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

Should you visit Cagliari or Korcula?

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

Cagliari

Cagliari is a historic, under-rated, and laid back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Korcula

Korcula is a scenic, laid back, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cagliari and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cagliari or Korcula?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cagliari than Korcula, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cagliari is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Korcula is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty. Korcula is more touristy than Cagliari and is popular for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. Cagliari is well known for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. Also, Cagliari is famous for Castello.

How is Cagliari different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cagliari
Korcula

Cagliari is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cagliari. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.


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

Cagliari
Korcula

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cagliari and Korcula 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 Korcula is an experience not to be missed. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari
Korcula

Cagliari is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Cagliari know how to have a good time. 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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cagliari
Korcula

Korcula is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Cagliari
Korcula

Cagliari and Korcula are superb choices for a beach vacation.

Cagliari is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Korcula. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari
Korcula

Cagliari and Korcula 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 Korcula to see the historical old town. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Cagliari
Korcula

Korcula 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 Korcula. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Korcula?

Cagliari
Korcula

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Cagliari and Korcula.

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 Korcula to go shopping. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for Families?

Cagliari
Korcula

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Cagliari or Korcula.

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!

Korcula is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for Couples?

Cagliari
Korcula

Both Cagliari and Korcula are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Cagliari makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Couples visit Korcula frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.


Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari
Korcula

Cagliari and Korcula are both notable 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 Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Cagliari or Korcula Better for Students?

Cagliari
Korcula

Both Cagliari and Korcula are notable destinations for 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.

Korcula is popular with students. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

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

Cagliari
Korcula

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Korcula, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.


Is Cagliari or Korcula a more walkable city?

Cagliari
Korcula

Cagliari is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable city. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Korcula?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cagliari and Korcula. In our opinion, Cagliari has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cagliari than Korcula. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cagliari, and 2-3 days is enough time in Korcula.

Families should spend more time in Cagliari than Korcula. 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 Korcula. 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 Korcula 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 Korcula? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cagliari 1-3 
    Korcula 2-3

One day in Cagliari or Korcula?

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 beautiful island of Korcula offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Korcula?

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.

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


Five days in Cagliari or Korcula?

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.

Korcula 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula 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 island 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Korcula 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 Korcula is €90. 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 Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cagliari 66
    Korcula 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cagliari 132
    Korcula 116
Compare Hotels in Cagliari and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Cagliari or Korcula? 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 Korcula


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 Korcula Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cagliari 31
    Korcula 1.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cagliari

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Korcula

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Korcula:

  • Private One Way Transfer from Orebić to Dubrovnik: $205
  • Island Stupe / Moro Beach Transfer: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Cagliari or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula 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
    Korcula 28

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Korcula

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Korcula.

  • Private Half-Day Cooking Workshop Gastronomy in Korcula: $87
  • Korcula walking tour and dinner for Food Lovers: $228
  • Korčula: Island Yacht Cruise with Wine Tasting and Dinner: $321

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cagliari 17
    Korcula 11

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 Korcula

Here are a few actual costs in Korcula for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Hour Private Walking Tour in Korcula : $75
  • 3 Islands Tour - HopOnHopOff - Daily Ticket : $33
  • Bits of History - Half day kayak Tour: $66
  • City tour Korćula - private walking tour: $117
  • Croatia Korcula Island Buggy Safari Tour: $120
  • Dubrovnik Republic Tour From Korcula and Orebic: $98
  • From Dubrovnik Private tour to Korčula Island: $342
  • From Dubrovnik Old Town Private yacht cruise: $3,743
  • Half Day Original Buggy Adventure and Safari Tour in Korcula: $109
  • Half day Lago di Korcula Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour: $64
  • Jeanneau Prestige 440 Fly Private Boat Tour: $1,497
  • Korcula Island Mountain E Bike Tour: $186

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cagliari 7.57
    Korcula 9.69

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Korcula

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

  • Wine Tasting at Black Island Winery: $31
  • Slurp of Grk Wine Tour: $92
  • Day Tour from Dubrovnik - Korčula and Pelješac Wine Tasting: $92
  • Wine Tour Korcula: $98
  • Half-Day Bike Tour in Lumbarda with Wine Tasting: $105
  • Korcula Buggy Safari With Wine Tasting: $107
  • Korcula Bike & Wine Tour: $111
  • Private Korcula wine tour and tasting : $131
  • Wine tour Korčula - private tour: $146
  • Enchanted Forest Hike and Wine Tasting Private Tour: $158
  • Korcula Island Sightseeing Tour Including Wine Tasting: $229


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Korcula?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Korcula, 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula and Cagliari during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Korcula in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Korcula in the summer. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the summer, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in July than Korcula. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cagliari 24°C (75°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Korcula. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Korcula for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Korcula. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cagliari in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Korcula averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during autumn. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Korcula. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cagliari 18°C (65°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Korcula in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Korcula. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Korcula because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cagliari is generally a little warmer than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 10°C (50°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in January than Korcula. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cagliari 10°C (50°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Korcula in the spring. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during spring. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Korcula. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cagliari 14°C (57°F) 
    Korcula 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Korcula and Cagliari

Cagliari Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 10°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 24°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 26 mm (1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 18°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)