A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Split vs. Sibenik for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Split 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 Split 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.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a charming, authentic, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Split and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Split and Sibenik are popular destinations, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Sibenik attracts visitors for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Sibenik is famous for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty.

How is Split different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Split and Sibenik.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Split. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

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 Split or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Split has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

Dining out in Sibenik is an experience not to be missed. 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 Split or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Split is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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 Split or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Split 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 Split to choose from. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

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 Split or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sibenik is lacking in options for its diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Sibenik has a few snorkeling spots. There aren't as many snorkeling trips leaving from this town as other, more popular beach destinations in Croatia.

Is Split or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Split and Sibenik both offer excellent beaches.

Many people visit Split for it's beautiful beaches. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

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.

Is Split or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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.

Split offers a nice historic old town area. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Sibenik?

Split is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Sibenik offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Split or Sibenik Better for Families?

Both Split and Sibenik are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Split is very family-friendly. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Sibenik is known to be 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 Split or Sibenik Better for Couples?

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

Split is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Split. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

Sibenik is a great city 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 Split or Sibenik Better for Students?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Sibenik is not popular with students.

Many students visit Split. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Sibenik is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Split and Sibenik.

Split has some public transit options. There are bus services that will help you get 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 Split or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Sibenik is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Split is a very walkable destination. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Split?

How long in Split or Sibenik?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Split and Sibenik. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Split than in Sibenik. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Split, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sibenik.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split 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 Split.

One day in Split or Sibenik?

In Split, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Sibenik, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this undiscovered destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Split or Sibenik?

In Split, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Split has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sibenik. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Split or Sibenik?

Split is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sibenik. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Split or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Split. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 charming destination of Sibenik. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia, The Best Budget Tours to Croatia, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Split and Sibenik, we can see that Split 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 Split would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Split 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 Split Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Split or Sibenik?

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

Both Sibenik and Split are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, 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, Split is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Split average around 26°C (80°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. Split usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during summer. Split gets 345 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Split or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Split during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split 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.

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

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

Split usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sibenik. Split gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Split or Sibenik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Sibenik. Many travelers come to Split 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.

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

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

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

Should I visit Split or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Split as well as Sibenik. Many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Sibenik for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In the spring, Split often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Split gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Split