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

Should you visit Montpellier or Sibenik?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Montpellier and Sibenik. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a vibrant, bustling, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

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 offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Montpellier and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
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 Montpellier or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Montpellier, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and small town charm, while Montpellier is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Montpellier is well known for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. Sibenik is well known for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. Also, Sibenik is famous for Krka National Park.

How is Montpellier different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montpellier
Sibenik

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Montpellier or Sibenik.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Montpellier. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

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 Montpellier or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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 Montpellier. The dishes are made with fresh ingredients produced in the agricultural areas just outside of town. The area is known for its seafood and fish stews.

Is Montpellier or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Montpellier
Sibenik

It's hard to distinguish whether Montpellier or Sibenik has a better nightlife scene.

Montpellier has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The weather is mild, making for a nice evening out. The population is also young, so you can expect a lot of activity during the evenings, particularly in the area around Place Jean Jaurés. Make sure you enjoy local wine and champagne while you're in town.

If you're looking for night time activities Sibenik has a few options to choose from. 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 Montpellier or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for its resorts. However, Montpellier 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.

Montpellier is not a resort destination.


Is Montpellier or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Sibenik is a town with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montpellier 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.

Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Montpellier or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Montpellier and Sibenik both offer excellent beaches.

Many people visit Montpellier for it's beautiful beaches. The coastline near Montpellier feels pristine and beautiful. You can also visit Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone to the southwest of town, which is a protected area.

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 Montpellier or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Montpellier 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 Montpellier is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as L'Écusson the town's old town dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a pedestrian area that is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and churches.

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 Montpellier or Sibenik?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Montpellier 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 Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

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

Is Montpellier or Sibenik Better for Families?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Montpellier offers lots of family activities. Popular activities for kids include taking a ride on the carousel in the Comedie, visiting the playground - Jardin Champs de Mars, and visiting the botanical garden - Jardin des Plantes.

Is Montpellier or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Montpellier and Sibenik both excellent destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Montpellier frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.

Sibenik is a great city if you're traveling as 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 Montpellier or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Montpellier and Sibenik are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Montpellier is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Sibenik is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Montpellier or Sibenik Better for Students?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Montpellier is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Sibenik is not popular with students.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for students. Montpellier is a popular university town that is home to many trendy university students. It's also where you'll find the youngest population of any city in France.

Sibenik is not popular with students.

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

Montpellier
Sibenik

Montpellier 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 Montpellier can move around easily with public transportation. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

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 Montpellier or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Montpellier
Sibenik

Sibenik is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Montpellier is very walkable. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Montpellier and Sibenik. In our opinion, Sibenik has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sibenik than Montpellier. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Montpellier, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Montpellier. 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 Montpellier. 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 Montpellier 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 Montpellier.


  • How many days in Montpellier or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Montpellier 1-3 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Montpellier or Sibenik?

In Montpellier, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Montpellier or Sibenik?

In Montpellier, 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 Montpellier has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the undiscovered 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 Montpellier or Sibenik?

Montpellier 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.

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 Montpellier or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Montpellier. 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.

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 in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Montpellier?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Montpellier is €118, 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 Montpellier and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Montpellier 69
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Montpellier 138
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Montpellier and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Montpellier 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 Montpellier


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: Montpellier Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Montpellier 26
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montpellier

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Montpellier:

  • Transfer from Sète Port to Marseille Provence Airport MRS: $131
  • Transfer Montpellier Airport and Beziers Airport: $49
  • Private Transfer from Sète Cruise Port to Marseille city hotels: $131
  • Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport Transfer: $64
  • Montpellier Private Transfer from Montpellier city centre to Montpellier Airport: $74
  • Montpellier Private Transfer from Montpellier Airport to City centre: $74

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sibenik

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

  • Airport transfer from Split to Šibenik or vice versa: $163
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split: $261
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split airport: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Montpellier or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Montpellier 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
    Montpellier 31
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montpellier

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Montpellier.

  • Guided Food Tour With Local Snacks and Wine: $82
  • From Pic Saint-Loup Wine and Food Tour: $91
  • Montpellier Food Tour: $92
  • Cooking workshop: $105
  • Private cooking class with specialized chefs Montpellier: $108
  • Fusion Food Cooking Class: $426

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Montpellier 12
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Montpellier

Here are a few actual costs in Montpellier for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • CityTour and Photo Portraits Souvenirs in Montpellier: $38
  • From Half-Day Vineyard & Pic Saint-Loup Tour: $80
  • From Wine and Olive Tour: $75
  • Highlights of Sète : history, food and wine experience: $175
  • Legendary Montpellier, flexible legends and storytelling tour: $16
  • Montpellier - Private Historic Walking tour: $426
  • Montpellier Private Guided Walking Tour: $306
  • Montpellier Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $269
  • Montpellier Wine and Oyster Tour: $85
  • Camargue Winery Tour with Tastings and Picnic: $250
  • Half-Day Hiking Tour of Pic Saint Loup & Picnic: $64
  • Personalized Day-Tour of the South of France: $1,055

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: $130
  • Sibenik Private Combined Food & Drink and Historical Tour: $151
  • Full-Day Sailing Tour in Šibenik Archipelago: $163
  • The Best of Sibenik Private Walking Tour: $163
  • Private walking tour of Sibenik: $163

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Montpellier 15
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Montpellier

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Montpellier:

  • The Châteaux of Grès de Montpellier & Wine Tasting: $80
  • Small-Group Half-Day Châteaux of Montpellier Wine Tour: $84
  • Small-Group Half-Day Languedoc Pic Saint-Loup Wine Tour from Montpellier: $84
  • Wine tour in Pic Saint-Loup area: $142
  • Half-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $155
  • Montpellier : half day wine tour in Camargue: $159
  • Private Half-Day Languedoc Wine Tour from Sète: $240
  • Sète: Private Half–Day Wine Tour: $352

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: $212
  • From Split or Trogir: Krka National Park & Wine Tasting Tour: $1,066


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


Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Sibenik?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Sibenik. The summer months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

In the summer, Montpellier is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Montpellier in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Sibenik averages at about 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 Montpellier this time of the year. In the summer, Montpellier often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in July than Sibenik. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Montpellier 23°C (73°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Montpellier this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Montpellier is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 15°C (60°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. Montpellier usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during autumn. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Montpellier. In October, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Montpellier 15°C (60°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Montpellier during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Montpellier is cooler than Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Sibenik. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in January than Sibenik. Montpellier gets 72 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
    Montpellier 7°C (44°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Montpellier or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Sibenik. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Montpellier is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Montpellier in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Sibenik during spring. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Montpellier 13°C (55°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Montpellier

Montpellier Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 15°C (60°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 10°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)