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

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a energetic, lively, and charming town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a local, undiscovered, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Heidelberg and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
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 Heidelberg or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Heidelberg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and small town charm, while Heidelberg is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Sibenik is well known for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. Also, Sibenik is famous for Krka National Park.

How is Heidelberg different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Heidelberg and Sibenik can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Heidelberg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sibenik makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

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

Heidelberg has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

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

Heidelberg is not a resort destination.


Is Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Sibenik is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Heidelberg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Sibenik. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Heidelberg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for the beach. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Is Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is one of the most recognized in the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

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 Heidelberg or Sibenik?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

If you're looking to go shopping, Heidelberg and Sibenik both offer plenty of notable spots.

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Sibenik is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for Families?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sibenik. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Heidelberg and Sibenik both excellent destinations for a couple.

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Sibenik is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

For backpackers, both Heidelberg and Sibenik are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Heidelberg or Sibenik Better for Students?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

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

Plenty of students visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Sibenik is not popular with students.

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

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Heidelberg is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors to Heidelberg can move around easily with public transportation. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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 Heidelberg or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Heidelberg
Sibenik

Sibenik is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Sibenik is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is car-free and easily explored on foot.

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Sibenik?

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

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg. 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.


  • How many days in Heidelberg or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Heidelberg 1-3 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Heidelberg or Sibenik?

In Heidelberg, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the local town of Sibenik, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Sibenik?

In Heidelberg, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Heidelberg has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Sibenik, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Heidelberg or Sibenik?

Heidelberg 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, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Sibenik?

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

Sibenik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Heidelberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Heidelberg is €142, 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 Heidelberg and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heidelberg 93
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heidelberg 186
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Heidelberg and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heidelberg 17
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sibenik

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Heidelberg or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heidelberg 11
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Heidelberg.

  • 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
  • Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $71
  • Amazing Schwetzingen Garden Tour: $238
  • Beer and Old Town Tour: $98
  • Bicycle Tour from Heidelberg to quaint Ladenburg.: $120
  • Culinary city tour in Heidelberg with delicious samples: $43
  • E.Bike Tours around Heidelberg: $153
  • Evening Heidelberg tour with historical night watchman: $17
  • Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $64
  • Fascinating Heidelberg Sightseeing Walking Tour: $217
  • Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg : $131
  • Guided Tour of Student Rabble, Whore Pack and the French War: $373

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
    Heidelberg 17
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295

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


Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Sibenik?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Sibenik. The summer months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of 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 the summer, Heidelberg is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heidelberg in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Sibenik averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In Heidelberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Sibenik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Sibenik. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sibenik for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heidelberg is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 12°C (54°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the autumn, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in October than Sibenik. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Heidelberg. Heidelberg is much colder than Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Sibenik in the Spring?

Both Sibenik and Heidelberg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Heidelberg is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heidelberg in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in April than Sibenik. Heidelberg gets 57 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
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Heidelberg

Heidelberg Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)