A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pompeii vs. Sibenik for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Pompeii or Sibenik?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pompeii and Sibenik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a famous, iconic, and one-of-a-kind archeological site. Other reasons to visit include 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pompeii and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Pompeii or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Pompeii, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is more popular for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. 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 Pompeii different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pompeii
Sibenik

Pompeii is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Pompeii from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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 Pompeii or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Sibenik has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Pompeii or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Pompeii or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.


Is Pompeii or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pompeii or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Sibenik is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Pompeii or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Sibenik. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Pompeii or Sibenik?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is very good for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Sibenik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Pompeii or Sibenik Better for Families?

Pompeii
Sibenik

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Pompeii or Sibenik.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Sibenik makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.


Is Pompeii or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Pompeii or Sibenik Better for Students?

Pompeii
Sibenik

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

Plenty of students visit Pompeii. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Sibenik is not popular with students.

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

Pompeii
Sibenik

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Pompeii and Sibenik.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

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 Pompeii or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Pompeii
Sibenik

Pompeii and Sibenik are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Pompeii. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Pompeii?

How long in Pompeii or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pompeii and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sibenik than in Pompeii. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Pompeii, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pompeii 1-2 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Pompeii or Sibenik?

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Pompeii or Sibenik?

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. 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 museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Sibenik?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pompeii. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Pompeii?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pompeii is €151, 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 Pompeii and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pompeii 70
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pompeii 140
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Pompeii and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Pompeii 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 Pompeii


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: Pompeii Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pompeii 54
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pompeii

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

  • Transfers from Naples to Sorrento Positano Amalfi Ravello Maiori: $97
  • Transfers Ravello - Naples: $207
  • Transfer from Pompeii to Naples or viceversa: $66
  • Transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Transfer Private from Ravello to Naples: $239
  • Small Group Pompeii Wine Tasting with Lunch & Transfer Included : $97
  • Private transfer from Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Private transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Organic Wine Tasting & Lunch on Vesuvius with Transfer from Pompeii: $132

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 Pompeii or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Pompeii 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
    Pompeii 35
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pompeii

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

  • Traditional Neapolitan Dinner in Pompei - Villa Franca - Family Restourant: $38
  • Cooking Class with Italian Mamma in Pompeii: $65
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Pompei: $93
  • Pompei tour with a 2000 years roman dinner: $112
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Pompei: $142
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Pompei: $158
  • Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Pompei: $158
  • Private market tour and cooking class with lunch or dinner in Pompei: $206
  • guided tour of the ruins and cooking class fresh pasta : $272
  • Cooking class: Pasta Experience in Pompei, Italy: $300

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pompeii 77
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Pompeii

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

  • Pompeii Archeological Site Fast Track Entry Ticket : $36
  • Pompeii Day Tour: $97
  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour with Certified Guide in Pompeii: $251
  • 2 Hours Private Tour of Pompeii for Journey Through Time: $196
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Pompeii with an Archaeologist: $272
  • 2 days tour: Pompei & Naples center with underground: $207
  • 2 hours Pompeii Tour with local historian - ticket included: $60
  • 2-hour Private Guided Tour of Pompeii: $272
  • Best of Pompeii - 2 hour Private Tour with Alex: $271
  • Complete Pompeii Skip the Line Tour with Archaeologist Guide: $55
  • Discover Pompeii on this Guided Walking Tour of the Buried City: $63
  • Discover hidden secrets of Pompei on a Private tour with a local: $118

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
    Pompeii 7.31
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Pompeii

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

  • Wine Tasting Tour on the Slopes of Vesuvius: $46
  • Wine Tasting on Mt. Vesuvius: $55
  • Seafood Lunch with Wine Tasting & Tour on a golf cart: $87
  • Guided Tour of Pompeii Ruins with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $98
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting in Pompeii with a Local: $124
  • Pompeii Guided Tour & Horse Riding on Vesuvius with Wine Tasting: $191
  • Pompeii, Herculaneum and scenic drive of the Mt. Vesuvius with wine tasting: $207

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 Pompeii and Sibenik, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Pompeii are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pompeii in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Pompeii is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pompeii in July average around 23°C (74°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 Pompeii. Pompeii usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Pompeii gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Pompeii usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sibenik. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pompeii 23°C (74°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Pompeii or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Pompeii during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pompeii is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 17°C (63°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Pompeii often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. Pompeii usually gets more rain in October than Sibenik. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pompeii 17°C (63°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Pompeii or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Sibenik. The winter months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the museums. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

Pompeii is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Pompeii usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Pompeii gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Pompeii gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pompeii 8°C (47°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Pompeii or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Sibenik. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pompeii is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pompeii in April average around 13°C (55°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, Pompeii often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Pompeii usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Sibenik. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Pompeii

Pompeii Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)