A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Positano for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cagliari or Positano?

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 Positano 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.

Positano

Positano is a luxurious, charming, and picturesque Mediterranean village. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cagliari and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cagliari. Although Cagliari and Positano are both popular with visitors, Cagliari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cagliari is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Positano is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Positano is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Cagliari is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also home to Castello.

How is Cagliari different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cagliari is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Positano has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Cagliari for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Cagliari or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Positano is a perfect choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Is Cagliari or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cagliari or Positano Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is great for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Cagliari or Positano Better for its Old Town?

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

Positano offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

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 Cagliari or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano 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 Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Positano?

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

Positano is well-known for its shopping. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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 Positano Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cagliari. 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!

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Cagliari or Positano Better for Couples?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village 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, Positano has plenty to offer. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari and Positano 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 Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Cagliari or Positano Better for Students?

Cagliari is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

It's common for students to 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.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Cagliari or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village 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 Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Positano?

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

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Positano?

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.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping 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 Positano?

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.

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

Five days in Cagliari or Positano?

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.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, 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 Positano?

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.

Positano is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer. This Mediterranean village 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 Positano, we can see that Positano 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 Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano 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 Positano Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Positano?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Positano. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Positano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cagliari in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Positano averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Positano 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 Positano during summer. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Positano. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cagliari or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Positano. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Positano because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Positano. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 18°C (65°F), and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Positano. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Cagliari usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano 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 shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

Cagliari is a little warmer than Positano in the winter. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Positano during winter. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In January, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Positano. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cagliari or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the spring, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Positano. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Cagliari