A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Catania vs. Barcelona for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Catania or Barcelona?

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 Catania and Barcelona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a historic, lively, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a colorful, laid-back, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Catania and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Catania. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Catania attracts visitors for its food and hiking. Barcelona is more touristy than Catania and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Catania is famous for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna.

How is Catania different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Catania or Barcelona?

Barcelona is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Barcelona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Is the Food Better in Catania or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Catania is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Catania have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

Barcelona is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Catania has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is very popular for its live music scene. However, Catania is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Catania is not a live music destination.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Catania and Barcelona are nice choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Catania to enjoy the beach. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Barcelona has a beach worth visiting. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is notable for its old town. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Hiking?

Catania is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Catania is a popular spot for hiking. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Barcelona?

Barcelona is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Families?

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

Catania is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

Barcelona is a family-friendly port city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Both Catania and Barcelona are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Catania makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Barcelona is a good port city for couples to visit. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is very popular for backpackers. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is very popular for students. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Catania is a great port city to visit as a student. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Is Catania or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Catania and Barcelona offer superb public transit options.

The public transit in Catania can get you around easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

Barcelona offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Catania or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Catania is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Catania is very walkable. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable port city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Catania?

How long in Catania or Barcelona?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Catania 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 Barcelona.

One day in Catania or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Catania. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Catania has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Catania or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Catania or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic port city of Catania. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Catania or Barcelona?

Catania is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Catania and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Catania much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Catania would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Catania 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Catania.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Catania Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Catania or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Catania. When comparing the sizes of Catania and Barcelona, 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 Catania or Barcelona?

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 Catania or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Catania is generally a little warmer than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 26°C (79°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Catania during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Catania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Catania is a little warmer than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually gets more rain in October than Barcelona. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Barcelona. Most visitors come to Catania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Catania is a little warmer than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Catania in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during winter. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Catania usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Catania as well as Barcelona. The spring months attract visitors to Catania because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In April, Catania is generally a little warmer than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 15°C (58°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In the spring, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in April than Barcelona. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Catania