A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cagliari vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Cagliari or Barcelona?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cagliari and Barcelona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a laid back, relaxed, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a youthful, colorful, and laid-back city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Cagliari and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Cagliari. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cagliari attracts visitors for its beaches. Barcelona is more touristy than Cagliari and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches.

How is Cagliari different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Barcelona and Cagliari. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cagliari or Barcelona?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Cagliari and Barcelona.

Many visitors head to Cagliari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Cagliari or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cagliari and Barcelona can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Cagliari has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

Dining out in Barcelona is an experience not to be missed. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Barcelona has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Cagliari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Cagliari is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Barcelona. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Cagliari is not a live music destination.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

The beaches at Cagliari attract visitors from all over. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari and Barcelona are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cagliari. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Barcelona?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Barcelona draws large crowds to its stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to go shopping. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for Families?

Cagliari is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cagliari is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for Couples?

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

Cagliari is a very popular place to visit for couples. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Barcelona is extremely popular for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Cagliari is popular with students. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

You'll find some public transit in Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Cagliari or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Cagliari is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Cagliari is very walkable. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Cagliari Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Barcelona?

Both Cagliari and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Cagliari. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cagliari, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Cagliari 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 Barcelona.

One day in Cagliari or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Cagliari. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cagliari has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cagliari or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Cagliari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cagliari or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Cagliari. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cagliari or Barcelona?

Cagliari is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Barcelona, 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 Cagliari or Barcelona?

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 Cagliari or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Barcelona. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 24°C (75°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In the summer, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in July than Barcelona. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during autumn. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cagliari or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Cagliari during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cagliari is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cagliari in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Cagliari often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Barcelona. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Barcelona. The spring months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In April, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 14°C (57°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Cagliari, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during spring. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Cagliari