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

Should you visit Dresden or Sibenik?

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

Should I visit Dresden 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a cultural, park-filled, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. 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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

Dresden and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
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 Dresden or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dresden than Sibenik, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dresden is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Sibenik is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Dresden is more touristy than Sibenik and is popular for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). Also, Dresden is famous for Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Sibenik is well known for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Dresden different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dresden
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.


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

Dresden
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Dresden or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Dresden
Sibenik

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

Dresden has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

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 Dresden or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Dresden
Sibenik

Sibenik is a popular place for its resorts. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a resort destination.


Is Dresden or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dresden
Sibenik

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

Dresden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dresden or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Dresden
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for the beach. However, Dresden is not a beach destination.

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.

Dresden is not a beach destination.

Is Dresden or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Dresden
Sibenik

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both Dresden and Sibenik.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Sibenik. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.


Is the Shopping Better in Dresden or Sibenik?

Dresden
Sibenik

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sibenik and Dresden.

Many visitors go to Dresden to go shopping. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

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

Is Dresden or Sibenik Better for Families?

Dresden
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options 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, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Dresden or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Dresden
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.


Is Dresden or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dresden
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

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

Dresden
Sibenik

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

You'll find some public transit in Dresden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around 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 Dresden or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Dresden
Sibenik

Sibenik is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Dresden 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.

Dresden is very walkable. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Dresden?

How long in Dresden or Sibenik?

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

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

One day in Dresden or Sibenik?

In Dresden, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Dresden or Sibenik?

In Dresden, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dresden has to offer.

In Sibenik, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sibenik has to offer.

Five days in Dresden or Sibenik?

Dresden 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 great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.


A week in Dresden or Sibenik?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sibenik. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sibenik. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Dresden?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dresden is €135, 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 Dresden and Sibenik in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Dresden 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 Dresden


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: Dresden Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dresden 11
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague with 2 hours for sightseeing: $158
  • Private Transfer from Dresden City to Leipzig City: $83
  • One-Way Transfer from Dresden Airport (DRS) to Dresden: $146
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - First Class: $136
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - Business Van: $77

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: $163
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split: $261
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split airport: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Dresden or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Dresden 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
    Dresden 31
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dresden

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dresden.

  • Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $51
  • Winterlights Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $59
  • Dinner-Show "INDUSTRIELLE REVOLUTION": $117

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dresden 9.56
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Dresden

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

  • 2 Hour GDR Walking Tour in Dresden: $44
  • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Dresden: $44
  • 2 day ticket Grand City Tour Hop on Hop off 22 stops: $24
  • 3H Private Walking Tour: Dresden city centre and Old Masters Painting Gallery: $300
  • Astonishing Dresden - Guided Walking Tour: $427
  • Bad Schandau Scooter Tour in Saxon, Switzerland: $52
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden - Hiking Tour: $171
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden- Fantasy Tour: $171
  • Best of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland Day Trip from Dresden- Winter Tour: $171
  • Bicycle tour of Dresden: $32
  • Big Sightseeing Tour in Dresden with Liveguide: $21
  • Big city tour hop on hop off 22 stops: $22

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: $130
  • Sibenik Private Combined Food & Drink and Historical Tour: $151
  • Full-Day Sailing Tour in Šibenik Archipelago: $163
  • The Best of Sibenik Private Walking Tour: $163
  • Private walking tour of Sibenik: $163

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dresden 16
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Dresden

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

  • Dresden Bike Tour with Wine Tasting: $53
  • Radeberger Brewery Tour in German: $57
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401

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: $212
  • From Split or Trogir: Krka National Park & Wine Tasting Tour: $1,069


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dresden and Sibenik, we can see that Dresden 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 Dresden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dresden 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 Dresden Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Dresden or Sibenik?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dresden as well as Sibenik. Most visitors come to Dresden for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dresden is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dresden in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Sibenik averages at about 26°C (80°F).

Dresden usually gets more rain in July than Sibenik. Dresden gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Dresden or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Dresden are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Dresden because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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.

In October, Dresden is generally much colder than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 11°C (51°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dresden 11°C (51°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Dresden or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Dresden during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dresden this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Dresden in the winter. Dresden is much colder than Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in January than Sibenik. Dresden gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dresden 1°C (33°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Dresden or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dresden and Sibenik. Many travelers come to Dresden for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dresden is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dresden in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In April, Dresden usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Dresden gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dresden 10°C (50°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Dresden

Dresden Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)