A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ventimiglia vs. Sibenik for Food, Beaches, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Sibenik? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a elegant, scenic, and traditional seaside town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Sibenik

Sibenik is a authentic, local, and undiscovered town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Ventimiglia 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sibenik than Ventimiglia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sibenik is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Ventimiglia is more popular for its shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Sibenik is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. Also, Sibenik is famous for Krka National Park. Ventimiglia is well known for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Ventimiglia different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Foodies will find both Ventimiglia and Sibenik both to be superb destinations.

Dining out in Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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 Ventimiglia or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a popular place for its resorts. However, Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.

Sibenik has a few great resort options. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.

Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.


Is Ventimiglia or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a town with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for the beach. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Ventimiglia or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both Ventimiglia and Sibenik.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Sibenik. The charming old town is car-free and filled with quaint streets and lovely cafes.


Is the Shopping Better in Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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

Is Ventimiglia or Sibenik Better for Families?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Ventimiglia or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

With fun activities for couples, both Ventimiglia and Sibenik make for a superb place to visit.

Couples visit Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Sibenik is a great seaside 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.


Is Ventimiglia or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Sibenik.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

While Sibenik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a public bus system that can help you get around the area.

Is Ventimiglia or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia
Sibenik

Sibenik is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Ventimiglia is very walkable. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

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

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

One day in Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

Ventimiglia is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic town of Sibenik. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

Ventimiglia 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ventimiglia has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the undiscovered destination of Sibenik. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

Ventimiglia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

The authentic town of Sibenik offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. Since Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sibenik. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples 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 Ventimiglia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ventimiglia is €121, 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 Ventimiglia and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ventimiglia 51
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ventimiglia 102
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Ventimiglia and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia


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: Ventimiglia Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ventimiglia 49
    Sibenik 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sibenik

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

  • Airport transfer from Split to Šibenik or vice versa: $164
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split: $262
  • Private transfer from Sibenik to Split airport: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ventimiglia 27
    Sibenik 12

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Tours and Activities in Sibenik

For Sibenik, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Discover Šibenik - Evening walking tour : $38
  • Daily or night walking tour through Medieval Šibenik: $45
  • Private Sibenik Walking Historical Morning or Evening Tour: $49
  • Via Ferrata tour - Čikola Canyon: $74
  • Krka Waterfalls National Park Boat Tour from Vodice: $76
  • Kornati island National Park & Telascica Nature Park Boat Tour from Vodice: $76
  • Šibenik Riviera boat tour: Zlarin + Prvić + Tijat: $120
  • Kornati Experience small group (12 pax) boat tour: $137
  • Sibenik Private Combined Food & Drink and Historical Tour: $152
  • Full-Day Sailing Tour in Šibenik Archipelago: $164
  • The Best of Sibenik Private Walking Tour: $164
  • Private walking tour of Sibenik: $164

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ventimiglia 7.19
    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 Ventimiglia and Sibenik, we can see that Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia Expensive? and Is Sibenik Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

Sibenik has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia or Sibenik?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Sibenik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Sibenik. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Sibenik because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ventimiglia is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ventimiglia in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Sibenik averages at about 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sibenik. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ventimiglia this time of the year. In the summer, Ventimiglia often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in July than Sibenik. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sibenik this time of year.

In October, Ventimiglia is generally around the same temperature as Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 17°C (63°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. Ventimiglia usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during autumn. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Ventimiglia. In October, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Sibenik in the Winter?

Both Sibenik and Ventimiglia during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sibenik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Sibenik in the winter. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Ventimiglia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik. Ventimiglia gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Sibenik. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Sibenik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Sibenik. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sibenik in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ventimiglia is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ventimiglia in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Sibenik averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sibenik during spring. Ventimiglia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sibenik. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)