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

Should you visit Cadiz or Taormina?

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 Taormina 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.

Taormina

Taormina is a exclusive, opulent, and historic town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cadiz and Taormina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cadiz or Taormina?

Both Taormina and Cadiz have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Cadiz is better known for its historical sights and shopping, while Taormina is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Taormina is more touristy than Cadiz and is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. Cadiz is well known for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Cadiz different from Taormina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cadiz
Taormina

Both Cadiz and Taormina have notable 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.

Taormina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.


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

Cadiz
Taormina

Taormina 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, Taormina makes for a great culinary experience. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

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 Taormina Better for Nightlife?

Cadiz
Taormina

Taormina 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.

Taormina offers plenty to do in the evening. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

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 Taormina Better for Resorts?

Cadiz
Taormina

Taormina is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Cadiz is not a resort destination.

In Taormina, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Cadiz is not a resort destination.


Is Cadiz or Taormina Better for Beaches?

Cadiz
Taormina

Taormina is a town 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 Taormina. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

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 Taormina Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz
Taormina

Cadiz is a great port city for its historic old town charm. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Taormina?

Cadiz
Taormina

Cadiz is a great port city for its shopping areas. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cadiz. 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.

Taormina is a great destination for shopping. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.


Is Cadiz or Taormina Better for Families?

Cadiz
Taormina

Cadiz is a port city with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Cadiz offers lots of family activities. 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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Cadiz or Taormina Better for Couples?

Cadiz
Taormina

Taormina 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.

Taormina is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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 Taormina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cadiz
Taormina

Cadiz is a port city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known 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.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.


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

Cadiz
Taormina

Both Cadiz and Taormina 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.

Taormina has some public transit options. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

Is Cadiz or Taormina a more walkable city?

Cadiz
Taormina

Cadiz and Taormina 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.

Taormina is a very walkable port city. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Taormina or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Taormina?

It's fun to spend time in either Cadiz or Taormina. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Taormina due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cadiz, and 2-4 days is enough time in Taormina.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cadiz than Taormina 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 Taormina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cadiz 1-2 
    Taormina 2-4

One day in Cadiz or Taormina?

The port city of Cadiz offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Taormina is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town 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 Taormina?

Cadiz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cadiz, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Taormina?

Cadiz is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Taormina is a fun place to experience. Taormina is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cadiz or Taormina?

Cadiz is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Taormina is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Taormina 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 Taormina is €108. 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 Taormina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cadiz 77
    Taormina 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cadiz 154
    Taormina 140
Compare Hotels in Cadiz and Taormina

Looking for a hotel in Cadiz or Taormina? 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 Taormina


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 Taormina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cadiz 30
    Taormina 4.29

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 Taormina

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

  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49
  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Cadiz or Taormina?

Prices for flights to both Taormina 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
    Taormina 33
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cadiz 27
    Taormina 11
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

Tours and Activities in Taormina

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

  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Tour di Taormina, Savoca e Forza D' Agro': $139
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • Tour da Messina a Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella: $695
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cadiz 28
    Taormina 8.57

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 Taormina

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

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Taormina?

Cadiz has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Cadiz and Taormina, 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 Taormina?

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 Taormina in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Taormina. The summer months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Taormina this time of year.

In July, Cadiz is generally around the same temperature as Taormina. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 25°C (77°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Taormina. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In the summer, Cadiz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Taormina. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in July than Taormina. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F) 
    Taormina 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Taormina in the Autumn?

Both Taormina and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Taormina for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cadiz is around the same temperature as Taormina in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Taormina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Taormina during autumn. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Taormina. In October, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Taormina. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F) 
    Taormina 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Taormina in the Winter?

Both Taormina and Cadiz during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Taormina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cadiz is around the same temperature as Taormina. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cadiz in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Taormina averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Taormina. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 115 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Taormina. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F) 
    Taormina 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Taormina in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Taormina. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cadiz is generally around the same temperature as Taormina. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 17°C (63°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Taormina this time of the year. In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Taormina during spring. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cadiz usually receives more rain than Taormina. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F) 
    Taormina 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Taormina and Cadiz

Cadiz Taormina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in) 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)