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

Should you visit Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a coastal, historic, and touristy fishing village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

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 food, beaches, and shopping.

Cefalu and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Cefalu or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sibenik. Although Cefalu and Sibenik are popular destinations, Sibenik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sibenik is very popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Cefalu attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cefalu is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. 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 Cefalu different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cefalu
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sibenik. 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.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.


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

Cefalu
Sibenik

Foodies will find both Cefalu and Sibenik both to be excellent destinations.

Cefalu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

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 Cefalu or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Cefalu or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Cefalu 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 Cefalu to choose from. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

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 Cefalu or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Sibenik is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cefalu or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Cefalu and Sibenik both offer excellent beaches.

Many people visit Cefalu for it's beautiful beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Sibenik is considered a top beach destination. 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 Cefalu or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Cefalu and Sibenik.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place 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 Cefalu or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Cefalu is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Cefalu offers some nice hiking trails. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Sibenik?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

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

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Cefalu or Sibenik Better for Families?

Cefalu
Sibenik

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

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.


Is Cefalu or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Cefalu
Sibenik

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

Cefalu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

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 Cefalu or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

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

Cefalu
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.


Is Cefalu or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Cefalu
Sibenik

Sibenik is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is a very walkable destination. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cefalu and Sibenik. In our opinion, Sibenik has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sibenik than Cefalu. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cefalu, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Cefalu. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sibenik than Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cefalu 1-3 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Cefalu or Sibenik?

Cefalu is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This fishing village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A weekend in Cefalu or Sibenik?

Cefalu might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cefalu has to offer.

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


Five days in Cefalu or Sibenik?

Cefalu is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Cefalu or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. Since Cefalu is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Cefalu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cefalu is €119, 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 Cefalu and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cefalu 87
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cefalu 174
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Cefalu and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Cefalu 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 Cefalu


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: Cefalu Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cefalu 4.29
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

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

  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $174
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $104
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98

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 Cefalu or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Cefalu 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
    Cefalu 28
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

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

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cefalu 5.71
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

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

  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $272
  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $224

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
    Cefalu 11
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Cefalu

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

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49

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


Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the hiking, 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.

In July, Cefalu is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 26°C (79°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 Cefalu. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during summer. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Cefalu during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 19°C (67°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, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sibenik. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cefalu or Sibenik in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Cefalu is a little warmer than Sibenik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cefalu in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Sibenik averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Cefalu or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Sibenik. Many visitors come to Cefalu in the spring for the beaches, 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.

In April, Cefalu is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 15°C (58°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the spring, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in April than Sibenik. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Cefalu

Cefalu Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)