local character.
Sandy cove with shallow clear water and pine backdrop—excellent for wide‑angle seascapes and family beach scenes.
Low hills and viewpoints offering panoramic views over the Kornati archipelago and turquoise channels—best at golden hour.
Stark limestone islands and open sea—dramatic aerial and boat‑level photos of cliffs, coves and scattered islets.
Harbor lights, moored boats and waterfront cafés provide atmospheric evening photography opportunities.
Food in Murter
Murter Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole grilled fish—sea bream, sea bass or local scorpion fish—simply seasoned with olive oil, lemon and herbs; widely available on harborside terraces.
Must-Try!
A slow‑cooked dish of lamb, veal or octopus with potatoes cooked under a metal bell covered in embers; traditional and worth trying when offered.
Squid ink risotto with tender squid pieces—a staple Dalmatian seafood specialty found in many coastal restaurants.
Slow‑braised beef in a rich, slightly sweet sauce served with gnocchi—more common on menus for those seeking traditional Dalmatian meat dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small daily fish stands by the harbor where fishermen sell the morning’s catch—great for buying fresh fish to have prepared at a konoba or for self‑cooking if you have facilities.
Seasonal stalls with local produce, olives, cheeses and homemade pastries—good for picnic supplies and tasting local products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite ‘dobar dan’ (good day) or a handshake is customary on first meeting; people are generally friendly and welcoming.
Dress casually but modestly when visiting churches—cover shoulders and knees. Beachwear is for the beach; avoid walking around villages in just swimwear.
It’s polite to wait for the host to start eating if invited; complimenting food and accepting small amounts of hospitality is appreciated.
Don’t leave litter on beaches or in parks and follow local rules in protected areas such as Kornati and Krka. Be mindful of private property and agricultural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Murter
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service in restaurants is common. For taxi drivers, small change or rounding up is fine; for hotel porters and guides, a modest tip is customary. Most service staff receive regular wages; tip based on service and satisfaction.
Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in larger restaurants, hotels and shops; smaller konobas, markets and remote services may be cash‑only. ATMs are available on the island but can run low in high season—carry some euros or kuna (if still using cash locally) and check current currency status. Contactless and mobile payments are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August are warm and busy with temperatures 25–33°C (77–91°F), crowded beaches, frequent boat tours and festivals. Book accommodation and boat trips in advance; expect lively nightlife and limited parking. Water is warm and ideal for swimming and diving. Bring sun protection and be prepared for higher prices.
April–May offer mild weather (15–23°C / 59–73°F), blooming landscapes and fewer tourists—great for active pursuits, cycling and quieter sightseeing. Some services and restaurants open gradually as the season picks up.
September–October are warm and pleasant (18–26°C / 64–79°F) with calmer seas and good sailing conditions; many businesses remain open into October. It’s a good shoulder‑season choice for lower crowds and bargain deals.
November–March are cool and quiet with some businesses closed; temperatures range 5–12°C (41–54°F). It’s peaceful and cheap but many tourist services and boat tours are suspended—plan logistics ahead if visiting off‑season.
Murter at Night
Hiking in Murter
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes up low hills on and near Murter offer panoramic views over the Kornati islands and Adriatic sea—suitable for morning or late‑afternoon walks.
A 40–60 minute drive to the mainland leads to boardwalks and scenic trails around waterfalls and river gorges—excellent for day hikes and photography.
Coastal wetlands and birdwatching trails near Biograd that provide gentle walking routes and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Short coastal walks on some Kornati islands (access by boat) showcase stark limestone scenery and secluded bays—bring water and sun protection, trails can be exposed.
Airports
How to reach Murter by plane.
Approximately 60–90 km (90–120 minutes by car or bus depending on route) with good international connections. From Split you can rent a car, take a bus to Šibenik/Tisno and cross the bridge to Murter, or arrange private transfer.
Around 70–100 km (about 1–1.5 hours by car) and convenient for northern Dalmatia access. Regular bus and car hire options make it a practical choice; transfers to Murter are common in summer.
Further afield (~3–4 hours by car), suitable for those combining inland Croatia with a coastal visit. Domestic flights, trains or long‑distance buses link Zagreb to the Dalmatian coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long‑term island inhabitants engaged in fishing, boatbuilding, tourism, agriculture and small businesses—communities are family‑oriented with strong local traditions.
European beachgoers, sailors and festival crowds flock here in summer, markedly increasing the population and activity levels.
A modest number of foreign property owners and seasonal residents, often retirees or second‑home owners, who are integrated into local life.
Visitors from nearby coastal towns and islands on day boats, especially en route to the Kornati and Krka parks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing and yachting are extremely popular due to easy island access, marinas and favorable summer winds—charters and schools are common.
Football is the most popular spectator and participatory sport across Croatia, with local amateur clubs and community matches.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and recreational diving are widespread summer activities.
Both recreational and small‑scale commercial fishing are part of the local culture and leisure options.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Murter.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are less central to local cuisine—look for salads, grilled vegetables, pasta with olive oil or tomato sauces, and cheese plates. Communicate preferences and ask for vegetable‑based specials at konobas.
Vegan choices are available but limited outside peak tourist areas—bring snacks for remote outings and request simple grilled veg, salads without cheese, or pasta with olive oil and garlic.
Many seafood and grilled dishes are naturally gluten‑free, but verify with staff about sauces and breadcrumbs. Some restaurants can accommodate gluten‑free requests if asked.
Seafood is ubiquitous—be explicit about shellfish or fish allergies. Carry allergy cards in Croatian for clear communication if needed.