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

Should you visit Volterra or Sibenik?

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

Should I visit Volterra 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.

Volterra

Volterra is a charming, medieval, and cultural 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, shopping, and museums.

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's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Volterra and Sibenik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • 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 Volterra or Sibenik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sibenik. Although Volterra and Sibenik are both popular with visitors, Sibenik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sibenik is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Volterra is known for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Volterra is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster. Sibenik is popular for its photogenic beaches, charming old town, and surrounding natural beauty. It is also home to Krka National Park.

How is Volterra different from Sibenik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volterra
Sibenik

Both Volterra and Sibenik have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Volterra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a large town there are a huge number of historic sights packed into a small area. Check out the Roman Theater, the Etruscan Museum, and the Duomo.

Many visitors head to Sibenik specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Volterra or Sibenik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Volterra
Sibenik

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

Eat your way through Volterra, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town is surrounded by the region of truffles, so you'll find this item included in all kinds of recipes. Pumpkin sauce is also a specialty of the area and there are also many local cheeses. Many restaurants also have bruschetta as an appetizer.

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 Volterra or Sibenik Better for Nightlife?

Volterra
Sibenik

Sibenik is a popular place for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Volterra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are cozy bars and cafes where you can sip wine and soak up the atmosphere, but the town isn't known as a nightlife destination.

Is Volterra or Sibenik Better for Resorts?

Volterra
Sibenik

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

Sibenik has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has gained popularity in recent years and its become a popular summer resort destination for Europeans.

Volterra is not a resort destination.


Is Volterra or Sibenik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volterra
Sibenik

Sibenik is a town with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Volterra 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.

Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Volterra or Sibenik Better for Beaches?

Volterra
Sibenik

Sibenik is well known for its beaches. However, Volterra is not a beach destination.

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.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Volterra or Sibenik Better for its Old Town?

Volterra
Sibenik

Volterra 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 Volterra is one of the most recognized in the world. The walled town is perched on a hilltop and dates back to the 8th century BC. Visitors come specifically to explore its winding streets and stunning setting.

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 the Shopping Better in Volterra or Sibenik?

Volterra
Sibenik

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sibenik and Volterra.

Volterra is a great destination for shopping. Some of the streets are lined with boutique shops and one of the most popular things to buy in town is Alabaster. You'll also find plenty of Italian wine from the nearby vineyards.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sibenik. You'll find some local shops selling interesting trinkets and souvenirs.

Is Volterra or Sibenik Better for Families?

Volterra
Sibenik

Sibenik is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Sibenik is 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.

Volterra offers lots of family activities. If you have a Twilight fan, this town is home to the Volturi, who are the royal family of vampires. For everyone else, its a charming town with medieval walls and wandering alleys that kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Volterra or Sibenik Better for Couples?

Volterra
Sibenik

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

Volterra is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's unique atmosphere, amazing food, and medieval style make for a unique and world class couples destination. While many people visit as a day trip, you can spend the night and soak up the evening atmosphere as well.

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 Volterra or Sibenik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volterra
Sibenik

Sibenik is well known for backpackers. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Volterra is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's only one or two hostels in town, so if you're looking for a more social backpacker setting, then this may not be your spot. It does make for a great day trip though and if you're more interested in culture than meeting other backpackers, then definitely stop by.

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

Volterra
Sibenik

Sibenik is a popular place for its public transit. However, Volterra is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Volterra. Public transit isn't necessary as the city is best explored on foot.

Is Volterra or Sibenik a more walkable city?

Volterra
Sibenik

Volterra and Sibenik both are amazing when exploring on foot.

Getting around Volterra on foot is easy. Most people explore the town on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Sibenik or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Sibenik?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sibenik than Volterra 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 Volterra or Sibenik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Volterra 1-2 
    Sibenik 2-3

One day in Volterra or Sibenik?

Volterra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Volterra or Sibenik?

Volterra 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. 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 Volterra 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 Volterra or Sibenik?

Volterra 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.

