A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Rome for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cagliari or Rome?

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

Cagliari

Cagliari is a historic, under-rated, and laid back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Rome

Rome is a fun-filled, popular, and ancient city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cagliari and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Cagliari, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cagliari is known for its beaches and historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Cagliari and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Cagliari is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches.

The Colosseum

How is Cagliari different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome 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 Rome are world-renowned. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Rome has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Rome has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

Cagliari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Cagliari or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Cagliari is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Cagliari is not a live music destination.

Is Cagliari or Rome Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is a great destination for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Cagliari attract visitors from all over. 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Cagliari or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Cagliari is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Rome?

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

Known for shopping, Rome draws large crowds to its stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome Better for Families?

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

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!

Rome is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Is Cagliari or Rome Better for Couples?

Both Cagliari and Rome 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 Rome frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Cagliari or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome 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, Rome is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

Rome 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 Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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

Rome is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Rome is top-notch. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

You'll find some public transit in Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Cagliari or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome 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 Rome. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Rome?

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

Families should spend more time in Rome than Cagliari. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Rome, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Rome?

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.

Rome is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Rome?

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.

Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cagliari or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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.

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

The historic 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.

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome 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 Rome, we can see that Rome 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 Rome would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rome 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 Rome Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome 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 Rome in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cagliari in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In Rome, 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 Rome. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in July than Rome. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Rome in the Autumn?

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

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

Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during autumn. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Rome. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cagliari or Rome in the Winter?

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

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

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

Cagliari usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome 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 activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Rome. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during spring. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Rome. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Cagliari