A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Cagliari for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antalya or Cagliari?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Cagliari? 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a luxurious, historic, and cultural vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a relaxed, historic, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Cagliari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than Cagliari, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cagliari is known for its big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Cagliari is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches.

How is Antalya different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Cagliari?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Cagliari and Antalya.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Many visitors head to Cagliari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Cagliari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Cagliari can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cagliari makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Cagliari.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Cagliari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Music?

Antalya is very good for its live music scene. However, Cagliari is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Cagliari is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Resorts?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Antalya is a perfect choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for the beache. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Antalya is a very popular vacation destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cagliari. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the great old towns in both Antalya and Cagliari.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cagliari. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Hiking?

Antalya is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Cagliari?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Antalya draws large crowds to its stores. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to go shopping. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Cagliari.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Cagliari is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Cagliari make for a great place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Couples visit Cagliari frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Students?

Cagliari is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Cagliari. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Cagliari Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Antalya can get you around easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Antalya or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Cagliari is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Cagliari is a very walkable destination. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Cagliari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Cagliari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Cagliari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Cagliari. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cagliari.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Cagliari. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Antalya, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Cagliari 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 Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Cagliari?

The beautiful vacation spot of Antalya offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

In Cagliari, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antalya or Cagliari?

Antalya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this vacation spot makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Cagliari, 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 Cagliari has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Cagliari?

Antalya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cagliari 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 Antalya or Cagliari?

Antalya is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This vacation spot offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cagliari. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cagliari. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Cagliari, we can see that Antalya 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 Antalya Expensive? and Is Cagliari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Cagliari?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Cagliari, 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 Antalya or Cagliari?

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 Antalya or Cagliari in the Summer?

Both Cagliari and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cagliari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during summer. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antalya usually receives less rain than Cagliari. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antalya or Cagliari in the Autumn?

Both Cagliari and Antalya during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cagliari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Antalya is a little warmer than Cagliari in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Cagliari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the autumn, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets more rain in October than Cagliari. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Cagliari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Cagliari. Many visitors come to Antalya in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Antalya is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Cagliari averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during winter. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

Antalya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Antalya usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antalya or Cagliari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Cagliari. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the spring, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets more rain in April than Cagliari. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Antalya