A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Biarritz vs. Sibenik for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Biarritz or Sibenik?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Sibenik? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a charming, authentic, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Biarritz or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sibenik. Although Biarritz and Sibenik are popular destinations, Sibenik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sibenik is very popular for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Biarritz is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Sibenik is famous for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. It is also well known for Krka National Park.

How is Biarritz different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Biarritz
Sibenik

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.


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

Biarritz
Sibenik

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Biarritz and Sibenik.

Biarritz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Dining out in Sibenik is an experience not to be missed. 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 Biarritz or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz
Sibenik

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

Biarritz has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow 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 Biarritz or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Biarritz
Sibenik

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Biarritz to choose from. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

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.


Is Biarritz or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Biarritz
Sibenik

Sibenik is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Sibenik. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Biarritz or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Biarritz
Sibenik

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Biarritz and Sibenik are superb choices.

Biarritz is considered a top beach destination. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

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.

Is Biarritz or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Biarritz
Sibenik

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

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

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Sibenik?

Biarritz
Sibenik

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Biarritz. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

Sibenik offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Biarritz or Sibenik Better for Families?

Biarritz
Sibenik

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Biarritz or Sibenik.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Biarritz is very family-friendly. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

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 Biarritz or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Biarritz
Sibenik

With fun activities for couples, both Biarritz and Sibenik make for a superb place to visit.

Biarritz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

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 Biarritz or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz
Sibenik

Biarritz and Sibenik are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Sibenik is a very popular seaside 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.

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

Biarritz
Sibenik

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Biarritz and Sibenik.

Biarritz has some public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

You'll find some public transit in Sibenik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a public bus system that can help you get around the area.

Is Biarritz or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Biarritz
Sibenik

Sibenik is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Sibenik. The old town is car-free and easily explored on foot.

Biarritz is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Biarritz and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Sibenik. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Biarritz. 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 Biarritz. 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 Biarritz 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 Biarritz or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Biarritz 3-7 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Biarritz or Sibenik?

In Biarritz, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside 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 Biarritz or Sibenik?

In Biarritz, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Biarritz or Sibenik?

Biarritz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Biarritz has to offer. 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 Biarritz or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. In Biarritz, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Contiki 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 Biarritz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Biarritz is €131, 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 Biarritz and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Biarritz 74
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Biarritz 148
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Biarritz and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Biarritz 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 Biarritz


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: Biarritz Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Biarritz 39
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

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

  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70
  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749
  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sibenik

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Biarritz or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Biarritz 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
    Biarritz 34
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Biarritz

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

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Biarritz 16
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

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

  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Bayonne Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $279
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Biarritz, Bayonne, and Basque Country: Private Driving Tour: $957
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: $187
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • French Basque Country Coastline tour in a 70'sVW Van: $457
  • French Basque Country Private Day Tour in an 70's VW Combi: $599

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
    Biarritz 8.05
    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 Biarritz and Sibenik, we can see that Biarritz 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 Biarritz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Biarritz 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 Biarritz Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz 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 Biarritz 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 Biarritz or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Biarritz is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 20°C (68°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Biarritz during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

Biarritz is cooler than Sibenik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually gets more rain in October than Sibenik. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Sibenik. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Biarritz is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Biarritz in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Sibenik averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Sibenik. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Biarritz is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 12°C (54°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the spring, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the spring. Biarritz usually gets more rain in April than Sibenik. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Biarritz

Biarritz Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)