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

Should you visit San Remo or Sibenik?

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

Should I visit San Remo or Sibenik? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

San Remo

San Remo is a historic, relaxing, and beautiful coastal 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 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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

San Remo and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • 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 San Remo or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than San Remo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and small town charm, while San Remo is more popular for its impressive beauty. San Remo is well known for its olives, lemons, and flower market. 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 San Remo different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Remo or Sibenik?

San Remo
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

San Remo
Sibenik

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both San Remo and Sibenik.

San Remo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sibenik makes for a great culinary experience. 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 San Remo or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

San Remo
Sibenik

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in San Remo and Sibenik.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in San Remo. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

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 San Remo or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

San Remo
Sibenik

Sibenik is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not a resort destination.


Is San Remo or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Remo
Sibenik

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

San Remo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Remo or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

San Remo
Sibenik

For a relaxing beach holiday, both San Remo and Sibenik are superb choices.

San Remo is considered a top beach destination. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

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.

Is San Remo or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

San Remo
Sibenik

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both San Remo and Sibenik.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in San Remo or Sibenik?

San Remo
Sibenik

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both San Remo and Sibenik.

San Remo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Sibenik is a great destination for shopping. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is San Remo or Sibenik Better for Families?

San Remo
Sibenik

Kids will enjoy a visit to either San Remo or Sibenik.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in San Remo. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo or Sibenik Better for Couples?

San Remo
Sibenik

With fun activities for couples, both San Remo and Sibenik make for a superb place to visit.

San Remo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

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 San Remo or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Remo
Sibenik

Sibenik is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

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

San Remo
Sibenik

Visitors will find notable public transit in both San Remo and Sibenik.

San Remo has some public transit options. There are local buses around town.

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 San Remo or Sibenik a more walkable city?

San Remo
Sibenik

Sibenik is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, San Remo 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.

San Remo is very walkable. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or San Remo?

How long in San Remo or Sibenik?

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

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

One day in San Remo or Sibenik?

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

The town of Sibenik offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in San Remo or Sibenik?

In San Remo, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 San Remo has to offer.

Sibenik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sibenik, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in San Remo or Sibenik?

San Remo 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.

Sibenik is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in San Remo or Sibenik?

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

Sibenik is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine 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 San Remo?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Remo is €152, 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 San Remo and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Remo 80
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Remo 160
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in San Remo and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in San Remo 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 San Remo


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: San Remo Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Remo 46
    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 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 San Remo or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and San Remo 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
    San Remo 44
    Sibenik 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Remo 23
    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
    San Remo 14
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Remo and Sibenik, we can see that San Remo 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 San Remo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Remo 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 San Remo Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Remo or Sibenik?

San Remo has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Sibenik. When comparing the sizes of San Remo 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 San Remo 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 San Remo or Sibenik in the Summer?

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

In the summer, San Remo is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Remo in July average around 23°C (73°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 San Remo. San Remo usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. San Remo gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Remo usually receives less rain than Sibenik. San Remo gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit San Remo or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and San Remo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to San Remo because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

In October, San Remo is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in San Remo 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, San Remo often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. San Remo gets 183 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 San Remo. San Remo usually gets more rain in October than Sibenik. San Remo gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit San Remo or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both San Remo and Sibenik. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to San Remo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sibenik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

San Remo is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in San Remo averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

San Remo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during winter. San Remo gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Remo 9°C (48°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to San Remo as well as Sibenik. Many travelers come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Sibenik in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, San Remo is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Remo in April average around 13°C (56°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, San Remo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. San Remo gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

San Remo usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Sibenik. San Remo gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Remo 13°C (56°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and San Remo

San Remo Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)