A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Sibenik vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

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 Sibenik and Dubrovnik. 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.

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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a historic, charming, and famous coastal town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Sibenik and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik than Sibenik, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dubrovnik is better known for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Sibenik is more popular for its beaches and small town charm. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. Also, Dubrovnik is famous for The Old Town Walls. Sibenik is well known for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Sibenik different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the superb sights and museums in either Sibenik or Dubrovnik.

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.

Dubrovnik offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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

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

Eat your way through Dubrovnik, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sibenik. The restaurants are local and delicious. The old town has cafes that spill into the squares, so dining is a truly delightful experience. This is a hidden gem on the Adriatic.

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Both Sibenik and Dubrovnik have notable vibes after the sun sets.

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.

Dubrovnik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Dubrovnik to choose from. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

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

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find respectable places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Sibenik and Dubrovnik.

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.

Dubrovnik has a few snorkeling spots. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Sibenik is a great town for the beach. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its beaches.

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

Many people head to Dubrovnik to enjoy the beach. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The old town of Dubrovnik is one of the most recognized in the world. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Sibenik. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dubrovnik. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Sibenik. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Dubrovnik offers some nice shopping areas. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Both Sibenik and Dubrovnik are superb family-friendly destinations.

Sibenik is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Dubrovnik is a very kid-friendly town. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

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

Dubrovnik is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

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 Sibenik or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Dubrovnik. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

Sibenik is a great town to visit for backpackers. The town has a large number of hostels to choose from, making this an easy and convenient stop off for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Dubrovnik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Sibenik or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Sibenik and Dubrovnik are amazing when it comes to walkability.

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

Getting around Dubrovnik on foot is easy. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Sibenik?

How long in Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

In either Sibenik or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Sibenik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sibenik, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Sibenik if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Dubrovnik.

One day in Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Sibenik. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This coastal town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Sibenik. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubrovnik has to offer.

Five days in Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local town of Sibenik. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

Sibenik is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dubrovnik. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Sibenik and Dubrovnik, we can see that Dubrovnik 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 Sibenik Expensive? and Is Dubrovnik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Sibenik and Dubrovnik, 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 Sibenik or Dubrovnik?

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 Sibenik or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sibenik and Dubrovnik. The beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sibenik is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Sibenik average around 26°C (80°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

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

Should I visit Sibenik or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sibenik as well as Dubrovnik. Many travelers come to Sibenik for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Sibenik is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sibenik averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Sibenik usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Sibenik gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sibenik or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Sibenik are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Sibenik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Sibenik is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sibenik in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In January, Sibenik usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Sibenik gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sibenik or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Sibenik during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Sibenik is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Sibenik average around 15°C (59°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sibenik usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Sibenik gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Sibenik