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

Should you visit Carcassonne or Sibenik?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Carcassonne and Sibenik. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a medieval, historical, and fairytale town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a charming, authentic, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Carcassonne and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Sibenik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sibenik. Although Carcassonne and Sibenik are both popular with visitors, Sibenik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Carcassonne is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Sibenik is popular for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. It is also home to Krka National Park.

How is Carcassonne different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Carcassonne or Sibenik.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Carcassonne. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

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 Carcassonne or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Both Carcassonne and Sibenik offer excellent local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Carcassonne. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

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 Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Carcassonne 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.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.


Is Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Carcassonne 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.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Sibenik for it's beautiful 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.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for its historic old town. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Sibenik. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Many people head to Carcassonne to see the old town. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.


Is the Shopping Better in Carcassonne or Sibenik?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for shopping. However, Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for Families?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Sibenik is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Carcassonne. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

Is Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for romance. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Sibenik makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Carcassonne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a medieval city with an impressive castle and walled fortifications. It's a uniquely European sight that is great for couples who enjoy history.


Is Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Carcassonne and Sibenik are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Carcassonne is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Sibenik is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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 Carcassonne or Sibenik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Visitors will find good public transit in both Carcassonne and Sibenik.

Carcassonne has some public transit options. You can reach the town by train from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux and many people visit the town as a day trip.

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 Carcassonne or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Carcassonne
Sibenik

Carcassonne and Sibenik are terrific when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Carcassonne. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Sibenik?

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

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

One day in Carcassonne or Sibenik?

In Carcassonne, you'll find food and 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic town of Sibenik. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Carcassonne or Sibenik?

In Carcassonne, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carcassonne has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Sibenik. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Carcassonne or Sibenik?

Carcassonne is a great place to explore. 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.

The local town of Sibenik offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Carcassonne or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carcassonne. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Carcassonne. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sibenik. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Historical 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 Carcassonne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Carcassonne is €106, 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 Carcassonne and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carcassonne 61
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carcassonne 122
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Carcassonne and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne


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: Carcassonne Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carcassonne 7.14
    Sibenik 13

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 Carcassonne or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Carcassonne 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
    Carcassonne 39
    Sibenik 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Carcassonne 14
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Carcassonne

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

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica: $20
  • Best of Cathar Country: Full-Day Private Tour.: $207
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour : $201
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Fortress Walking Tour: $171
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Photoshoot Experience: $160
  • Private Walking Tour with Cité de Carcassonne: $187

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
    Carcassonne 13
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471

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 comparing the travel costs between Carcassonne and Sibenik, we can see that Carcassonne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Sibenik?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the summer. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, 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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Carcassonne or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Carcassonne during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sibenik for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Carcassonne in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Sibenik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Carcassonne gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets more rain in October than Sibenik. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Sibenik. Many travelers come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sibenik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Carcassonne is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 8°C (47°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Carcassonne gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Carcassonne or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Sibenik. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the spring. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the spring, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets less rain in April than Sibenik. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Carcassonne

Carcassonne Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)