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

Should you visit Paros 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 Paros 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.

Paros

Paros is a breathtaking, striking, and historical island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a charming, authentic, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Paros and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Sibenik are popular destinations, Paros has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paros is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Sibenik attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Paros is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also well known for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Sibenik is famous for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Paros different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Paros. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

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 Paros or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Paros, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

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 Paros or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

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

Paros has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

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 Paros or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Paros is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Paros to choose from. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

With a selection of resorts, Sibenik makes a nice vacation spot. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.

Is Paros or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sibenik is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Paros. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

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

Is Paros or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

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

Paros offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Sibenik is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are less crowded than those in the more popular nearby cities, but they are gaining popularity. In town, Banj Beach is a pebbly beach that is easy to access. Nearby Jadrija Beach is considered to be one of the most photogenic in the area and St. Nicholas Beach is one of the more remote.

Is Paros or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Sibenik is a very popular place for its old town. However, Paros does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Sibenik. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

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

Paros offers some nice hiking trails. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Sibenik?

Paros 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 Paros. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

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

Is Paros or Sibenik Better for Families?

Both Paros and Sibenik are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

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.

Is Paros or Sibenik Better for Couples?

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

Paros is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

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 Paros or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros and Sibenik are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

Sibenik is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Paros or Sibenik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paros 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 Paros can move around easily with public transportation. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

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 Paros or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Sibenik is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Paros is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Paros?

How long in Paros or Sibenik?

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

Families should spend more time in Paros than Sibenik. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paros, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Paros or Sibenik?

In Paros, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Sibenik, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this local destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paros or Sibenik?

In Paros, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sibenik. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paros or Sibenik?

Paros is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paros has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Sibenik is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sibenik. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paros. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paros. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the local destination of Sibenik. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros 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.