A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Sibenik for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Annecy or Sibenik?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Sibenik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a local, undiscovered, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Annecy and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Annecy or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Annecy and Sibenik are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is very popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Sibenik attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Annecy is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Sibenik is famous for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Annecy different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sibenik and Annecy. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Annecy or Sibenik?

Annecy
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Sibenik specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Despite being skipped by many international tourists, the town has a number of historical landmarks such as Sibenik Cathedral, St. Michael's Fortress, and the fascinating the Dalmatian Ethno Village.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.


Is the Food Better in Annecy or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy
Sibenik

Annecy is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Annecy, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sibenik. The restaurants are local and delicious. The old town has cafes that spill into the squares, so dining is a truly delightful experience. This is a hidden gem on the Adriatic.

Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Annecy
Sibenik

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Annecy and Sibenik.

If you're looking for night time activities Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sibenik. During the summer months you'll find people filling the terraces and squares at night. There are also a number of festivals in and near town. If you're looking for nightlife, it's best to visit during one of these festivals.

Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Annecy
Sibenik

Sibenik is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Annecy is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Sibenik makes a nice vacation spot. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.

Annecy is not a resort destination.


Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Annecy
Sibenik

Sibenik is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Sibenik. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Annecy
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

Sibenik is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are less crowded than those in the more popular nearby cities, but they are gaining popularity. In town, Banj Beach is a pebbly beach that is easy to access. Nearby Jadrija Beach is considered to be one of the most photogenic in the area and St. Nicholas Beach is one of the more remote.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Annecy
Sibenik

Annecy is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The old town of Annecy is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Sibenik. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.


Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

Annecy
Sibenik

Annecy is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Annecy. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Sibenik?

Annecy
Sibenik

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and Sibenik both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Many visitors go to Sibenik to go shopping. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Families?

Annecy
Sibenik

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Annecy or Sibenik.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Sibenik is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It has grown into a popular summer resort destination. There are many outdoor activities in the area including kayaking, swimming, and boating. You should also take a day trip to Krka National Park to see the waterfalls. There are also some good beaches where families can hang out.


Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Annecy
Sibenik

Annecy is renowned for romance. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Annecy is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Couples visit Sibenik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The town is charming and filled with historic sights. There are also beaches and adventure sports for those looking for an adrenaline-filled vacation.

Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Sibenik. The town has a large number of hostels to choose from, making this an easy and convenient stop off for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Annecy or Sibenik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Annecy
Sibenik

Annecy and Sibenik both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Sibenik has a few public transit options. There is a public bus system that can help you get around the area.


Is Annecy or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Annecy
Sibenik

Sibenik is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its ease of walking around.

Sibenik is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is car-free and easily explored on foot.

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Annecy Worth Visiting? and Is Sibenik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Annecy and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Annecy than in Sibenik. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Annecy. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Sibenik, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Annecy than Sibenik. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Annecy that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sibenik than Annecy if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Sibenik.


  • How many days in Annecy or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Annecy 2-4 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Annecy or Sibenik?

Annecy is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This alpine town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sibenik. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Annecy or Sibenik?

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Annecy has to offer.

Sibenik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Annecy or Sibenik?

Annecy is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sibenik. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Since Annecy is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the local destination of Sibenik. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Annecy?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Annecy is €178, while the average daily cost in Sibenik is €93. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Annecy and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Annecy 92
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Annecy 184
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Annecy and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Annecy or Sibenik? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Annecy


Hotels in Sibenik


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Annecy Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Annecy 37
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

Also for Annecy, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $295
  • Lyon : Luxury private transfer to Annecy in Van: $374

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sibenik

Also for Sibenik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split: $262
  • Airport transfer from Split to Šibenik or vice versa: $164
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split airport: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Annecy or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Annecy change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Annecy 58
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Annecy

For Annecy, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide: $148
  • Private Market Tour and Modern French Cooking and Meal with a Local in Annecy: $188
  • Private Walking Food Tour: $348

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Annecy 41
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Annecy

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Annecy.

  • ANNECY | Private Walking Tour of Annecy's Historical Center: $191
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $334
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Tours and Activities in Sibenik

For Sibenik, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kornati island National Park & Telascica Nature Park Boat Tour from Vodice: $76
  • Šibenik Riviera boat tour: Zlarin + Prvić + Tijat: $120
  • Daily or night walking tour through Medieval Šibenik: $45
  • Discover Šibenik - Evening walking tour : $38
  • Full-Day Sailing Tour in Šibenik Archipelago: $164
  • Kornati Experience small group (12 pax) boat tour: $137
  • Krka Waterfalls National Park Boat Tour from Vodice: $76
  • Private Sibenik Walking Historical Morning or Evening Tour: $49
  • Private walking tour of Sibenik: $164
  • Sibenik Private Combined Food & Drink and Historical Tour: $152
  • The Best of Sibenik Private Walking Tour: $164
  • Via Ferrata tour - Čikola Canyon: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Annecy 34
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Annecy

Also in Annecy, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver: $850

Sample the Local Flavors in Sibenik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Sibenik:

  • Vinoplod Winery - Wine Tasting Tour: $29
  • Private Krka Waterfalls Tour with Wine Tasting from Sibenik: $213
  • From Split or Trogir: Krka National Park & Wine Tasting Tour: $1,069


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Sibenik, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Sibenik much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sibenik would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sibenik and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Sibenik.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Annecy Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Annecy or Sibenik?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Sibenik, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Annecy or Sibenik?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Annecy or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Sibenik. Many visitors come to Annecy in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Annecy is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 22°C (71°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Annecy usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Annecy 22°C (71°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Sibenik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Sibenik. Most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Annecy is cooler than Sibenik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the autumn, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sibenik. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Annecy 14°C (56°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Annecy because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

The weather in Annecy can be very cold. In the winter, Annecy is much colder than Sibenik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Annecy in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Sibenik averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Annecy usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Annecy 4°C (39°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Sibenik in the Spring?

Both Sibenik and Annecy during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Annecy is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 11°C (53°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Sibenik. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Annecy 11°C (53°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Annecy

Annecy Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)