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

Should you visit La Rochelle or Sibenik?

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

Should I visit La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a relaxing, laid-back, and quaint coastal town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a local, undiscovered, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

La Rochelle and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
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 La Rochelle or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Rochelle. Although La Rochelle and Sibenik are popular destinations, La Rochelle has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Rochelle is very popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm, while Sibenik attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. La Rochelle is famous for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for The Old Port. Sibenik is famous for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is La Rochelle different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Rochelle or Sibenik?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

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

La Rochelle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

Many visitors head to Sibenik specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 La Rochelle or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

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

Eat your way through La Rochelle, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

The vibe at night is nice in both La Rochelle and Sibenik.

If you're looking for night time activities La Rochelle has a few options to choose from. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

Sibenik is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is not a resort destination.


Is La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

Sibenik is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for the beache. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the 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.

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Is La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

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 La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

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

La Rochelle offers some nice hiking trails. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Rochelle or Sibenik?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

If you're looking to go shopping, La Rochelle and Sibenik both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting La Rochelle. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

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

Is La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Families?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

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

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.


Is La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Couples?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

La Rochelle is renowned for romance. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

La Rochelle is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is La Rochelle or Sibenik Better for Students?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

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

Plenty of students visit La Rochelle. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Sibenik is not popular with students.


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

La Rochelle
Sibenik

La Rochelle and Sibenik both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

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

Is La Rochelle or Sibenik a more walkable city?

La Rochelle
Sibenik

Sibenik is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its ease of walking around.

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

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or La Rochelle?

How long in La Rochelle or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Rochelle and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Rochelle than in Sibenik. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Rochelle, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sibenik than La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Rochelle 2-4 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in La Rochelle or Sibenik?

La Rochelle is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic town of Sibenik. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in La Rochelle or Sibenik?

La Rochelle might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Rochelle has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the local destination of Sibenik. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in La Rochelle or Sibenik?

La Rochelle 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.

The authentic town of Sibenik offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in La Rochelle or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. Since La Rochelle is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sibenik. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or La Rochelle?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in La Rochelle is €114, 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 La Rochelle and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Rochelle 67
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Rochelle 134
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in La Rochelle and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle


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: La Rochelle Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Rochelle

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

  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Port to Nantes Airport (NTE): $88
  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Cruise Port to Nantes Hotels: $88

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 La Rochelle or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and La Rochelle 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
    La Rochelle 34
    Sibenik 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Rochelle 13
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in La Rochelle

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

  • 3 Hour La Rochelle Private Tour: $90
  • 1.5 Hour Guided Tour in Poitiers: $98
  • Discover Discovery Walking Tour of La Rochelle: $44
  • Guided tour of La Rochelle The splendor of merchants in the 18th century: $22
  • La Rochelle "The Heritage" Segway Tour - 1h30: $59
  • La Rochelle : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • La Rochelle : Private Custom Private Walking Tour With a local: $60
  • La Rochelle : Private Custom Walking Tour With a Local Guide: $50
  • La Rochelle Grand Format Segway Tour: $87
  • La Rochelle Heritage Segway Tour: $60
  • La Rochelle Lighthouse at the end of the world Segway Tour: $44
  • La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour: $44

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
    La Rochelle 16
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between La Rochelle and Sibenik, we can see that La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Rochelle or Sibenik?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both La Rochelle and Sibenik. Most visitors come to La Rochelle for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and 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 July, La Rochelle is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in La Rochelle average around 20°C (67°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In La Rochelle, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. La Rochelle gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, La Rochelle usually receives more rain than Sibenik. La Rochelle gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Rochelle 20°C (67°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit La Rochelle or Sibenik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to La Rochelle as well as Sibenik. The autumn months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. 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.

La Rochelle is cooler than Sibenik in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the autumn, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. La Rochelle gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets less rain in October than Sibenik. La Rochelle gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Rochelle 15°C (59°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit La Rochelle or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and La Rochelle are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, La Rochelle is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Rochelle in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Sibenik averages at about 8°C (47°F).

La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. La Rochelle gets 72 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, La Rochelle usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sibenik. La Rochelle gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Rochelle 7°C (44°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit La Rochelle or Sibenik in the Spring?

Both Sibenik and La Rochelle during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sibenik in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, La Rochelle is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in La Rochelle average around 11°C (52°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. La Rochelle gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets less rain in April than Sibenik. La Rochelle gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Rochelle 11°C (52°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and La Rochelle

La Rochelle Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (67°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 10°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)