A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Urbino for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Cagliari or Urbino?

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 Urbino 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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Urbino

Urbino is a authentic, laid back, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cagliari and Urbino: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cagliari or Urbino?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cagliari. Although Cagliari and Urbino are both popular with visitors, Cagliari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cagliari is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Urbino is known for its impressive beauty. Cagliari is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also home to Castello. Urbino is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Cagliari different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cagliari
Urbino

Cagliari is great for its historical sights. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Urbino is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


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

Cagliari
Urbino

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cagliari and Urbino 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 Urbino is an experience not to be missed. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

Is Cagliari or Urbino Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari
Urbino

Cagliari is great for its evening party scene. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Cagliari or Urbino Better for Beaches?

Cagliari
Urbino

Cagliari is great for the beach. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.


Is Cagliari or Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari
Urbino

Cagliari is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its 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.

Many visitors go to Urbino to see the historical old town. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Urbino?

Cagliari
Urbino

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

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 Urbino to go shopping. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

Is Cagliari or Urbino Better for Families?

Cagliari
Urbino

Cagliari is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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!

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.


Is Cagliari or Urbino Better for Couples?

Cagliari
Urbino

Both Cagliari and Urbino 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 Urbino frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

Is Cagliari or Urbino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari
Urbino

Cagliari is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination for backpackers.

Cagliari is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

Is Cagliari or Urbino Better for Students?

Cagliari
Urbino

Urbino is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Urbino is very popular with students. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

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

Cagliari
Urbino

Cagliari is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Cagliari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

Is Cagliari or Urbino a more walkable city?

Cagliari
Urbino

Cagliari is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Urbino or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Urbino?

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Urbino?

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 beautiful town of Urbino 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 Urbino?

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.

Urbino 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 Urbino, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cagliari or Urbino?

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.

Urbino 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 Urbino?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated 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.

Urbino 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, Urbino 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 Urbino is €118. 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 Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cagliari 66
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cagliari 132
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Cagliari and Urbino

Looking for a hotel in Cagliari or Urbino? 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 Urbino


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 Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cagliari 31
    Urbino 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cagliari

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Cagliari or Urbino?

Prices for flights to both Urbino 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
    Urbino 39

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
    Urbino 15

Tours and Activities in Cagliari

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

  • 2 Hours Guided Tour of San Pancras and Castello: $43
  • 3 Hours Guided Tour of the Historical Cagliari: $64
  • Archaeological tour of Nora: $91
  • Barumini Unesco Site and Giara of Gesturi Tour from Cagliari: $98
  • Beach Tour Porto Pino & Piscinnì from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour Marina Rei & Sant'Elmo from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour Porto Giunco & Cala Sinzias from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour to Chia & Tuerredda from Cagliari: $91
  • Boat Tour at Devil's Saddle: 4 Swim Stops, Snorkeling & Prosecco: $60
  • Boat Tour in the Gulf of Cagliari with aperitif on board: $84
  • Cagliari : Highlights & Hidden gems Private Walking Tour: $70
  • Cagliari : Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Guide: $51

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • From Montefeltro Tour with Truffle Lunch: $396
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • San Marino: Food Tasting Tour: $195

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cagliari 7.57
    Urbino 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


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


Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Urbino?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Urbino. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Urbino, 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 Urbino?

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 Urbino in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Urbino. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Urbino in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cagliari is around the same temperature as Urbino. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cagliari in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Urbino averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Urbino. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cagliari 24°C (75°F) 
    Urbino 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Urbino in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Urbino. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Urbino for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cagliari is generally a little warmer than Urbino. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 18°C (65°F), and Urbino fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Cagliari usually gets less rain in October than Urbino. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cagliari 18°C (65°F) 
    Urbino 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Urbino in the Winter?

Both Urbino and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Urbino because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Urbino can be very cold. Cagliari is much warmer than Urbino in the winter. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Urbino fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Cagliari usually receives more rain than Urbino. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cagliari 10°C (50°F) 
    Urbino 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Urbino in the Spring?

Both Urbino and Cagliari during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Urbino this time of year.

In the spring, Cagliari is a little warmer than Urbino. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cagliari in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Urbino averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Cagliari usually gets less rain in April than Urbino. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cagliari 14°C (57°F) 
    Urbino 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Urbino and Cagliari

Cagliari Urbino
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 10°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 24°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 18°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)