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

Should you visit Arachova or Sibenik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Sibenik, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and bustling town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a authentic, local, and undiscovered town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Arachova or Sibenik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Sibenik are both popular with visitors, Arachova has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arachova is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, and hiking, while Sibenik is known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Arachova is more touristy than Sibenik and is popular for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also home to Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Sibenik is popular for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Arachova different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Sibenik Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Sibenik

Arachova is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Sibenik is not a skiing destination.

Arachova is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Sibenik is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Sibenik

Sibenik is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sibenik can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Sibenik

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Sibenik can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Sibenik has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Arachova or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Sibenik

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Arachova has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Sibenik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Arachova or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Arachova
Sibenik

Sibenik is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Sibenik has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Arachova or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arachova
Sibenik

Sibenik is a town with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Sibenik has a few snorkeling spots. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arachova or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Sibenik

Sibenik is well known for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Sibenik. 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.

Arachova is not a beach destination.


Is Arachova or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Sibenik

Arachova and Sibenik both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Sibenik is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Is Arachova or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Sibenik

Arachova 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 Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Sibenik?

Arachova
Sibenik

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sibenik and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sibenik. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.


Is Arachova or Sibenik Better for Families?

Arachova
Sibenik

Arachova and Sibenik are both great destinations for the whole family.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sibenik is very family-friendly. 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 Arachova or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Arachova
Sibenik

Arachova and Sibenik are both great to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Sibenik is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Arachova or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Sibenik

Sibenik is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


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

Arachova
Sibenik

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Sibenik.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Sibenik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a public bus system that can help you get around the area.

Is Arachova or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Arachova
Sibenik

Sibenik is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Sibenik on foot is easy. The old town is car-free and easily explored on foot.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Sibenik. In our opinion, Sibenik has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sibenik than Arachova. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sibenik than Arachova 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 Arachova or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Arachova or Sibenik?

In Arachova, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Sibenik offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Sibenik?

In Arachova, you'll find museums and skiing. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arachova has to offer.

Sibenik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sibenik, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Sibenik?

Arachova 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.

Sibenik is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Arachova. 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.

Sibenik is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, 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 Arachova and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Arachova 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 Arachova


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: Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sibenik

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Sibenik 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Sibenik

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Sibenik 16

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 Arachova and Sibenik, we can see that Arachova 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 Arachova would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arachova 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 Arachova Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova or Sibenik?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arachova or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Sibenik. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the summer. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Sibenik. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Sibenik for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Arachova is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arachova in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Sibenik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 10°C (51°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Sibenik. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Sibenik. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Sibenik. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the spring. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Arachova

Arachova Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)