A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Etienne vs. Sibenik for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a authentic, historic, and park-filled city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a local, undiscovered, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sibenik. Although Saint-Etienne and Sibenik are popular destinations, Sibenik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sibenik is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its hiking. Sibenik is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. It is also well known for Krka National Park. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Saint-Etienne different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for its historical sights. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint-Etienne. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.


Is the Food Better in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sibenik has a huge number of terrific 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.

Saint-Etienne may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

The vibe at night is nice in both Saint-Etienne and Sibenik.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint-Etienne has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Saint-Etienne is not a resort destination.

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.

Saint-Etienne is not a resort destination.


Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Saint-Etienne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Sibenik. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Saint-Etienne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Sibenik for it's beautiful 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.


Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Saint-Etienne offers some nice hiking trails. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

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

Saint-Etienne has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for Families?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sibenik is very family-friendly. It has grown into a popular summer resort destination. There are many outdoor activities in the area including kayaking, swimming, and boating. You should also take a day trip to Krka National Park to see the waterfalls. There are also some good beaches where families can hang out.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly place to visit. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.


Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for couples.

Sibenik is a great town 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.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.

Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many 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.

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

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

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Saint-Etienne and Sibenik both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Saint-Etienne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are tram and bus options available in town.

Sibenik has a few public transit options. There is a public bus system that can help you get around the area.


Is Saint-Etienne or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Saint-Etienne
Sibenik

Sibenik is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Sibenik is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is car-free and easily explored on foot.

Saint-Etienne is a somewhat walkable city. There are several walkable areas in the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint-Etienne Worth Visiting? and Is Sibenik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Saint-Etienne?

How long in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

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

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

One day in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find nightlife and museums. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Sibenik. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint-Etienne has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sibenik. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

Saint-Etienne 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic destination of Sibenik. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Etienne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint-Etienne. 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 town of Sibenik. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Sibenik or Saint-Etienne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint-Etienne 46
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint-Etienne 92
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Saint-Etienne and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne


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: Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 44
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sibenik

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Saint-Etienne 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
    Saint-Etienne 34
    Sibenik 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 25
    Sibenik 12

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
    Saint-Etienne 10
    Sibenik 16

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 Saint-Etienne and Sibenik, we can see that Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint-Etienne or Sibenik?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Etienne and Sibenik. The summer months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

In July, Saint-Etienne is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Saint-Etienne average around 22°C (71°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In Saint-Etienne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Saint-Etienne gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint-Etienne usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Saint-Etienne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Sibenik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint-Etienne as well as Sibenik. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is cooler than Sibenik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the autumn, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Saint-Etienne gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sibenik. Saint-Etienne gets 78 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
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Saint-Etienne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint-Etienne 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.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint-Etienne. In the winter, Saint-Etienne is much colder than Sibenik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint-Etienne in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Sibenik averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Saint-Etienne gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint-Etienne usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Saint-Etienne gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Sibenik in the Spring?

Both Sibenik and Saint-Etienne during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Saint-Etienne is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Saint-Etienne average around 11°C (53°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Saint-Etienne gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Sibenik. Saint-Etienne gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)