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

Should you visit Cadiz or Nantes?

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 Nantes 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 undiscovered, historic, and authentic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nantes

Nantes is a historical, beautiful, and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cadiz and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cadiz or Nantes?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nantes than Cadiz. Nantes is bigger than Cadiz, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nantes is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Cadiz is more popular for its beaches and historical sights. Nantes is more touristy than Cadiz and is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. Also, Nantes is famous for The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. Cadiz is well known for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Cadiz different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nantes 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 Nantes. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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 Nantes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantes 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 Nantes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Nantes 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.

Nantes offers plenty to do in the evening. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

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 Nantes Better for Beaches?

Cadiz is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Cadiz or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cadiz to see the historical old town. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Many visitors go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Nantes?

Both Cadiz and Nantes are high quality 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.

Nantes is well-known for its shopping. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Is Cadiz or Nantes Better for Families?

Nantes 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.

Nantes is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes Better for Couples?

Nantes 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.

Nantes is a very popular place to visit for couples. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cadiz is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Cadiz or Nantes Better for Students?

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

Nantes is a good city to visit for students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Cadiz is not popular with students.

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

Nantes 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 Nantes is fairly effecient and thorough. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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

Is Cadiz or Nantes a more walkable city?

Cadiz and Nantes both are high quality 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.

Nantes is a very walkable port city. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Nantes?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cadiz or Nantes?

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 Nantes, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes. 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 Nantes?

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.

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

A week in Cadiz or Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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 beautiful destination of Nantes. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Nantes?

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

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 Nantes in the Summer?

Both Nantes and Cadiz during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nantes because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cadiz is generally a little warmer than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 25°C (77°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Nantes, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the summer, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in July than Nantes. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cadiz or Nantes in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Nantes. The autumn months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantes this time of year.

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

In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during autumn. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Nantes. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cadiz or Nantes in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Nantes. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cadiz is much warmer than Nantes. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cadiz in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Nantes averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in January than Nantes. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cadiz or Nantes in the Spring?

Both Nantes and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Nantes in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Cadiz is generally much warmer than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 17°C (63°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during spring. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Nantes. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nantes and Cadiz