A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Sibenik for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Heraklion or Sibenik?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Heraklion and Sibenik can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a vibrant, accessible, and bustling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Heraklion and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Sibenik are popular destinations, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Sibenik attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Sibenik is famous for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Heraklion different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Sibenik.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Sibenik both to be very good destinations.

Heraklion has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

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 Heraklion or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

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

Heraklion has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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 Heraklion or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Sibenik is a town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion 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.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and Sibenik are considered to be very good beach destinations.

The beaches at Heraklion attract visitors from all over. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

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.

Is Heraklion or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Sibenik is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Sibenik is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Sibenik?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Heraklion and Sibenik.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Many visitors go to Sibenik to go shopping. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Heraklion or Sibenik Better for Families?

Sibenik is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion 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 Heraklion. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

Is Heraklion or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Sibenik are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Heraklion makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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 Heraklion or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Sibenik are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Sibenik is a very popular city 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.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Heraklion and Sibenik.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

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 Heraklion or Sibenik a more walkable city?

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

Heraklion is a very walkable destination. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Sibenik?

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Sibenik?

In Heraklion, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Sibenik. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Sibenik?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Sibenik. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Sibenik?

Heraklion 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local town of Sibenik. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Sibenik?

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

Sibenik is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Sibenik?

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

Both Sibenik and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°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 Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sibenik in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Sibenik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°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, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Sibenik. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Sibenik. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sibenik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Heraklion is a little warmer than Sibenik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Sibenik averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Sibenik. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°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 Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Sibenik. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Heraklion