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

Should you visit Cadiz or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne 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 authentic, friendly, and undiscovered port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cadiz and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cadiz or Lucerne?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Cadiz. While Cadiz is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is better known for its museums, nightlife, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cadiz is more popular for its beaches. Lucerne is more touristy than Cadiz and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge. Cadiz is well known for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Cadiz different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cadiz
Lucerne

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cadiz
Lucerne

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Cadiz and Lucerne.

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.

Lucerne has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Cadiz or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Cadiz
Lucerne

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

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 Lucerne Better for Beaches?

Cadiz
Lucerne

Cadiz is adequate for the beach. However, Lucerne is not a beach destination.

The beach in Cadiz is worth checking out. 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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.


Is Cadiz or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz
Lucerne

Both Cadiz and Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Lucerne?

Cadiz
Lucerne

Both Cadiz and Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is well-known for its shopping. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Cadiz or Lucerne Better for Families?

Cadiz
Lucerne

Both Cadiz and Lucerne are notable 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly port city. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.


Is Cadiz or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Cadiz
Lucerne

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cadiz
Lucerne

Cadiz is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

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

Cadiz
Lucerne

Both Cadiz and Lucerne offer notable public transit options.

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

Lucerne has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.


Is Cadiz or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Cadiz
Lucerne

Cadiz is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Cadiz is a very walkable destination. 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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Lucerne?

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

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

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


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

One day in Cadiz or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne. 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 Lucerne?

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.

Lucerne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lucerne. 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 Lucerne?

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 cultural destination of Lucerne. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne 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 Lucerne is €200. 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 Lucerne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cadiz 77
    Lucerne 128
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cadiz 154
    Lucerne 256
Compare Hotels in Cadiz and Lucerne

Looking for a hotel in Cadiz or Lucerne? 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 Lucerne


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 Lucerne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cadiz 30
    Lucerne 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cadiz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cadiz:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

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

  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744

Is it cheaper to fly into Cadiz or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne 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
    Lucerne 58
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 Lucerne

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

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cadiz 27
    Lucerne 32
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:

  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Cadiz : $87
  • 3 Hour Tapa and Cultural Experience Walking Tour: $120
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Cádiz: $17
  • Audioguided Tour of Cádiz Monumental, at your pace: $4.27
  • Cádiz 2:45h Bike Tour: $38
  • Cádiz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Cádiz: Cadiz Milenaria Guided Tour: $13
  • Cádiz: Guided Bike Tour: $37
  • Cádiz: Local Tapas Experience: $160
  • Cádiz: Mysteries and Legends Walking Tour with Souvenir: $25
  • Cádiz: Private Guided Tour with Flexible Route: $106
  • Cádiz: Private Sun Cruise for 2 with Aperitivo and Wine: $481

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    32
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    33

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lucerne.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Revealing Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Smartphone walking tour - cool Lucerne old town: $5.47
  • Walking Tour - Around the Old Town Lucerne: $5.60
  • The Lives and Legends of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Lucerne Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour with an Official Guide: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cadiz 28
    Lucerne 21

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 Lucerne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucerne:

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cadiz and Lucerne, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Cadiz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cadiz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cadiz 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Cadiz.

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


Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Lucerne?

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

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 Cadiz or Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Lucerne. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cadiz is generally a little warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 25°C (77°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In the summer, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in July than Lucerne. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F) 
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cadiz is much warmer than Lucerne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during autumn. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cadiz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lucerne. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F) 
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Lucerne in the Winter?

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

Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cadiz is much warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cadiz in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Lucerne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in January than Lucerne. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F) 
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Lucerne in the Spring?

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

In April, Cadiz is generally a little warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 17°C (63°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during spring. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F) 
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Cadiz

Cadiz Lucerne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)