A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Imperia for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Cagliari or Imperia?

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

Cagliari

Cagliari is a laid back, relaxed, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cagliari and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Cagliari or Imperia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cagliari. Although Cagliari and Imperia are both popular with visitors, Cagliari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cagliari is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Imperia is known for its impressive beauty. Cagliari is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also home to Castello. Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Cagliari different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Cagliari offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Cagliari or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Cagliari has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Cagliari or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is notable for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Cagliari is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.


Is Cagliari or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cagliari. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Imperia?

Cagliari
Imperia

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

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 Imperia to go shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Cagliari or Imperia Better for Families?

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cagliari is known to be 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!

Imperia is a family-friendly city. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.


Is Cagliari or Imperia Better for Couples?

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Cagliari or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari and Imperia are both good destinations for backpackers.

Cagliari is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

It's common for backpackers to visit Imperia. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Cagliari or Imperia Better for Students?

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is a popular place for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Cagliari is a good city to visit for students. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Imperia is not popular with students.


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

Cagliari
Imperia

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Imperia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

Is Cagliari or Imperia a more walkable city?

Cagliari
Imperia

Cagliari is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cagliari or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cagliari than Imperia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cagliari, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

Families should spend more time in Cagliari than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Cagliari than Imperia 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 Cagliari.


  • How many days in Cagliari or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cagliari 1-3 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Cagliari or Imperia?

In Cagliari, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The town of Imperia offers food and shopping. 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 Imperia?

In Cagliari, 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 Cagliari has to offer.

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

Five days in Cagliari or Imperia?

Cagliari is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cagliari. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cagliari. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Imperia is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Cagliari?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cagliari is €120, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. 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 Cagliari and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cagliari 66
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cagliari 132
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Cagliari and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Cagliari or Imperia? 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 Cagliari


Hotels in Imperia


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: Cagliari Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cagliari 31
    Imperia 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cagliari

Also for Cagliari, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Cagliari hotels to Cagliari Cruise Port: $26
  • Transfer / taxi Cagliari Airport - Cagliari city: $60
  • Cagliari Elmas Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Cagliari: $65
  • Private Transfer Cagliari airport City - Orosei city Marina: $513

Is it cheaper to fly into Cagliari or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Cagliari 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
    Cagliari 35
    Imperia 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cagliari

For Cagliari, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sardinia Cooking Class: Fresh Handmade Pasta: $75
  • Cooking Class and Wine Tasting: $80
  • Homemade fresh pasta cooking: $82
  • Sardinia Traditional Food Tour: $87
  • Sardinian Cooking Class with Meal and Drinks: $96
  • Traditional Sardinian Lunch and Cooking Class In Cagliari: $116
  • Romantic sunset dinner experience with private chef: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cagliari 17
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Cagliari

For Cagliari, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Train ticket to travel between airport and city: $1.59
  • Pinuccio Sciola Museum: Giardino Sonoro Guided Tour: $8.56
  • Conti Vecchi Salt Flats Train and Tour: $13
  • Museum of Nuragic Civilization Entry Ticket: $19
  • Walking Tour of the Old City: $21
  • Climbing Experience beneath the ancient walls: $26
  • Underground Cagliari Walking Tour: $27
  • Nocturne Karalis, night tour in Cagliari: $27
  • walking tour through the alleys of Castello: $30
  • Sardinia Escape Experience: Be a detective on the road: $32
  • Cagliari sunset tour with aperitif - Lighthouse Capo S.Elia: $37
  • 2 hours sightseeing tour by e-bike: $37

Tours and Activities in Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cagliari 7.57
    Imperia 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Cagliari

Also in Cagliari, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Guided Artisanal Food and Wine Tasting Experience: $48
  • WINE TOUR with sommelier in a winery near Cagliari: $66
  • Small-Group Food and Wine Tour from Cagliari: $98
  • Wine Tour Sardinia: $107
  • Wine tour aroud vineyards of Cagliari : $109
  • Wine Tasting & Winery Tour: $266
  • Full-Day Private Wine Tasting with Lunch: $641


When comparing the travel costs between Cagliari and Imperia, 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 Imperia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Imperia?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Imperia. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Imperia because of the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Imperia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In the summer, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in July than Imperia. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cagliari 24°C (75°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

In October, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 18°C (65°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during autumn. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Imperia. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cagliari 18°C (65°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Imperia in the Winter?

Both Imperia and Cagliari during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Imperia in the winter. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in January than Imperia. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cagliari 10°C (50°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Imperia. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Imperia in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cagliari in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Imperia averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In Cagliari, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during spring. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Imperia. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cagliari 14°C (57°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Cagliari

Cagliari Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 10°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 24°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 26 mm (1 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 18°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)