A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Catania vs. Saint-Tropez for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Catania or Saint-Tropez?

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 Saint-Tropez can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a youthful, fun, and historic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a extravagant, luxurious, and glamourous resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Catania and Saint-Tropez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Saint-Tropez?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Catania than Saint-Tropez, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Catania is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Saint-Tropez is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Catania is well known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. Also, Catania is famous for Mount Etna. Saint-Tropez is well known for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy.

How is Catania different from Saint-Tropez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez?

Catania is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Catania or Saint-Tropez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Catania is an amazing port city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Catania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez 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.

Saint-Tropez is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its resorts. However, Catania is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Saint-Tropez is a perfect choice. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

Catania is not a resort destination.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Saint-Tropez is not to be missed. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is notable for the beache. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Saint-Tropez is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez Better for its Old Town?

Catania is a popular place for its old town. However, Saint-Tropez does not have a historic old town.

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.

Saint-Tropez does not have a historic old town.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez Better for Hiking?

Catania is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Saint-Tropez 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.

Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Saint-Tropez?

Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez make it a world-class shopping destination. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in 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 Saint-Tropez Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint-Tropez is one of the most popular family destinations. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Catania. 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.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez Better for Couples?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Saint-Tropez has plenty to offer. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Catania is a great port city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Saint-Tropez is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez Better for Students?

Catania is a great destination for students. However, Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

Catania is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

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

Catania is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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.

While Saint-Tropez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

Is Catania or Saint-Tropez a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Saint-Tropez on foot. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint-Tropez or Catania?

How long in Catania or Saint-Tropez?

It's fun to spend time in either Catania or Saint-Tropez. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint-Tropez due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Catania, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint-Tropez.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Catania than Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez?

In Catania, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic port city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

In Saint-Tropez, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town 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 Saint-Tropez?

Catania is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Saint-Tropez, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint-Tropez has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Saint-Tropez?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Saint-Tropez is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Saint-Tropez?

Catania is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Tropez. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Saint-Tropez. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in France, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Catania and Saint-Tropez, we can see that Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Catania or Saint-Tropez?

Catania has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Catania and Saint-Tropez, 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 Saint-Tropez?

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 Saint-Tropez in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Saint-Tropez. Most visitors come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Saint-Tropez because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Catania is a little warmer than Saint-Tropez in the summer. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Tropez this time of the year. In Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Tropez during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Tropez receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Saint-Tropez. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Saint-Tropez in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Catania as well as Saint-Tropez. The autumn months attract visitors to Catania because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint-Tropez this time of year.

In the autumn, Catania is a little warmer than Saint-Tropez. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Catania in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Saint-Tropez averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint-Tropez. In the autumn, Catania often gets less sunshine than Saint-Tropez. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Tropez receives 205 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Saint-Tropez. Catania receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania usually gets more rain in October than Saint-Tropez. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Saint-Tropez in the Winter?

Both Saint-Tropez and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Tropez for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Catania is generally a little warmer than Saint-Tropez. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 10°C (51°F), and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint-Tropez during winter. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Tropez receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Catania usually receives less rain than Saint-Tropez. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Saint-Tropez in the Spring?

Both Saint-Tropez and Catania during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Catania for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Tropez in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Catania is around the same temperature as Saint-Tropez in the spring. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Saint-Tropez, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Catania. In the spring, Catania often gets less sunshine than Saint-Tropez. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Tropez receives 245 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Tropez. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Saint-Tropez and Catania