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

Should you visit Cagliari or Toulon?

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

Cagliari

Cagliari is a laid back, relaxed, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Toulon

Toulon is a off-the-beaten-path, real world, and industrial port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cagliari and Toulon: 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
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town


Is there more to do in Cagliari or Toulon?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cagliari than Toulon. While Toulon is larger than Cagliari, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Toulon attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cagliari is more touristy than Toulon and is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello. Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Cagliari different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Cagliari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.


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

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cagliari makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Cagliari or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Cagliari offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Cagliari or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cagliari
Toulon

Toulon 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 Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Cagliari or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Cagliari or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Toulon?

Cagliari
Toulon

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

Toulon is well-known for its shopping. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

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 Toulon Better for Families?

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cagliari is 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!

Toulon is a family-friendly city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Cagliari or Toulon Better for Couples?

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Cagliari or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari and Toulon are both nice 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 Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.


Is Cagliari or Toulon Better for Students?

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari is very good for students. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Cagliari
Toulon

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cagliari and Toulon.

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

You'll find some public transit in Toulon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Cagliari or Toulon a more walkable city?

Cagliari
Toulon

Cagliari and Toulon are very good when it comes to walkability.

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.

Toulon is a very walkable destination. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.


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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Toulon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cagliari or Toulon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cagliari than Toulon 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 Toulon.

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

One day in Cagliari or Toulon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cagliari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The port city of Toulon 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 Toulon?

Cagliari is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Cagliari or Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cagliari. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Cagliari. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Toulon 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 port 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulon 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 Toulon is €119. 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 Toulon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cagliari 66
    Toulon 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cagliari 132
    Toulon 158
Compare Hotels in Cagliari and Toulon

Looking for a hotel in Cagliari or Toulon? 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 Toulon


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 Toulon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cagliari 31
    Toulon 7.14

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Toulon:

  • Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille Provence Airport: $117
  • Private Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille city Hotels: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Cagliari or Toulon?

Prices for flights to both Toulon 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
    Toulon 30

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 Toulon

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

  • Culinary Heritage Guided Walking Food Tour: $102
  • Toulon Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cagliari 17
    Toulon 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 Toulon

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

  • Guided Tour in Port & Old City: $55
  • Ile de Porquerolles: VIP tour et déjeuner Fondation Carmignac: $217
  • Private Heritage Walking Tour in Toulon: $178
  • Provence Abbey of Thoronet Entrance Ticket: $9.81
  • Toulon Private Tour: $278
  • Little Train Ticket: $9.62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cagliari 7.57
    Toulon 14

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 Toulon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toulon:

  • Cellar Visit & Bandol Wine Tasting (in French): $13
  • Horse riding in the vineyards of Ramatuelle + wine tasting: $97


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


Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Toulon. The summer months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

In July, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Toulon. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 24°C (75°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In the summer, Cagliari often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in July than Toulon. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cagliari 24°C (75°F) 
    Toulon 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Cagliari is a little warmer than Toulon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Toulon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during autumn. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Toulon. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cagliari 18°C (65°F) 
    Toulon 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon and Cagliari during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Toulon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cagliari is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cagliari in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Toulon averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Cagliari often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in January than Toulon. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cagliari 10°C (50°F) 
    Toulon 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Toulon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Toulon. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Toulon. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 14°C (57°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In Cagliari, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cagliari usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during spring. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Toulon. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cagliari 14°C (57°F) 
    Toulon 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Toulon and Cagliari

Cagliari Toulon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 10°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Mar 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 24°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 26 mm (1 in) 20°C (69°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 18°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)