A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Como for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cagliari or Como?

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

Cagliari

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

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Cagliari and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Como?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cagliari than Como, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cagliari is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Como is known for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Como is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Cagliari is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also home to Castello.

How is Cagliari different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cagliari is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cagliari can be an interesting and educational experience. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

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

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Como has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Cagliari has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Cagliari or Como Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cagliari. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Como. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Cagliari or Como Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to see the historical old town. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Cagliari or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Como?

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

Known for shopping, Como draws large crowds to its stores. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

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 Como Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Cagliari or Como.

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!

Como is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Is Cagliari or Como Better for Couples?

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Como has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Couples visit Cagliari frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Cagliari or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Como 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 Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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 Como Better for Students?

Cagliari is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Como is not popular with students.

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

Como is not popular with students.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Cagliari or Como a more walkable city?

Cagliari and Como are excellent 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.

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Como or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Cagliari or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Como due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cagliari, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Como?

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 beautiful lake area of Como offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Como?

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.

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

Five days in Cagliari or Como?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated 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.

Como 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.

A week in Cagliari or Como?

The laid back 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.

Como is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This lake area 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cagliari and Como, we can see that Como 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como 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 Como Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Como?

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

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 Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cagliari in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Como averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Como. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Como during summer. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Como. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cagliari or Como in the Autumn?

Both Como and Cagliari during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Como in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cagliari is generally a little warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 18°C (65°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Como. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

Como gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cagliari usually gets less rain in October than Como. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Como in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Como. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Como for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Como can be very cold during winter. Cagliari is much warmer than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Como during winter. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Como. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cagliari or Como in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Como. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Como because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cagliari in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Como averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In the spring, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Como. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in April than Como. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Cagliari