A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Cagliari or Florence?

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

Cagliari

Cagliari is a under-rated, laid back, and relaxed city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cagliari and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Florence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Florence than Cagliari. Florence is bigger than Cagliari, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Florence is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cagliari is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Florence is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Cagliari is well known for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches.

How is Cagliari different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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.

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

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

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Cagliari has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Cagliari or Florence Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is a great city for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Cagliari or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Florence offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Florence?

Florence is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Cagliari is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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!

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Cagliari or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is an amazing city 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, Florence has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Florence 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 Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Cagliari and Florence.

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

You'll find some public transit in Florence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Cagliari or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Florence. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Florence?

Both Cagliari and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Cagliari. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cagliari, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Florence?

The city of Cagliari 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.

The beautiful city of Florence offers food and shopping. 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 Florence?

Cagliari is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cagliari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this 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 Florence, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cagliari or Florence?

Cagliari 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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, 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 Florence?

Cagliari 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 city offers something for everyone.

Florence 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 Florence 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 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 Florence, we can see that Florence 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence 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 Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Florence?

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

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Florence. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence 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 Florence during summer. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Florence. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cagliari or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Florence. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cagliari is a little warmer than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cagliari in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Florence. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Cagliari is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 10°C (50°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Florence during winter. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Florence. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cagliari or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Cagliari during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the spring, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florence. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Cagliari