Dubrovnik may top many travellers’ wish lists for Croatia, but those looking to stretch their holiday budget could save hundreds simply by choosing a lesser-known coastal city – where food, drink and accommodation are a fraction of the cost. The UNESCO-listed city welcomes more than two million visitors every year, with heavy crowds, many arriving on cruise ships, flooding the Old Town during peak season.This growing demand has pushed up prices throughout the summer months, with the average beer inside the ancient city costing as much as €6 (£5.16).Entry alone to Dubrovnik’s famous City Walls sets visitors back €35 (£30). However, travel experts at First Choice say holidaymakers can enjoy the same Adriatic coastline for less by swapping Dubrovnik for a historic waterfront city situated less than an hour from Split Airport. Croatia’s oldest native city, Sibenik, offers a quiet, affordable alternative to the Dubrovnik, which Sibenik is a city of history and culture – check out two of its UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Cathedral of St James (pictured) and St Nicholas Fortress The waterfront city is situated less than an hour from Split AirportCroatia’s oldest native city, Sibenik, is packed with medieval streets, historic architecture and seafood restaurants – offering a similar vibe to its popular neighbour without the hefty price tag.According to experts, a pint of local beer costs around €2.75 (£2.37) in Sibenik – less than half the price of one in Dubrovnik. In addition, a three-course meal for two is, on average, around €25 (£21.50) cheaper. Accommodation is also more affordable, with three-night holidays starting from around £379 – up to 31 per cent less than equivalent breaks in Dubrovnik. Nevin Nelson, managing director at First Choice, said: ‘Croatia remains one of Europe’s most popular summer destinations, particularly around Dubrovnik and Split where peak-season demand can place pressure on prices.’As a result, many holidaymakers are looking at destinations that offer the same Adriatic experience, but without the premium attached to the most established resorts.’ As well as being better value, Sibenik is the only city in Croatia home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Cathedral of St James and St Nicholas Fortress, which sits just off the shore and can only be reached by boat.Visitors can also reach the Krka National Park in around 20 minutes to explore its waterfalls and walking trails, while boat trips from the harbour provide access to nearby islands and quieter parts of the Dalmatian coast. Dalmatia offers countless sandy spots, such as Banj Beach and Rezalište Beach, while Lake Prokljan provides a scenic inland alternative. As Croatia’s second-largest lake, this natural gem features a rich ecosystem that is home to 153 bird species alongside various reptiles, amphibians, and molluscs.Sibenik’s waterfront Hotel Bellevue – Superior City Hotel offers a central base for exploring Split and Zadar, featuring three-night August stays with breakfast from £423pp. Accommodation is affordable in the city, with three-night holidays starting from around £379 – up to 31 per cent less than equivalent breaks in Dubrovnik The area is home to a myriad of natural water spots, from its picturesque harbour to nearby Banj Beach and Rezalište Beach Visitors can enjoy a cold local beer for just £2.37 in SibenikAs for food and drink, standout spots include Konoba Nostalgija, a family-friendly restaurant renowned for its fresh tuna tartare, seafood plates and local craft beer. Elsewhere, the Michelin-starred Pelegrini serves up reinvented Dalmatian dishes.’What makes Sibenik stand out is how much you can experience within a short distance,’ said Taylor Marshall, product executive at First Choice.’You can explore the old town in the morning, take a boat trip to nearby islands in the afternoon, go on day trips to national parks or nearby towns – and still be back along the waterfront for dinner.’One of my favourite local spots is Konoba Marenda, where traditional Dalmatian dishes like seafood risotto cost around €10 (£8.59) – a great example of the strong value you still find locally compared with more established tourist hotspots.’With a mix of history, coastline and nature all within easy reach, Sibenik offers an affordable alternative for travellers wanting to experience Croatia beyond its bustling tourist hotspots this summer. Looking for another quiet, affordable spot in Croatia? Located on the northern part of the Adriatic Sea is a secret coastal city with €2.50 wine, alpine views and access to four small islands. Rijeka provides all the beauty, beach scenery and sun of the popular regions – without hordes of tourists. Located a five-hour drive away from Split, Rijeka sits on the Kvarner Bay in Western Croatia and is known as the ‘gateway’ to the Croatian Islands of Krk, Cres, Rab and Losinj.When it comes to food and drinks, it is more affordable than other cities in Croatia with €2.50 (£2.20) glasses of wine.