A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Bari for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Cagliari or Bari?

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 Bari can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a under-rated, laid back, and relaxed city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cagliari and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Bari?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cagliari than Bari. While Bari is larger than Cagliari, Cagliari has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cagliari is more popular for its beaches, while Bari is known for its food. Cagliari is more touristy than Bari and is known for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also home to Castello. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Cagliari different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Bari can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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

Bari is an amazing port city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Bari has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

Dining out in Cagliari is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Cagliari or Bari Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cagliari and Bari.

Cagliari has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Bari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Cagliari or Bari Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is a great city for the beach. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its beaches.

Many people visit Cagliari for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Cagliari or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari and Bari 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 Bari to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Bari?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Cagliari and Bari.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cagliari. 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.

Many visitors go to Bari to go shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Cagliari or Bari Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Cagliari or Bari.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cagliari is very family-friendly. 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!

Bari is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Is Cagliari or Bari Better for Couples?

Cagliari is a great city for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Cagliari is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Cagliari or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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 Bari Better for Students?

Bari is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Bari is very popular with students. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

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 Bari Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cagliari and Bari.

Cagliari has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

You'll find some public transit in Bari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Cagliari or Bari a more walkable city?

Cagliari and Bari are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Bari is a very walkable destination. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cagliari and Bari. In our opinion, Bari has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bari than Cagliari. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Cagliari than Bari. 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 Bari 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 Bari.

One day in Cagliari or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cagliari. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The port city of Bari 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.

A weekend in Cagliari or Bari?

Cagliari is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bari 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 Bari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cagliari or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Cagliari. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bari is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

A week in Cagliari or Bari?

The under-rated city of Cagliari offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Bari is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

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 Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Cagliari and Bari, we can see that Cagliari is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Bari, 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 Bari?

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 Cagliari or Bari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Bari. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cagliari in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari 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 Bari during summer. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Bari. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cagliari or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Bari. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Bari because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 18°C (65°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Bari. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in October than Bari. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Bari during winter. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Bari. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cagliari or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Cagliari during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cagliari in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the spring, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Cagliari