A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Cefalu for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Arachova or Cefalu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Cefalu, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a historic, touristy, and charming fishing village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Arachova and Cefalu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Arachova or Cefalu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Cefalu are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Cefalu attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Arachova is famous for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Cefalu is famous for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food.

How is Arachova different from Cefalu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Cefalu

Arachova is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cefalu is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Cefalu is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Cefalu?

Arachova
Cefalu

Arachova is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Cefalu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Cefalu

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Cefalu can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Cefalu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Cefalu

Arachova is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Arachova has a large number of nightlife venues. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.


Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for Resorts?

Arachova
Cefalu

Cefalu is well known for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Cefalu is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Cefalu

Cefalu is well known for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cefalu. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Cefalu

Arachova and Cefalu both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Cefalu is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.


Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Cefalu

Arachova is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Cefalu?

Arachova
Cefalu

Arachova is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for Families?

Arachova
Cefalu

Arachova is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Arachova is very family-friendly. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.


Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for Couples?

Arachova
Cefalu

Cefalu is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Cefalu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Arachova or Cefalu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Cefalu

Arachova is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Arachova has some public transit options. There are some public buses in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Arachova or Cefalu a more walkable city?

Arachova
Cefalu

Cefalu is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Cefalu is very walkable. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Cefalu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cefalu or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Cefalu?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Cefalu. In our opinion, Arachova has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arachova than Cefalu. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cefalu.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arachova than Cefalu 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 Arachova.


  • How many days in Arachova or Cefalu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Cefalu 1-3

One day in Arachova or Cefalu?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Arachova. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Cefalu is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Cefalu?

Arachova is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Arachova or Cefalu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cefalu 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 Arachova or Cefalu?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Arachova. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Cefalu 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 fishing village offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Cefalu or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Cefalu is €119. 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 Arachova and Cefalu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Cefalu 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Cefalu 174
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Cefalu

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Cefalu? 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 Arachova


Hotels in Cefalu


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: Cefalu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Cefalu 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

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

  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $104
  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $174

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Cefalu?

Prices for flights to both Cefalu and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Cefalu 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Cefalu 5.71

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

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

  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $224
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $272

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Cefalu 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Cefalu

Also in Cefalu, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49


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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Cefalu?

Cefalu has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Cefalu, 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 Arachova or Cefalu?

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 Arachova or Cefalu in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Cefalu. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Cefalu in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arachova is around the same temperature as Cefalu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Cefalu averages at about 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Cefalu. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 325 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets more rain in July than Cefalu. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Cefalu in the Autumn?

Both Cefalu and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Cefalu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Cefalu. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Cefalu fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Cefalu during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Cefalu. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Cefalu 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Cefalu in the Winter?

Both Cefalu and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Cefalu in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Cefalu fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cefalu. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 153 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Cefalu. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Cefalu 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Cefalu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Cefalu. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year.

In the spring, Arachova is around the same temperature as Cefalu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Cefalu averages at about 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Cefalu during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Cefalu. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Cefalu and Arachova

Arachova Cefalu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)


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