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

day 1
Arrival in Murter
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Island Hopping Adventure
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔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.

Tisno Bridge

A photogenic bridge connecting the island to the mainland—great for sunrise/sunset shots, reflections and boat activity.

Betina Marina and traditional boats

Picturesque harbor with historic wooden boats and traditional boatbuilding workshops—rich in texture and local character.

Slanica Beach

Sandy cove with shallow clear water and pine backdrop—excellent for wide‑angle seascapes and family beach scenes.

Raduč/Island viewpoints

Low hills and viewpoints offering panoramic views over the Kornati archipelago and turquoise channels—best at golden hour.

Kornati National Park

Stark limestone islands and open sea—dramatic aerial and boat‑level photos of cliffs, coves and scattered islets.

Murter Old Harbour at dusk

Harbor lights, moored boats and waterfront cafés provide atmospheric evening photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Murter

Murter’s cuisine highlights fresh Adriatic seafood, Mediterranean produce, and rustic Dalmatian fare—olive oil, grilled fish, shellfish, cured meats and homegrown vegetables. Meals are often simple, seasonal and cooked over coals or in earthenware. Local konobas (family taverns) and seaside restaurants focus on freshness and regional recipes. Olive oil, wine from nearby vineyards and locally made rakija are common accompaniments.

Murter Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled fish (Riba na žaru)

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!

Peka (meat/seafood under a bell)

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.

Black risotto (Crni rižot)

Squid ink risotto with tender squid pieces—a staple Dalmatian seafood specialty found in many coastal restaurants.

Pašticada

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

Local fish markets and piers

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.

Tisno morning stalls

Seasonal stalls with local produce, olives, cheeses and homemade pastries—good for picnic supplies and tasting local products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Murter has a Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer temperatures commonly reach mid to high 20s–low 30s°C (77–91°F) with lots of sunshine; sea temperatures are warm suitable for swimming from late May through September. Winters are mild (around 5–12°C / 41–54°F) with more frequent rain and occasional wind; spring and autumn are pleasant shoulder seasons with fewer crowds and moderate temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite ‘dobar dan’ (good day) or a handshake is customary on first meeting; people are generally friendly and welcoming.

Dress and behavior

Dress casually but modestly when visiting churches—cover shoulders and knees. Beachwear is for the beach; avoid walking around villages in just swimwear.

Dining manners

It’s polite to wait for the host to start eating if invited; complimenting food and accepting small amounts of hospitality is appreciated.

Respecting nature

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 Guide

Safety

Murter is generally safe—violent crime is rare and the biggest concerns are petty theft and pickpocketing, especially during busy summer months. Take usual precautions: secure belongings, lock cars, and avoid leaving valuables on the beach. Sea safety matters—swim in safe areas, heed local advice about currents and avoid swimming in poor weather. Emergency number is 112; there are local first‑aid facilities and larger hospitals in Šibenik and Zadar for serious care.

Tipping in Murter

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

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.

Payment Methods

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...

Summer

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.

Spring

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.

Autumn

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.

Winter

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.

Nightlife Guide

Murter at Night

Nightlife in Murter is relaxed compared with larger Dalmatian towns—expect waterfront bars, live acoustic music and seasonal open‑air parties. In summer the scene livens up with beach bars, DJ sets and events, especially around Tisno which hosts electronic music festivals and boat parties. Most late‑night options are seasonal; for a club scene visit nearby Šibenik or Zadar. Evenings are often spent dining by the sea or enjoying cocktails at a marina bar.

Hiking in Murter

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Raduč viewpoint (local hills)

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.

Krka National Park trails

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.

Vrana Lake Nature Park

Coastal wetlands and birdwatching trails near Biograd that provide gentle walking routes and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Kornati island walks

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.

Split Airport (SPU)

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.

Zadar Airport (ZAD)

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.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

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.

Getting Around

Walkability

Murter’s villages are compact and highly walkable—harbors, restaurants and shops are easily explored on foot. Some beaches and viewpoints require short walks; if you plan to explore more remote coves or inland roads, a bike or car is useful. Streets in older parts can be narrow and cobbled, so wear comfortable shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Long‑term island inhabitants engaged in fishing, boatbuilding, tourism, agriculture and small businesses—communities are family‑oriented with strong local traditions.

Seasonal tourists

European beachgoers, sailors and festival crowds flock here in summer, markedly increasing the population and activity levels.

Expat community

A modest number of foreign property owners and seasonal residents, often retirees or second‑home owners, who are integrated into local life.

Day‑trippers

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

Sailing and yachting are extremely popular due to easy island access, marinas and favorable summer winds—charters and schools are common.

Football (soccer)

Football is the most popular spectator and participatory sport across Croatia, with local amateur clubs and community matches.

Water sports

Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and recreational diving are widespread summer activities.

Fishing

Both recreational and small‑scale commercial fishing are part of the local culture and leisure options.

Transportation

Traffic

In summer, roads to and on the island can be congested—expect slow parking searches and heavier weekend traffic. Murter is connected to the mainland by a bridge at Tisno, so car access is straightforward but busy in peak season. Local buses run but schedules are reduced outside high season; taxis and private transfers are options. Many visitors prefer to walk, cycle or use boats for island travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Murter.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

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

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.

Gluten‑free

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.

Allergies

Seafood is ubiquitous—be explicit about shellfish or fish allergies. Carry allergy cards in Croatian for clear communication if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic medical services and a health center are available on Murter for minor issues and first aid. For emergency or specialist care, travel to hospitals in Šibenik (~30–40 km by road) or Zadar/Split depending on the situation. Emergency ambulance and medevac services are available; dial 112 for emergencies. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is recommended.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide