Things To Do
in Šipan

Šipan is the largest island in the Elaphiti archipelago, located just off the coast of Dubrovnik, Croatia. Known for its lush greenery, olive groves, and tranquil beaches, the island offers a serene escape from bustling tourist spots. The charming village of Šipan features traditional stone houses and picturesque harbors that reflect the island's rich history.

Visitors can explore its natural beauty through various outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Island
morning
:

Start your day with a breakfast at a local café, then take a leisurely stroll along the coastal paths to explore the scenic views of the Adriatic Sea.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical sites such as the Church of St. Stephen and the ruins of the old Franciscan monastery. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the island’s beautiful beaches.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant, followed by a sunset walk along the waterfront to enjoy the serene atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

After breakfast, rent a bike to explore the island's countryside, stopping at olive groves and vineyards.

afternoon
:

Take a guided kayaking tour around the island to discover hidden coves and snorkeling spots.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a tavern that serves traditional Dalmatian dishes, then unwind with a drink at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$20
🏺Local wine bottle$15
🚕Taxi ride (5km)$10
🛒Groceries (per week)$50
🏨Hotel (per night)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Great for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Higher prices during the peak tourist season.
  • Some restaurants may have limited operating hours in the off-season.
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Gdje je toalet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Laku noć" - Good night

Places to Visit in Šipan

Visit one of these nice places.

Sipan Harbor

A picturesque harbor surrounded by traditional stone buildings and lush greenery, ideal for capturing sunset views.

Olive Groves

Vast fields of olive trees create a stunning backdrop, especially during the golden hour.

Church of St. Stephen

This historic church offers beautiful architecture and views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Šipan

Šipan offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. Fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional recipes come together to create memorable dining experiences.

Šipan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled Fish

Freshly caught fish grilled to perfection, often seasoned with local herbs and served with a side of vegetables.

Must-Try!

Peka

A traditional dish made with meat and vegetables slow-cooked under a metal bell, resulting in tender flavors.

Olive Oil

Locally produced olive oil is a staple, often drizzled over dishes or served with bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Šipan Farmers' Market

A small market offering fresh produce, homemade olive oils, and local cheeses, perfect for sampling the island's flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Šipan enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures average around 30°C (86°F), while winter sees averages around 10°C (50°F). The island experiences the most rainfall in late autumn and winter, with dry and sunny weather dominating the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is the common form of greeting; when meeting someone for the first time, maintain eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat and to keep your hands on the table (but not elbows).

Dress Code

Casual attire is acceptable, but wearing swimwear outside of beach areas is frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Šipan is generally a safe destination, with low crime rates. Visitors should still take normal precautions, such as securing valuables and being aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.

Tipping in Šipan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in Croatia, with a standard of around 10-15% in restaurants. It's appreciated but not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but having cash is advisable for local markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling with tourists, perfect for beach days and outdoor dining, but expect higher prices and crowded spots.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for hiking and enjoying the local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter is quiet and calm, with cool temperatures; some restaurants may close, but it's a perfect time for solitude and reflection.

Nightlife Guide

Šipan at Night

Šipan's nightlife is relaxed and low-key, focusing on intimate bars and local taverns. Most nightlife activities center around dining and enjoying a drink, often accompanied by live music during peak seasons. There are no large clubs, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet evening under the stars.

Hiking in Šipan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sipan Trail

A moderate hiking trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and takes you through lush forests and olive groves.

Mount Ploče

This trail leads to the highest point on the island, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and sea.

Airports

How to reach Šipan by plane.

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)

Located approximately 30 km from Šipan, Dubrovnik Airport is the main international gateway, offering flights to numerous destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Šipan is quite walkable, especially in the main village area where most attractions are concentrated. The island's paths are well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require moderate hiking due to the terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The island's population consists mainly of Croatian locals who engage in fishing, agriculture, and tourism-related activities.

Tourists

During the tourist season, visitors from various countries come to enjoy the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport among locals, with many informal games played in the village and local teams participating in regional leagues.

Water Sports

Water sports like sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling are popular activities, taking advantage of the island's beautiful coastal waters.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic on Šipan is minimal, with few cars on the island. The primary modes of transport are walking, biking, and boats for inter-island travel. Public transportation options are limited, but ferries connect Šipan to Dubrovnik and other nearby islands regularly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Šipan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as grilled vegetables and pasta.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, especially in restaurants that cater to dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services on Šipan are limited, with a small clinic available for minor health issues. For more serious conditions, travelers may need to go to Dubrovnik, which is accessible by ferry. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide