A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Caltagirone for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Catania or Caltagirone?

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

Catania

Catania is a youthful, fun, and historic port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Caltagirone

Caltagirone is a quaint, friendly, and charming city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Catania and Caltagirone: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Caltagirone?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Caltagirone are both popular with visitors, Catania has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Catania is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Caltagirone is known for its shopping and impressive beauty. Catania is more touristy than Caltagirone and is known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna. Caltagirone is popular for its pottery and ceramic industry as well as the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase.

How is Catania different from Caltagirone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Catania and Caltagirone.

Catania offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Caltagirone. Many visitors come to see the famed Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, which is a 142 step staircase that connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The staircase highlights the city's ceramic and pottery industry, as every step is decorated with tiles.

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

Catania is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Caltagirone. There are some great local restaurants that serve seafood and other local specialties.

Is Catania or Caltagirone Better for Nightlife?

Catania is well known for its evening party scene. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for nightlife.

Catania is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Caltagirone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many people visit as a day trip and the town isn't known for its nightlife scene.

Is Catania or Caltagirone Better for Beaches?

Catania is a port city with good options for the beach. However, Caltagirone is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Catania. 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.

Caltagirone is not a beach destination.

Is Catania or Caltagirone Better for its Old Town?

Catania and Caltagirone are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

Many people head to Catania to see the old town. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Caltagirone has an old town worth visiting. It is known for its pottery and ceramics, which have been incorporated into many of the architectural elements around town.

Is Catania or Caltagirone Better for Hiking?

Catania is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Caltagirone is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Catania. 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.

Caltagirone is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Caltagirone?

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

Caltagirone is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Pottery and ceramic shopping is a highlight of a visit to town.

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 Caltagirone Better for Families?

Catania is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Catania is known to be 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.

For families, Caltagirone is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy running up and down the famous Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase. The town also hosts some fun festivals throughout the year, and if you're traveling with kids, these would be the times to visit.

Is Catania or Caltagirone Better for Couples?

Both Catania and Caltagirone are good 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.

Caltagirone is a good port city for couples to visit. Pottery shopping and exploring the town make this a nice option for a day trip or overnight visit.

Is Catania or Caltagirone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania is well known for backpackers. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Catania is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Caltagirone is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people pass in and out of the town on a day trip or stopover, so you won't find many hostels.

Is Catania or Caltagirone Better for Students?

Catania is well known for students. However, Caltagirone is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Catania. 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.

Caltagirone is not popular with students.

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

Catania is well known for its public transit. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Catania. 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.

While Caltagirone offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel in and out of town.

Is Catania or Caltagirone a more walkable city?

Catania is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Caltagirone is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are steep, but many people choose to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Caltagirone or Catania?

How long in Catania or Caltagirone?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Catania or Caltagirone to fill your time. In our opinion, Catania has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Catania than Caltagirone. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Catania or Caltagirone?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively port city of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Caltagirone, you'll find museums and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Catania or Caltagirone?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Catania. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This port city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Caltagirone, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Caltagirone has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Caltagirone?

The youthful port city of Catania offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Caltagirone is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Catania or Caltagirone?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Catania. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Caltagirone. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Caltagirone. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Catania or Caltagirone?

Catania has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Caltagirone. When comparing the sizes of Catania and Caltagirone, 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 Caltagirone?

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 Caltagirone in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Caltagirone. Many travelers come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Caltagirone in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Catania is around the same temperature as Caltagirone. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Caltagirone averages at about 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Caltagirone this time of the year. In Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Caltagirone during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Caltagirone receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives more rain than Caltagirone. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Caltagirone in the Autumn?

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

In October, Catania is generally around the same temperature as Caltagirone. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Caltagirone fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

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

Catania receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania usually gets more rain in October than Caltagirone. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Caltagirone in the Winter?

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

Catania is around the same temperature as Caltagirone in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Caltagirone fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

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

In January, Catania usually receives more rain than Caltagirone. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Caltagirone in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Catania is around the same temperature as Caltagirone. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Caltagirone averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In Caltagirone, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Catania. In the spring, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Caltagirone. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caltagirone receives 204 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Caltagirone. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Caltagirone and Catania