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

Should you visit Istanbul or Sibenik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Sibenik, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a diverse, beautiful, and high-energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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 gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Istanbul and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Sibenik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Sibenik are both popular with visitors, Istanbul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sibenik is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Sibenik and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Sibenik is popular for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Istanbul different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Istanbul from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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 Istanbul or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Istanbul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sibenik. 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 Istanbul or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

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

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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 Istanbul or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Sibenik is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Sibenik has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Istanbul or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sibenik is a moderate town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Istanbul 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.

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Istanbul or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Sibenik is notable for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Sibenik. 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.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul is one of the most recognized in the world. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

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 Istanbul or Sibenik?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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

Is Istanbul or Sibenik Better for Families?

Istanbul and Sibenik are both great destinations for the whole family.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

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.

Is Istanbul or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Sibenik are both great to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the 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 Istanbul or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Istanbul. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

Sibenik is a great city 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.

Is Istanbul or Sibenik Better for Students?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Sibenik is not popular with students.

Many students visit Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Sibenik is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Istanbul has a great public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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 Istanbul or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Sibenik is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Sibenik. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Istanbul. 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 Istanbul than Sibenik. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Istanbul that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Sibenik 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 Istanbul.

One day in Istanbul or Sibenik?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Sibenik offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Sibenik?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Sibenik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sibenik, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Sibenik?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Sibenik is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Sibenik is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, 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 Istanbul and Sibenik, we can see that Istanbul 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 Istanbul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Istanbul 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 Istanbul Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Sibenik?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is cooler than Sibenik in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Sibenik. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Sibenik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Sibenik. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Sibenik for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Istanbul is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Sibenik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Sibenik. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Istanbul is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Sibenik. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Sibenik in the Spring?

Both Sibenik and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

Istanbul is cooler than Sibenik in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Istanbul