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

Should you visit Cadiz or Catania?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cadiz and Catania can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a friendly, undiscovered, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Catania

Catania is a historic, lively, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cadiz and Catania: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cadiz or Catania?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Catania than Cadiz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Catania is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Cadiz attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Catania is more touristy than Cadiz and is known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also well known for Mount Etna. Cadiz is famous for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Cadiz different from Catania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cadiz or Catania?

Both Cadiz and Catania have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cadiz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

Catania offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Cadiz or Catania? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Catania is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Catania have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Cadiz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Is Cadiz or Catania Better for Nightlife?

Catania is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Catania offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Cadiz or Catania Better for Beaches?

Catania is a port city with good options for its beaches. However, Cadiz is not a good port city for the beache.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Catania. 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.

You can check out the beach in Cadiz. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Is Cadiz or Catania Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz 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 Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

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 Cadiz or Catania Better for Hiking?

Catania is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Catania is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Catania?

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

Cadiz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

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 Cadiz or Catania Better for Families?

Catania is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Cadiz is a family-friendly port city. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.

Is Cadiz or Catania Better for Couples?

Both Cadiz and Catania are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cadiz is a nice destination for couples. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

Catania makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Cadiz or Catania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cadiz. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

Is Cadiz or Catania Better for Students?

Catania is a well-known place for students. However, Cadiz is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Catania. 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.

Cadiz is not popular with students.

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

Catania is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Catania is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Cadiz has some public transit options. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

Is Cadiz or Catania a more walkable city?

Cadiz and Catania both are superb when exploring on foot.

Cadiz is very walkable. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Cadiz Worth Visiting? and Is Catania Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Catania or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Catania?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cadiz or Catania to fill your time. In our opinion, Catania has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Catania than Cadiz. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Catania than Cadiz 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 Catania.

One day in Cadiz or Catania?

In Cadiz, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

In Catania, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this youthful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Cadiz or Catania?

In Cadiz, 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 Cadiz has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Catania. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cadiz or Catania?

Cadiz 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.

Catania is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Catania. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cadiz or Catania?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cadiz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cadiz. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cadiz and Catania, we can see that Cadiz is more expensive. And not only is Catania much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Catania would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Catania and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cadiz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cadiz than you might in Catania.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cadiz Expensive? and Is Catania Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Catania?

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

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 Cadiz or Catania in the Summer?

Both Catania and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cadiz is around the same temperature as Catania. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cadiz in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Catania averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Catania. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Catania during summer. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Catania. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Catania receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cadiz or Catania in the Autumn?

Both Catania and Cadiz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Catania because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Cadiz is generally around the same temperature as Catania. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 20°C (68°F), and Catania fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the autumn, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Catania. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 189 hours of full sun.

Catania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cadiz usually gets less rain in October than Catania. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Catania receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cadiz or Catania in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Catania. The winter months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Catania this time of year.

Cadiz is a little warmer than Catania in the winter. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Catania fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Catania during winter. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cadiz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Catania. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Catania receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cadiz or Catania in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Catania. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Catania for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cadiz is a little warmer than Catania. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cadiz in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Catania averages at about 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In the spring, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Catania. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 204 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets more rain in April than Catania. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Catania receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Catania and Cadiz