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

Should you visit Cadiz or Ghent?

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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a historic, under-rated, and youthful city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cadiz and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cadiz or Ghent?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ghent than Cadiz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ghent is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Cadiz is known for its beaches. Ghent is more touristy than Cadiz and is known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also home to The Fortress of Gravensteen. Cadiz is popular for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Cadiz different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cadiz
Ghent

Ghent is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

Cadiz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Cadiz
Ghent

Ghent is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Cadiz
Ghent

Ghent is renowned for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Ghent is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent Better for Beaches?

Cadiz
Ghent

Cadiz is a moderate port city for its beaches. However, Ghent 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.

Ghent is not a beach destination.


Is Cadiz or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz
Ghent

Both Cadiz and Ghent have very good historic old towns worth visiting.

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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Ghent?

Cadiz
Ghent

Both Cadiz and Ghent are very good shopping destinations.

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.

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Cadiz or Ghent Better for Families?

Cadiz
Ghent

Both Cadiz and Ghent 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly port city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.


Is Cadiz or Ghent Better for Couples?

Cadiz
Ghent

Ghent is a well-known place for romance. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Cadiz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Cadiz or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cadiz
Ghent

Both Cadiz and Ghent are good destinations for backpackers.

Cadiz is a good port city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Cadiz or Ghent Better for Students?

Cadiz
Ghent

Ghent is renowned for students. However, Cadiz is not popular with students.

Ghent is a very popular city for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Cadiz is not popular with students.


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

Cadiz
Ghent

Ghent is renowned 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.

Ghent has a great public transit system. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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

Is Cadiz or Ghent a more walkable city?

Cadiz
Ghent

Cadiz and Ghent both are very good 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.

Ghent is a very walkable port city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Ghent?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Cadiz or Ghent? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cadiz 1-2 
    Ghent 1-3

One day in Cadiz or Ghent?

In Cadiz, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this undiscovered destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Ghent, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This 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 Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cadiz. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Ghent?

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

Ghent is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ghent. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cadiz or Ghent?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Cadiz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the high energy destination of Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Ghent or Cadiz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cadiz is €152, while the average daily cost in Ghent is €118. 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 Cadiz and Ghent in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cadiz 77
    Ghent 72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cadiz 154
    Ghent 144
Compare Hotels in Cadiz and Ghent

Looking for a hotel in Cadiz or Ghent? 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 Cadiz


Hotels in Ghent


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: Cadiz Hotel Prices and Ghent Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cadiz 30
    Ghent 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cadiz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cadiz:

  • Private Transfer from Cadiz city hotels to Cadiz Cruise Port: $28
  • Private Transfer from/to Cadiz Airport to/from Hotel: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Business Car: $147
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $166
  • Ghent <-> Amsterdam Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 Seats): $229
  • Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Cadiz or Ghent?

Prices for flights to both Ghent and Cadiz 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
    Cadiz 45
    Ghent 35
Typical Food Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Dinner and Tapas
    15
  • Lunch for 1
    10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cadiz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cadiz.

  • Tapas Food Tour in Jerez de la Frontera: $39
  • Food Tour Cadiz: $75
  • Tabancos Food Tour Jerez: $92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ghent.

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
  • Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cadiz 27
    Ghent 8.64
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Cadiz Sightseeing Tour
    15

Tours and Activities in Cadiz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cadiz are as follows:

  • Audioguided Tour of Cádiz Monumental, at your pace: $4.27
  • Cadiz Town Center Outdoor Escape Game: A Story Adventure: $6.94
  • Story Adventure Outdoor Escape Game in Cadiz Town Center : $7.07
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Cádiz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Historical Walking Tour: $11
  • City Center Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Guided tour of Cádiz: stories from the hand of a local guide: $11
  • Cádiz: Cadiz Milenaria Guided Tour: $13
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Charming Cadiz: $15
  • Cádiz: Self-Guided Audio Smartphone App Tour: $15
  • Discover Cádiz walking tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Ghent

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ghent are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.26
  • Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent: $5.45
  • Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cadiz 28
    Ghent 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Cadiz

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cadiz:

  • Private Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Bike Rental: $107
  • Countryside Olive Oil & Wine Tasting: $128

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $245


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Ghent?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Cadiz. When comparing the sizes of Cadiz and Ghent, 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent in the Summer?

Both Ghent and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences.

Cadiz is a little warmer than Ghent in the summer. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Ghent. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during summer. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Ghent. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F) 
    Ghent 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Ghent in the Autumn?

Both Ghent and Cadiz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cadiz is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cadiz in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Ghent averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the autumn, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in October than Ghent. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F) 
    Ghent 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Ghent in the Winter?

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

Ghent can be very cold during winter. In January, Cadiz is generally much warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 13°C (55°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during winter. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cadiz usually receives more rain than Ghent. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F) 
    Ghent 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Ghent in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Ghent. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty.

Cadiz is much warmer than Ghent in the spring. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 17°C (63°F) in April, and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°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 Ghent. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Ghent. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F) 
    Ghent 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Ghent and Cadiz

Cadiz Ghent
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)