A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Sounion vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Florence?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Florence? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a iconic, impressive, and spectacular destination. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, museums, and food.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cape Sounion and Florence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Florence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Florence. Although Cape Sounion and Florence are both popular with visitors, Florence has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Florence is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cape Sounion is known for its beaches. Florence is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Cape Sounion is popular for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

How is Cape Sounion different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Cape Sounion. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Florence?

Cape Sounion
Florence

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Florence and Cape Sounion.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Sounion has many famous sights for visitors. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.


Is the Food Better in Cape Sounion or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Florence is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Florence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Florence is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Cape Sounion or Florence Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Cape Sounion is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

Cape Sounion has a beach worth visiting. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Florence is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Florence is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Florence has a world-famous historical area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Florence?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Florence is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Florence Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Florence.

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Florence. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.


Is Cape Sounion or Florence Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Florence is very popular for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Cape Sounion or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Florence is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cape Sounion or Florence Better for Students?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Florence is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Sounion is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Cape Sounion is not popular with students.


Is Cape Sounion or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cape Sounion and Florence.

Cape Sounion has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

You'll find some public transit in Florence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Cape Sounion or Florence a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Florence

Florence is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Florence. Most people explore the city on foot.

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Sounion Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Florence?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Cape Sounion 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 Florence.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Florence 2-7

One day in Cape Sounion or Florence?

The destination of Cape Sounion offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Florence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Cape Sounion or Florence?

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

Florence is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Florence?

Cape Sounion is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

In Florence, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this iconic destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Cape Sounion or Florence?

Cape Sounion is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers something for everyone.

Florence is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Florence or Cape Sounion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, while the average daily cost in Florence is €154. 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 Cape Sounion and Florence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Florence 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Florence 174
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Florence? 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 Cape Sounion


Hotels in Florence


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: Florence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Florence 22

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:


  • Taxi Ride Within City
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    25
  • In City Parking (Full Day)
    30
  • Bus Pass (Full Day)
    5.00
  • Bus From Airport
    5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

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

  • Transfer from Florence to Arezzo with a stop at The Mall Outlet: $153
  • Transfer Florence - Bologna with stop at the Barberino Outlet: $142
  • Transfer Between Florence and Rome with Sightseeing Stop: $1,176
  • Private transfer: $256
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Florence (hotel OR airport pick-up): $85
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Florence: $114
  • Private Transfer: Florence to Florence Firenze-Peretola Airport (FLR): $153
  • Private Transfer: Florence City Center to Peretola Airport (FLR): $63
  • Private Transfer from Ulignano to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $251
  • Private Transfer from Scandicci to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $110
  • Private Transfer from San Casciano in Val di Pesa to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $292
  • Private Transfer from SMN Train Station to Florence: $51

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence and Cape Sounion 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
    Cape Sounion 41
    Florence 36

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:


  • Panini Sandwich
    6.50
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $23
  • Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Virtual Live Cooking Class What Do You Have in Your Pantry: $35
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Bruschetta & Tiramisù: $35
  • Italian Fresh Pasta Private Virtual Cooking Class: $40
  • Street Food Tour with Local Expert Guide: $41
  • Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours : $41
  • Florence Food Tour: Home-Made Pasta, Truffle, Cantucci, Olive Oil, Gelato: $41
  • Food Tour in Santo Spirito: $47
  • Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $47
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $61
  • Pasta Cooking Experience in Florence: $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Florence 30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Admission to Uffizi
    11
  • Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi
    4.00
  • Firenze Card (for Two)
    100
  • Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two)
    20
  • Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee
    6.00
  • Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee
    7.00

Tours and Activities in Florence

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

  • Best of Florence walking tour & Accademia Gallery- monolingual small group tour: $92
  • Florence FoodTour with Local Guide: $191
  • Florence-Private bike tour: $98
  • From Sunset Panoramic e-Bike or Classic Bike tour : $38
  • Semi-Private Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour: $71
  • Tour Private of Florence in electric car : $41
  • VIP Uffizi Gallery Tour: $75
  • "Good Morning Chianti Classico" - Tour in 2 wineries with lunch: $196
  • 1-Hour Experience with Brunello. Visit to the Vineyard and Cellar: $35
  • 1-Hour Golf Cart Private Tour through the Center of Florence: $49
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Tour: Uffizi Galleries for Families: $38
  • 2-Hour Guided Tour to Uffizi Gallery and its Symbols: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Florence 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:


  • Glass of Chianti
    4.20
  • Bottle of Wine
    7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
  • Great wine tasting at Tenuta Moriano: $25
  • Biodynamic Wine Tasting with Producer in Vinci: $28
  • 3 Types Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $29
  • From Florence to Chianti Rufina: Wine Tasting Experience: $32
  • Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $33
  • Discover Artimino wine tasting, a few steps from Florence: $33
  • Three Types of Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $37
  • Wine Tasting and Paring Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
  • Chianti Wine Tour: Tuscan Reds : $43
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Sounion and Florence, we can see that Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 370 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion and Florence, 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 Cape Sounion or Florence?

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 Cape Sounion or Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Florence. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cape Sounion is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 27°C (81°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Florence during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Florence. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Florence 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Florence. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Florence. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Florence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Florence in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Sounion in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Florence during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Florence. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Florence 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Cape Sounion during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In April, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 16°C (60°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Florence. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Florence 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Florence and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Florence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (57°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (75°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)