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

Should you visit Girona 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 Girona 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.

Girona

Girona is a ancient, charming, and beautiful city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a undiscovered, charming, and authentic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Girona and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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 Girona or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sibenik. Although Girona and Sibenik are popular destinations, Sibenik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sibenik is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Girona attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Girona is famous for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine. 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 Girona different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Girona
Sibenik

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Girona and Sibenik.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Girona. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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 Girona or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Girona
Sibenik

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Girona. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Sibenik has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Girona or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Girona
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Girona or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Girona
Sibenik

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

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.

Girona is not a resort destination.


Is Girona or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Girona
Sibenik

Sibenik is a moderate town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Girona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Sibenik. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Girona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Girona or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Girona
Sibenik

Sibenik is a well-known place for the beache. However, Girona 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.

Girona is not a beach destination.

Is Girona or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Girona
Sibenik

Girona is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The old town of Girona is one of the most recognized in the world. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

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


Is the Shopping Better in Girona or Sibenik?

Girona
Sibenik

Girona 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 Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

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

Is Girona or Sibenik Better for Families?

Girona
Sibenik

Sibenik is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Sibenik is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Girona or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Girona
Sibenik

Girona and Sibenik both excellent destinations for a couple.

Girona is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

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.


Is Girona or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Girona
Sibenik

Sibenik is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Girona or Sibenik Better for Students?

Girona
Sibenik

Girona is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Sibenik is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Sibenik is not popular with students.

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

Girona
Sibenik

Both Girona and Sibenik offer nice public transit options.

Girona has a few public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

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


Is Girona or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Girona
Sibenik

Girona and Sibenik both are terrific when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Girona on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Girona?

How long in Girona or Sibenik?

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

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

One day in Girona or Sibenik?

In Girona, you'll find museums 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.

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 Girona or Sibenik?

In Girona, 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 Girona 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 Girona or Sibenik?

Girona 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.

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 Girona or Sibenik?

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

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Girona?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Girona is €140, 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 Girona and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Girona 69
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Girona 138
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Girona and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Girona 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 Girona


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: Girona Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Girona 49
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Transfer from Barcelona to girona Airport: $196
  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $262
  • Palamós to Girona Airport (GRO) - Departure Private Transfer : $33
  • Palamós to Barcelona Airport (BNC) Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21
  • Girona Airport (GRO) to Costa Brava - Round-Trip 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
  • Airport transfer from Split to Šibenik or vice versa: $164
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Girona or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Girona 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
    Girona 41
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Girona

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

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Girona 24
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Girona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Girona are as follows:

  • 2h Guided Kayak Tour on the Costa Brava: $44
  • Basic Dali Experience & Costa Brava from Girona or Palamos: $196
  • Cadaqués & Dalí House-Museum day trip from Girona (tickets included): $158
  • Dalí Museum and Costa Brava Small Group Tour from Girona: $152
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Entrance ticket to the Girona Art Museum: $6.54
  • Fábrica-Museo de Anchoas Solés Ticket: $7.74
  • From Dalí Museum and Girona Small Group Tour: $149
  • From Dalí Museum, Cadaqués and Creus Cape Tour: $149
  • Girona - Private Historic Walking Tour: $374
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11

Tours and Activities in Sibenik

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

  • Discover Šibenik - Evening walking tour : $38
  • Daily or night walking tour through Medieval Šibenik: $45
  • Private Sibenik Walking Historical Morning or Evening Tour: $49
  • Via Ferrata tour - Čikola Canyon: $74
  • Krka Waterfalls National Park Boat Tour from Vodice: $76
  • Kornati island National Park & Telascica Nature Park Boat Tour from Vodice: $76
  • Šibenik Riviera boat tour: Zlarin + Prvić + Tijat: $120
  • Kornati Experience small group (12 pax) boat tour: $137
  • Sibenik Private Combined Food & Drink and Historical Tour: $152
  • Full-Day Sailing Tour in Šibenik Archipelago: $164
  • The Best of Sibenik Private Walking Tour: $164
  • Private walking tour of Sibenik: $164

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Girona 9.69
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Girona

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

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $82
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $149

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


Which is Bigger, Girona or Sibenik?

Girona has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Girona 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 Girona 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 Girona or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Girona during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Girona because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

In July, Girona is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 24°C (75°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Girona. In the summer, Girona often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Girona gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets more rain in July than Sibenik. Girona gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Girona or Sibenik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Girona and Sibenik. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Girona 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.

Girona is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. Girona usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during autumn. Girona gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Girona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sibenik. Girona gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Girona or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Girona as well as Sibenik. Many travelers come to Girona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Sibenik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Girona is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Girona in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Sibenik averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Girona often gets more sunshine than Sibenik. Girona gets 148 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets less rain in January than Sibenik. Girona gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Girona 8°C (46°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Girona or Sibenik in the Spring?

Both Sibenik and Girona are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Girona in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Girona is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 13°C (55°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. Girona usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during spring. Girona gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Girona usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Girona gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Girona 13°C (55°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Girona

Girona Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)