A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cagliari vs. Venice for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cagliari or Venice?

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 Venice 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Venice

Venice is a cultural, magical, and historic city. 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 shopping, museums, and food.

Cagliari and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Venice?

Both Venice and Cagliari have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Venice is known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Venice is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. Cagliari is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches.

How is Cagliari different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice 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 Venice are world-renowned. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cagliari is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cagliari has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Cagliari or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice 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 Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Cagliari or Venice Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Cagliari or Venice Better for its Old Town?

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

Venice offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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 the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Venice?

Venice 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, Venice draws large crowds to its stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Cagliari or Venice.

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!

Venice is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

Is Cagliari or Venice Better for Couples?

Venice is an amazing city 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, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice Better for Students?

Venice 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 Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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

Venice 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 Venice is top-notch. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Venice?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Venice?

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 city of Venice offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Venice?

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.

Venice 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cagliari or Venice?

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.

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Venice?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari and Venice, 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 Venice?

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 Venice in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Venice. The summer months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Venice this time of the year. In Cagliari, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Venice during summer. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Venice. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cagliari or Venice in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Venice. 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 Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cagliari is generally a little warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 18°C (65°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Venice. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in October than Venice. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Venice in the Winter?

Both Venice and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Venice in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Venice during winter. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Venice. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cagliari or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice and Cagliari during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Venice for the natural beauty during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the spring, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Venice. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in April than Venice. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Venice and Cagliari