A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kos vs. Sibenik for Attractions, Food, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Kos 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 Kos 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.

Kos

Kos is a cultural, party-hard, and vibrant island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a charming, authentic, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Kos and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kos or Sibenik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kos. Although Kos and Sibenik are both popular with visitors, Kos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kos is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sibenik is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Kos is popular for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water. It is also home to Asklepieion Archeological Site. Sibenik is popular for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Kos different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kos 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 Kos from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The small island is packed with archaeological sites and interesting history. Famous places worth visiting include the ruins of Asklepion, the ancient Agora, Roman Odeon, Neratzia Castle, and so many more!

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 Kos or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Kos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The cuisine relies heavily on locally harvested ingredients with many dishes featuring cheese, seafood, vegetables, olive oil, and potatoes. The dishes are influenced by Italian and Turkish cuisines and common dishes include moussaka, souvlaki and tzatziki. Popular seafood options are prawns, squid, lobster and octopus. A great way to enjoy a sampling of local dishes is to visit an ouzeri, which is a Greek taverna that serves mezza style meals with small dishes that you can share.

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 Kos or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

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

Kos has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. For such a small island you'll find a huge party scene during the peak summer months. There are almost nightly parties, beach raves, and late night clubs throughout the summer months. The bars and clubs are mostly concentrated around a couple of streets in the center of Kos Town, but Kardamena is also a lively party area. It's popular with British tourists who head here for the all-night clubs.

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 Kos or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Kos and Sibenik have good options.

Kos has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's a smaller island and there aren't as many resorts here as there are on some of the larger Greek islands. Some of the best resort areas include Lamp and Psalidi to the northwest, Tigaki on the west coast (a good option for families), as well as Mastihari and Marmari which both have relaxed atmospheres. The younger crowd often hangs out around Kardemena on the east coast.

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.

Is Kos or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kos is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sibenik is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Kos. There are countless snorkeling sports around the island where you can immerse yourself in the undersea world. Popular snorkeling areas include Camel Beach and Limnionas Beach. Make sure you understand the water conditions before heading into the water.

Sibenik has a few snorkeling spots. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Is Kos or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Kos is renowned for its beaches. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beache.

Kos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches, many of which are sandy with various shades of color. There are touristy beaches with plenty of amenities as well as less frequented beaches that offer a quieter and more remote atmosphere. Some of the most visited beaches on the island include Agios Stefanos, Kardamena, Kefalos and Lambi while some of the more peaceful areas are Cavo Paradiso and Helona Beach.

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.

Is Kos or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Kos 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.

Kos does not have a historic old town.

Is Kos or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

Kos is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Kos offers some nice hiking trails. This is a great walking island with a number of easy walks or hikes that take you along the coastline or through interesting landscapes.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kos or Sibenik?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Kos and Sibenik.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Kos. There are a number of traditional items that you can pick up while you're in town. Fun souvenirs include jewelry, leather items, and perfumes.

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

Is Kos or Sibenik Better for Families?

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Sibenik is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Kos. It's comparable to other Greek islands when it comes to kids' activities. Kos Town can get a bit lively at night so if you want to avoid the party crowds, then those areas are easily avoided. Popular activities include exploring ancient ruins, going to the Kos Archaeological Museum, visiting The Castle of the Knights, and of course, hanging out at the beach. One of the best family-friendly resort areas is Tigaki along the west coast.

Is Kos or Sibenik Better for Couples?

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

Kos makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This small island offers beautiful beaches and plenty of ancient ruins to explore. Kos Town is where you'll find the liveliest atmosphere but for some of the best resorts you'll want to stay in one of the resort suburbs like Lampi or Psalidi.

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 Kos or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kos and Sibenik are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Kos is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a small island but has a few hostels and a variety of apartments available for rent. Despite its small size, there are areas where you'll want to have a car if you wish to explore, but if you stay in town you'll find getting around fairly easy. The island attracts its share of young travelers and you'll find plenty of people to hang out with.

Sibenik is a great island 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 Kos or Sibenik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kos 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 Kos can move around easily with public transportation. Buses connect many of the tourist destinations including beaches, cultural sights, are resort areas.

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 Kos or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Sibenik is very popular for its walkability. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Kos is a very walkable island. It's small size means it's possible to explore parts of the island on foot or bicycle. There are some beautiful walks on the island, but some areas will require a car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Kos?

How long in Kos or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kos and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kos than in Sibenik. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Kos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kos 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 Kos.

One day in Kos or Sibenik?

In Kos, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With nightlife and food around the undiscovered destination of Sibenik, there's plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Kos or Sibenik?

In Kos, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Kos has to offer.

Many people visit Sibenik for a weekend. With food and shopping around the local town of Sibenik, there's plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Kos or Sibenik?

Kos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The destination of Sibenik offers shopping and museums. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. 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.

A week in Kos or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Kos. 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, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Athens, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 Kos and Sibenik, we can see that Kos 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 Kos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kos 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 Kos Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kos or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of Kos. When comparing the sizes of Kos 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.