A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cadiz vs. Galway for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Cadiz or Galway?

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 Galway 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 gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Galway

Galway is a cultural, historical, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cadiz and Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cadiz or Galway?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Galway than Cadiz. While Cadiz is larger than Galway, Galway has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Galway is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Cadiz is known for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cadiz is popular for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town. Galway is popular for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music. It is also home to The Galway Market.

How is Cadiz different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Cadiz and Galway have good 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.

Galway offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cadiz or Galway? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Cadiz and Galway.

Cadiz offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Cadiz or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Galway 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.

Galway offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

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 Galway Better for Beaches?

Cadiz is a moderate port city for its beaches. However, Galway is not a beach destination.

Cadiz is a good spot to see the beach. 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.

Galway is not a beach destination.

Is Cadiz or Galway Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz is notable for its historic old town. However, Galway does not have a historic old town.

Cadiz is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Galway does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Galway?

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

Cadiz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Cadiz or Galway Better for Families?

Both Cadiz and Galway are good to visit with kids.

Cadiz is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Galway is a family-friendly port city. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Cadiz or Galway Better for Couples?

Both Cadiz and Galway are good 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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Cadiz or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galway 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 Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

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 Galway Better for Students?

Galway is a city with good options for students. However, Cadiz is not popular with students.

Galway is a good city to visit for students. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Cadiz is not popular with students.

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

Both Cadiz and Galway offer good public transit options.

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

Galway has some public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

Is Cadiz or Galway a more walkable city?

Cadiz and Galway both are great 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.

Galway is a very walkable port city. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Galway?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Galway 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 Galway.

One day in Cadiz or Galway?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cadiz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Galway, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Cadiz or Galway?

Cadiz 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galway. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cadiz. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Galway is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Galway. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cadiz or Galway?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Cadiz. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Galway. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cadiz and Galway, we can see that Cadiz is more expensive. And not only is Galway much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Galway would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Galway 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 Galway.

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

Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Galway?

Cadiz has a larger population, and is about 87% larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Cadiz and Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway in the Summer?

Both Galway and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

Cadiz is much warmer than Galway in the summer. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Galway fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Galway during summer. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Galway. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cadiz or Galway in the Autumn?

Both Galway and Cadiz during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Galway for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cadiz is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cadiz in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Galway averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the autumn, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Galway. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun.

Galway gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cadiz usually gets less rain in October than Galway. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cadiz or Galway in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Galway. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Galway in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cadiz is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 13°C (55°F), and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Galway during winter. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

Galway receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Galway. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cadiz or Galway in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Galway. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Galway for the activities around the city during these months.

Cadiz is much warmer than Galway in the spring. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 17°C (63°F) in April, and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In the spring, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Galway. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in April than Galway. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Galway and Cadiz