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

Should you visit Arles 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 Arles and Sibenik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Arles

Arles is a charming, compact, and quaint town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Arles or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Arles, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and small town charm, while Arles is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. Sibenik is well known for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. Also, Sibenik is famous for Krka National Park.

How is Arles different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Arles
Sibenik

Arles is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Arles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Sibenik offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.


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

Arles
Sibenik

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

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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 Arles or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Arles
Sibenik

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arles and Sibenik.

Arles has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

If you're looking for night time activities Sibenik has a few options to choose from. 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 Arles or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Arles
Sibenik

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

Sibenik has a few great resort options. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.

Arles is not a resort destination.


Is Arles or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arles
Sibenik

Sibenik is a town with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arles 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.

Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arles or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Arles
Sibenik

Sibenik is well known for the beach. However, Arles 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.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Arles or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Arles
Sibenik

Arles 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 Arles is one of the most recognized in the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

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 the Shopping Better in Arles or Sibenik?

Arles
Sibenik

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sibenik and Arles.

Many visitors go to Arles to go shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Sibenik. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Arles or Sibenik Better for Families?

Arles
Sibenik

Sibenik is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Arles or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Arles
Sibenik

Both Arles and Sibenik are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

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 Arles or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arles
Sibenik

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

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

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

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

Arles
Sibenik

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

You'll find some public transit in Arles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

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 Arles or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Arles
Sibenik

Sibenik is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Arles?

How long in Arles or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arles and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sibenik than in Arles. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Arles, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Arles. 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 Arles. 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 Arles 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 Arles or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arles 1-2 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Arles or Sibenik?

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Sibenik, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Arles or Sibenik?

In Arles, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sibenik. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Arles or Sibenik?

Arles 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sibenik. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Arles or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Sibenik. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Arles?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arles is €142, 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 Arles and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arles 71
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arles 142
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Arles and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Arles 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 Arles


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: Arles Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arles 23
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

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 Arles or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Arles 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
    Arles 52
    Sibenik 29
Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    4.50
  • Ice Cream
    1.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arles 31
    Sibenik 12
Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    5.50

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64

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
    Arles 24
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20

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


Which is Bigger, Arles or Sibenik?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Arles 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 Arles 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 Arles or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arles as well as Sibenik. Many visitors come to Arles in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Arles is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arles in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Sibenik averages at about 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 Arles this time of the year. In the summer, Arles often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets more rain in July than Sibenik. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arles 24°C (75°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Arles or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Arles are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Arles is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 16°C (61°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. Arles usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during autumn. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Arles. In October, Arles usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arles 16°C (61°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Arles or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Arles during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Arles because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

Arles is cooler than Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Arles often gets more sunshine than Sibenik. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets less rain in January than Sibenik. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arles 7°C (44°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Arles or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arles and Sibenik. The natural beauty are the main draw to Arles this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Arles is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arles in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arles usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during spring. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arles usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arles 13°C (56°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Arles

Arles Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)