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

Should you visit Antalya or Catania?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Catania? 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 vibrant, high energy, and relaxing 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. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Catania

Catania is a lively, youthful, and fun port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Antalya and Catania: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Catania?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than Catania, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more popular for its museums, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Catania is known for its food and big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Catania and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Catania is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna.

How is Antalya different from Catania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Catania 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 Catania?

Antalya is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

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

Catania is an amazing port city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Catania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Catania is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Music?

Antalya is very good for its live music scene. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Resorts?

Antalya is very popular for its resorts. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Beaches?

Antalya is very popular for the beache. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for its Old Town?

Antalya is notable for its old town. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Antalya and Catania both have great trails.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Catania?

Antalya is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Catania.

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.

Catania is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Couples?

Antalya is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

Antalya is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Catania is a good vacation spot for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and Catania are both great destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Is Antalya or Catania Better for Students?

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

Catania is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find great public transit in both Antalya and Catania.

Antalya offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Catania. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

Is Antalya or Catania a more walkable city?

Catania 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.

Catania is a very walkable destination. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

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 Catania Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Catania or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Catania?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antalya or Catania to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antalya than Catania because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-2 days is enough time in Catania.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Catania. 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 Catania. 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 Catania 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 Catania?

In Antalya, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Catania, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This port 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 Catania?

In Antalya, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer.

In Catania, 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 Catania has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Catania?

Antalya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Catania 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.

A week in Antalya or Catania?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antalya. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Catania. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Catania. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Catania, 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 Catania Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Catania?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Catania. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Catania, 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 Catania?

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 Antalya or Catania in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Catania. 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 Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Catania. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Catania fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Catania. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 325 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Catania. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Catania receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Catania in the Autumn?

Both Catania and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Catania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Antalya is around the same temperature as Catania in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Catania fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Catania during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Catania. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Catania. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Catania receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Catania in the Winter?

Both Catania and Antalya during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antalya in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Catania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

In the winter, Antalya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Catania. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 153 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Catania. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Catania receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Catania in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Catania. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Catania because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Catania. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Catania fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Catania during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives more rain than Catania. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Catania receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Catania and Antalya