A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sestri Levante vs. Sibenik for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sestri Levante and Sibenik can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a quiet, scenic, and local seaside town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a local, undiscovered, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Sestri Levante and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Sestri Levante, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Sestri Levante is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Sestri Levante is well known for its two bays and coastal setting. 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 Sestri Levante different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for its historical sights. However, Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Sestri Levante and Sibenik.

Sestri Levante has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

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 Sestri Levante or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is a town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Sibenik has a few options to choose from. 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.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Sestri Levante or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

If luxury resorts are your style, both Sestri Levante and Sibenik have notable options.

Sestri Levante has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

Sibenik has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.


Is Sestri Levante or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for the beach. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its beaches.

The beaches at Sibenik attract visitors from all over. 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.

Sestri Levante offers a nice beach destination. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Is Sestri Levante or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for its historic old town charm. However, Sestri Levante does not have a historic old town.

Sibenik is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Sestri Levante does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Sibenik Better for Families?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sibenik. 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.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

Is Sestri Levante or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

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.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.


Is Sestri Levante or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sibenik is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

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

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sestri Levante and Sibenik both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Sestri Levante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

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

Is Sestri Levante or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Sestri Levante
Sibenik

Sestri Levante and Sibenik are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

Sestri Levante is a very easy seaside town to get around on foot. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Sestri Levante?

How long in Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sestri Levante and Sibenik. In our opinion, Sibenik has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sibenik than Sestri Levante. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Sestri Levante, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

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

One day in Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Sestri Levante is a small town with plenty to do. This seaside town 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 museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Sestri Levante might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Sestri Levante has to offer.

Sibenik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Sestri Levante 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sestri Levante. Since Sestri Levante is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 town of Sibenik. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, The Best Historical 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 Sestri Levante?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sestri Levante is €143, 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 Sestri Levante and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sestri Levante 75
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sestri Levante 150
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Sestri Levante and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante


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: Sestri Levante Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sestri Levante 56
    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 Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Sestri Levante 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
    Sestri Levante 34
    Sibenik 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sestri Levante 25
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Sestri Levante

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sestri Levante.

  • Punta Manara Hiking Tour: $503

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
    Sestri Levante 7.86
    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 Sestri Levante and Sibenik, we can see that Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Sestri Levante or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 94% larger than the population of Sestri Levante. When comparing the sizes of Sestri Levante 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.