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 Volterra or Sibenik?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volterra. Since Volterra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

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 Volterra?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Volterra is €101, 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 Volterra and Sibenik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volterra 61
    Sibenik 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volterra 122
    Sibenik 110
Compare Hotels in Volterra and Sibenik

Looking for a hotel in Volterra 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 Volterra


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: Volterra Hotel Prices and Sibenik Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volterra

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Volterra:

  • Private Transfer from San Gimignano to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $248

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 Volterra or Sibenik?

Prices for flights to both Sibenik and Volterra 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
    Volterra 36
    Sibenik 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volterra

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

  • Buffet dinner at the farm: $49
  • Dining experience at a local's home in San Gimignano with show cooking: $93
  • Volterra - Olive oil tasting with lunch with lunch or dinner: $112
  • Pizza Cooking Class: $112
  • Fresh Pasta Cooking Class: $112
  • "Hands in dough" Cooking Class with Lunch: $120
  • Tuscan Cooking Class: $126
  • Tuscany: Wine Tasting Lunch or Dinner: $128
  • Winery Cave Dinner & Tasting in Tuscany - Romantic & Lovely : $137
  • Fiorentina Steak Dinner & Wine Tasting: $164
  • Cooking class, wine tasting and 2500 year old granaries: $175
  • Cooking Classes in Tuscany among the Chianti Vineyards: $175

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

Tours and Activities in Volterra

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

  • Cesani Wine Experience: $33
  • Chianti and Castle Small Group Tour from San Gimignano: $93
  • Discover Volterra with Licensed Tour Guide: $214
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $69
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $150
  • Private Tour: San Gimignano Walking Tour: $207
  • Private walking tour in San Gimignano with a local licensed guide: $218
  • San Gimignano Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $293
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $149
  • Truffle Lunch & Hunting Experience in San Gimignano: $180
  • Tuscany: Volterra Truffle Hunting Experience: $203
  • Volterra - Archeotour by e-bike with tasting: $187

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
    Volterra 16
    Sibenik 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Volterra

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Volterra:

  • San Gimignano: Chianti wine tasting : $33
  • Casa Emma Wine Tasting : $34
  • Gourmet Wine Tour San Gimignano Wine Tasting - San Quirico Winery: $36
  • 5 Wine Tastings in San Gimignano: $60
  • Lunch with Wine Tasting: $60
  • "Gourmet" Wine Tasting at Cesani's: $66
  • Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $71
  • Vineyard Walk & Wine Tasting in Tuscany: $115
  • Brunello Wine Tasting from San Gimignano: $130
  • Exclusive evening wine tasting at organic winery : $218
  • Chianti e-bike tour from Florence with wine tasting: $284
  • Private Excursion: Volterra & San Gimignano+wine tastings: $289

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


Which is Bigger, Volterra or Sibenik?

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

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

Volterra is cooler than Sibenik in the summer. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Sibenik fluctuates around 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 Volterra this time of the year. In the summer, Volterra often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 345 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets less rain in July than Sibenik. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volterra 23°C (74°F) 
    Sibenik 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Sibenik in the Autumn?

Both Sibenik and Volterra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Volterra 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 the autumn, Volterra is cooler than Sibenik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Volterra in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Sibenik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Sibenik. Volterra usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during autumn. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Volterra. In October, Volterra usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volterra 16°C (61°F) 
    Sibenik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Sibenik in the Winter?

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

In January, Volterra is generally cooler than Sibenik. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 7°C (45°F), and Sibenik fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Volterra often gets less sunshine than Sibenik. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sibenik receives 128 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets less rain in January than Sibenik. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volterra 7°C (45°F) 
    Sibenik 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Volterra or Sibenik in the Spring?

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

Volterra is cooler than Sibenik in the spring. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Sibenik fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sibenik this time of the year. Volterra usually receives less sunshine than Sibenik during spring. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Sibenik receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volterra usually receives more rain than Sibenik. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sibenik receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Volterra 13°C (55°F) 
    Sibenik 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Sibenik and Volterra

Volterra Sibenik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)