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

Should you visit Messina 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 Messina 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.

Messina

Messina is a historic, bustling, and local port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a authentic, local, and undiscovered town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Messina and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Sibenik?

Both Sibenik and Messina have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Messina is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Sibenik is known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Messina is popular for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. Sibenik is popular for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Messina different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sibenik is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Messina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

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

Sibenik is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sibenik makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

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

Messina has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

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 Messina or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

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

Messina is not a resort destination.

Is Messina or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sibenik is a town with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Messina or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Sibenik is well known for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

The beaches at Sibenik attract visitors from all over. 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.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Is Messina or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Sibenik is well known for its historic old town. However, Messina 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.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Sibenik?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sibenik and Messina.

Messina is a great destination for shopping. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sibenik. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Messina or Sibenik Better for Families?

Both Messina and Sibenik are very good to visit with kids.

Messina is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

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 Messina or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Sibenik is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Messina or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sibenik is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Messina or Sibenik Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

Sibenik is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Messina and Sibenik.

You'll find some public transit in Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

While Sibenik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a public bus system that can help you get around the area.

Is Messina or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Sibenik is renowned for its walkability. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Messina is a very walkable port city. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Messina?

How long in Messina or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Messina and Sibenik. In our opinion, Sibenik has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sibenik than Messina. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Messina. 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 Messina. 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 Messina 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 Messina or Sibenik?

In Messina, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Messina or Sibenik?

In Messina, 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 Messina 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 Messina or Sibenik?

Messina 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 Messina or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Messina. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Messina. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, 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 Messina and Sibenik, we can see that Messina 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 Messina would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Messina 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 Messina Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Messina or Sibenik?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Messina 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 Messina 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 Messina or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Messina as well as Sibenik. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Messina is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the summer. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Messina this time of the year. In the summer, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets less rain in July than Sibenik. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Messina is a little warmer than Sibenik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Messina in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Sibenik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. Messina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during autumn. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Messina. In October, Messina usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Messina or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Messina during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Messina 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 January, Messina is generally a little warmer than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 13°C (55°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Messina often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually gets more rain in January than Sibenik. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Sibenik. Most visitors come to Messina for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Messina is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the spring. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Messina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during spring. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Messina usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Messina