A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Taormina vs. Sibenik for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Taormina 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 Taormina 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.

Taormina

Taormina is a opulent, historic, and beautiful town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. 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 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.

Taormina and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Taormina or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Taormina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Taormina is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Taormina is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. 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 Taormina different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Taormina
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Taormina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.


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

Taormina
Sibenik

Both Taormina and Sibenik offer very good local cuisine and restaurants.

Taormina has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

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 Taormina or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Taormina
Sibenik

Taormina is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Sibenik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Taormina has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

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 Taormina or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Sibenik

Taormina 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 Taormina to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

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 Taormina or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Taormina
Sibenik

Sibenik is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Taormina or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for the beach. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Taormina offers a nice beach destination. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Is Taormina or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Taormina
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Sibenik?

Taormina
Sibenik

If you're looking to go shopping, Taormina and Sibenik both offer plenty of notable spots.

Taormina has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

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

Is Taormina or Sibenik Better for Families?

Taormina
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known 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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Taormina or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Taormina
Sibenik

Both Taormina and Sibenik are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

Sibenik is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Taormina or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taormina
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known 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.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.

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

Taormina
Sibenik

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

While Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

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

Is Taormina or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Taormina
Sibenik

Sibenik is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Taormina is very walkable. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Taormina?

How long in Taormina or Sibenik?

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

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Taormina. 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 Taormina. 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taormina 2-4 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Taormina or Sibenik?

Taormina is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Taormina or Sibenik?

Taormina 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. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Taormina 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 Taormina or Sibenik?

Taormina 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 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 Taormina or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. Since Taormina is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking 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 Taormina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Taormina 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 Taormina and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taormina 70
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taormina 140
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Taormina and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Taormina 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 Taormina


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: Taormina Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taormina 4.29
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41
  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49

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 Taormina or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Taormina 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
    Taormina 33
    Sibenik 29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taormina 11
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Taormina

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

  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Lovers Tour: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Small Group Tour of Sicily Highlights: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150

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
    Taormina 8.57
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Taormina:

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299

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 Taormina and Sibenik, we can see that Taormina 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 Taormina Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Taormina or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Sibenik in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Taormina is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Taormina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Sibenik averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Taormina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during summer. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Taormina usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Taormina 27°C (80°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Sibenik in the Autumn?

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

In October, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 21°C (69°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the autumn, Taormina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Taormina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun.

Taormina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Taormina usually gets more rain in October than Sibenik. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Sibenik in the Winter?

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

Taormina is a little warmer than Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Taormina usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during winter. Taormina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Taormina usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Sibenik in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Taormina is around the same temperature as Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Taormina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Taormina. In the spring, Taormina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in April than Sibenik. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Taormina 16°C (60°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Taormina

Taormina Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)