A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Varenna vs. Sibenik for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Varenna 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 Varenna 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.

Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, 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.

Varenna and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Varenna or Sibenik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sibenik. Although Varenna and Sibenik are popular destinations, Sibenik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sibenik is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Varenna attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Sibenik and is known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Sibenik is famous for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. It is also well known for Krka National Park.

How is Varenna different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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

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

Eat your way through Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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 Varenna or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Sibenik is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Varenna or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Sibenik is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna is not a resort destination.

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.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Varenna or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sibenik is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna 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.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Varenna or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Sibenik for it's beautiful 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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Varenna or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

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.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Varenna or Sibenik Better for Hiking?

Varenna 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 Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Sibenik is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Sibenik?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Varenna and Sibenik.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Varenna. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Many visitors go to Sibenik to go shopping. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Varenna or Sibenik Better for Families?

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sibenik is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is Varenna or Sibenik Better for Couples?

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

Varenna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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 Varenna or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sibenik is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

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

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

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 Varenna or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Varenna and Sibenik are terrific when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Sibenik?

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

Families should spend more time in Sibenik than Varenna. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sibenik than Varenna 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.

One day in Varenna or Sibenik?

In Varenna, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This village 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 nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Varenna or Sibenik?

In Varenna, 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 Varenna has to offer.

In Sibenik, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Sibenik has to offer.

Five days in Varenna or Sibenik?

Varenna is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 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.

A week in Varenna or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Varenna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik.

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

Which is Bigger, Varenna or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna 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 Varenna 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 Varenna or Sibenik in the Summer?

Both Sibenik and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking 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, Varenna is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 23°C (73°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 Varenna. Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during summer. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. In July, Varenna usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Varenna or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Varenna during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna 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.

Varenna is cooler than Sibenik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Sibenik, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Varenna gets 152 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 Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in October than Sibenik. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Sibenik in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. In the winter, Varenna is much colder than Sibenik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Varenna in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Sibenik averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Varenna usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during winter. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Varenna usually receives less rain than Sibenik. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Varenna or Sibenik in the Spring?

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

In April, Varenna is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 13°C (55°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. In the spring, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the spring. Varenna usually gets more rain in April than Sibenik. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Varenna