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

Should you visit Imperia or Sibenik?

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

Should I visit Imperia 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.

Imperia

Imperia is a authentic, charming, and undiscovered town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. 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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Imperia and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Imperia or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Imperia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. Also, Sibenik is famous for Krka National Park. Imperia is well known for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Imperia different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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 Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Sibenik

Evening events are notable in both Imperia and Sibenik.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sibenik. During the summer months you'll find people filling the terraces and squares at night. There are also a number of festivals in and near town. If you're looking for nightlife, it's best to visit during one of these festivals.

Is Imperia or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Imperia
Sibenik

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

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Imperia or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a moderate town for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Imperia or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is notable for the beach. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Imperia or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

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

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Sibenik?

Imperia
Sibenik

Both Imperia and Sibenik are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Imperia to go shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

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

Is Imperia or Sibenik Better for Families?

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Imperia or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Imperia or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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

Imperia
Sibenik

Both Imperia and Sibenik offer notable public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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

Is Imperia or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Imperia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Sibenik?

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

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

One day in Imperia or Sibenik?

In Imperia, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

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 Imperia or Sibenik?

In Imperia, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Imperia 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 Imperia or Sibenik?

Imperia is a great place to explore. 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 Imperia or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Imperia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Imperia. 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 Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Imperia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, 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 Imperia and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Imperia 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 Imperia


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: Imperia Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Sibenik 13

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 Imperia or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Imperia 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
    Imperia 35
    Sibenik 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Imperia 13
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

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
    Imperia 7.50
    Sibenik 16

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 comparing the travel costs between Imperia and Sibenik, we can see that Imperia is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Imperia Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Imperia or Sibenik?

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Imperia 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 Imperia 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 Imperia or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Imperia during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Imperia is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Imperia in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Sibenik averages at about 26°C (80°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Imperia. In the summer, Imperia often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets less rain in July than Sibenik. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Imperia 25°C (76°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Sibenik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Sibenik. The autumn months attract visitors to Imperia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 19°C (66°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. Imperia usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during autumn. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Imperia usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Imperia 19°C (66°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Sibenik. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Imperia is a little warmer than Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Imperia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets less rain in January than Sibenik. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Imperia 11°C (51°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Sibenik in the Spring?

Both Sibenik and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Imperia for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Imperia is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Imperia in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during spring. Imperia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Imperia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sibenik. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Imperia

Imperia Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)