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

Should you visit Cadiz or Utrecht?

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 Utrecht 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.

Utrecht

This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cadiz and Utrecht: 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Cadiz or Utrecht?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Utrecht than Cadiz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Utrecht is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cadiz is known for its beaches. Utrecht is more touristy than Cadiz and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. It is also home to the Dom Tower. Cadiz is popular for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Cadiz different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cadiz
Utrecht

Both Cadiz and Utrecht have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cadiz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.


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

Cadiz
Utrecht

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

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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Cadiz or Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

Cadiz
Utrecht

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

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 Utrecht Better for Beaches?

Cadiz
Utrecht

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

Utrecht is not a beach destination.


Is Cadiz or Utrecht Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz
Utrecht

Utrecht is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Utrecht is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Utrecht?

Cadiz
Utrecht

Both Cadiz and Utrecht are excellent 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.

Utrecht is well-known for its shopping. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Is Cadiz or Utrecht Better for Families?

Cadiz
Utrecht

Both Cadiz and Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly port city. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.


Is Cadiz or Utrecht Better for Couples?

Cadiz
Utrecht

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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 Utrecht Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cadiz
Utrecht

Utrecht is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Utrecht. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cadiz. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

Is Cadiz or Utrecht Better for Students?

Cadiz
Utrecht

Utrecht is a well-known place for students. However, Cadiz is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Utrecht. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Cadiz is not popular with students.


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

Cadiz
Utrecht

Utrecht 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 Utrecht is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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

Is Cadiz or Utrecht a more walkable city?

Cadiz
Utrecht

Utrecht is renowned for its walkability. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Utrecht on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

Cadiz is a very walkable port city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Utrecht or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Utrecht?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Cadiz or Utrecht?

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

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 Utrecht. 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 Utrecht?

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.

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

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 vibrant destination of Utrecht. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Utrecht 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 Utrecht is €189. 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 Utrecht in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cadiz 77
    Utrecht 106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cadiz 154
    Utrecht 212
Compare Hotels in Cadiz and Utrecht

Looking for a hotel in Cadiz or Utrecht? 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 Utrecht


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 Utrecht Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cadiz 30
    Utrecht 23

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 Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Cadiz or Utrecht?

Prices for flights to both Utrecht 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
    Utrecht 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 Utrecht

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

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $70
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cadiz 27
    Utrecht 44
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 Utrecht

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

  • Hoge Woerd Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $4.28
  • Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.45
  • Highlights walking Tour in Utrecht with Audio and GPS Guide: $6.06
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • De Haar Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $7.49
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Lofen Palace Time Travel with Entry Ticket & Guide: $12
  • Guided Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Dom Tower Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cadiz 28
    Utrecht 24

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 Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cadiz and Utrecht, we can see that Utrecht 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 Utrecht would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Utrecht 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 Utrecht Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Utrecht?

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

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 Utrecht in the Summer?

Both Utrecht and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Utrecht in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Cadiz is a little warmer than Utrecht in the summer. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Utrecht fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during summer. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Utrecht. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F) 
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Utrecht in the Autumn?

Both Utrecht and Cadiz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cadiz is much warmer than Utrecht. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cadiz in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Utrecht averages at about 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the autumn, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Utrecht. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 100 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Utrecht. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F) 
    Utrecht 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Utrecht in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Utrecht. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Utrecht can be very cold. In January, Cadiz is generally much warmer than Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 13°C (55°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during winter. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cadiz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Utrecht. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F) 
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Utrecht in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Utrecht. The spring months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year.

Cadiz is much warmer than Utrecht in the spring. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 17°C (63°F) in April, and Utrecht fluctuates around 8°C (46°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 Utrecht. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 156 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in April than Utrecht. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F) 
    Utrecht 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Utrecht and Cadiz

Cadiz Utrecht
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)