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

Should you visit Nantes or Sibenik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Nantes 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.

Nantes

Nantes is a beautiful, vibrant, and welcoming city. 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 charming, authentic, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nantes and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Nantes or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Nantes, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Nantes is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Nantes is well known for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. 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 Nantes different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nantes
Sibenik

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Sibenik and Nantes.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nantes can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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.


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

Nantes
Sibenik

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

Eat your way through Nantes, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Nantes
Sibenik

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

Nantes has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

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 Nantes or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Nantes
Sibenik

Sibenik is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a resort destination.


Is Nantes or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nantes
Sibenik

Sibenik is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nantes is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Sibenik. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Nantes is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nantes or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Nantes
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for the beach. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Nantes or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Nantes
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Many visitors go to Sibenik to see the historical old town. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Many visitors go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Sibenik?

Nantes
Sibenik

Nantes 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 Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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

Is Nantes or Sibenik Better for Families?

Nantes
Sibenik

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nantes. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Sibenik is 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.

Is Nantes or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Nantes
Sibenik

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

Nantes makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantes
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or Sibenik Better for Students?

Nantes
Sibenik

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

Plenty of students visit Nantes. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Sibenik is not popular with students.

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

Nantes
Sibenik

Nantes 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 Nantes can move around easily with public transportation. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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 Nantes or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Nantes
Sibenik

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

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

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Sibenik?

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

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Nantes. 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 Nantes. 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 Nantes 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 Nantes or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantes 2-3 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Nantes or Sibenik?

In Nantes, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sibenik. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nantes or Sibenik?

In Nantes, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. 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 Nantes has to offer.

Sibenik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Nantes or Sibenik?

Nantes 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sibenik. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nantes or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nantes. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Sibenik. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) 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 Nantes?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantes is €108, 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 Nantes and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantes 60
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantes 120
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Nantes and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Nantes 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 Nantes


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: Nantes Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantes 36
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nantes

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

  • Private Transfer from Nantes Hotels to La Rochelle Cruise Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Atlantique Airport NTE to Puy du Fou Park: $174
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Airport (NTE) to La Rochelle Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes: $33
  • Nantes to Nantes Airport (NTE) - Departure Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes city centre to Nantes Airport: $65
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes Airport to City centre: $65
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sibenik

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

  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split airport: $126
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split: $262
  • Airport transfer from Split to Šibenik or vice versa: $164

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantes or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Nantes 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
    Nantes 27
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nantes

For Nantes, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nantes Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Nantes Old Town with Local Guide: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantes 13
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Nantes

For Nantes, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Exploring London's Natural Marvels: Museum Adventure: $83
  • Guided treetop adventure course in the heart of Nantes: $31
  • Half-Day Tour in Nantes: $291
  • Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour: $75
  • Nantes : Private Walking Tour With A Local : $51
  • Nantes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Nantes Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Nantes Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike: $59

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
    Nantes 6.43
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Nantes

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

  • Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: $35

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 comparing the travel costs between Nantes and Sibenik, we can see that Nantes is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nantes Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nantes or Sibenik?

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

Both Sibenik and Nantes are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nantes for 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.

In the summer, Nantes is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantes in July average around 19°C (67°F), and Sibenik averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nantes. Nantes usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nantes usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantes 19°C (67°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Nantes or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Nantes during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nantes in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sibenik for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Nantes is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 13°C (56°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Nantes gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sibenik. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantes 13°C (56°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Nantes or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Sibenik. Most visitors come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nantes is much colder than Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

In January, Nantes usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sibenik. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantes 6°C (42°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Nantes or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nantes as well as Sibenik. The spring months attract visitors to Nantes because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

In the spring, Nantes is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantes in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the spring, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Nantes gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets less rain in April than Sibenik. Nantes gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantes 11°C (51°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Nantes

Nantes Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)