This small Dalmatian town near Krka National Park dates back to ancient times. Its stone buildings line narrow streets leading to a 13th-century fortress overlooking the Krka River.
Skradin, a town of 500 residents along the Krka River in Croatia, welcomes visitors with its stone houses and marina filled with local boats and visiting yachts. From its waterfront, you can take a boat to Krka National Park's waterfalls, swim at the riverside beach, or climb to medieval fortress ruins. In local restaurants, chefs prepare the famous Skradin risotto, which takes 24 hours to cook.
Getting to Krka National Park from Skradin
The boat ride from Skradin's pier to Krka National Park takes 25 minutes, with departures every hour during peak season. Buy your tickets at the National Park office near the marina. The boat journey comes included in your park entrance fee, taking you through a deep river valley between limestone cliffs.
Walking Through Skradin's Old Town
The town's streets branch out in a V-shape around a central hill, with lanes just wide enough for three people to walk side by side. Stop at small stands where locals sell fresh figs, almonds, and žižula, a small fruit rich in vitamin C. Look for the 1872 clock tower next to the Church of St. Spiridon. Inside the 18th-century Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, you can see one of Croatia's most significant pipe organs.
Food and Wine
Chefs prepare Skradin risotto (Skradinski rizot) over 24 hours, stirring meat and rice continuously. Try the traditional Skradin cake (Skradinska torta) made with local honey, walnuts, and almonds. Restaurants serve Croatian wines from nearby vineyards alongside fresh seafood and slow-cooked dishes.
Best Times to Visit
Many visitors arrive in summer for day trips to Krka National Park. Visit in May-June or September-October for warm weather with fewer crowds. From November to April, the marina holds fewer boats, and you'll see more of daily local life in the streets.
Swimming and River Activities
Cool off at Skradin Beach along the river. Walk or cycle the 3.4-kilometer trail connecting Skradin Bridge to Skradinski Buk waterfall. A 10-minute uphill walk leads to the fortress ruins, with views across the river valley.
Town History
Romans built their settlement Scardona here in 33 BC, using the location as a trading port. The Šubić family ruled from Skradin in the 13th and 14th centuries, building the Turina fortress. Look for architectural details from Ottoman and Venetian periods in the town's buildings and streets.
