A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Urbino for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Catania or Urbino?

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

Catania

Catania is a fun, historic, and lively port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Urbino

Urbino is a undiscovered, authentic, and laid back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Catania and Urbino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Mount Etna
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Catania or Urbino?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Urbino 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 Urbino is known for its impressive beauty. Catania is more touristy than Urbino and is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna. Urbino is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Catania different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Catania
Urbino

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

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 Urbino. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


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

Catania
Urbino

Catania is an amazing port city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Urbino makes for a great culinary experience. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

Is Catania or Urbino Better for Nightlife?

Catania
Urbino

Catania is great for its evening party scene. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Many people head to Catania for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Catania or Urbino Better for Beaches?

Catania
Urbino

Catania is a port city with good options for the beach. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.


Is Catania or Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Catania
Urbino

Catania and Urbino 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.

Urbino has an old town worth visiting. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Is Catania or Urbino Better for Hiking?

Catania
Urbino

Catania is great for hiking. However, Urbino is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Catania for the hiking trails. 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.

Urbino is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Urbino?

Catania
Urbino

Both Catania and Urbino are good shopping destinations.

Catania offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Urbino has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.


Is Catania or Urbino Better for Families?

Catania
Urbino

Catania is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Is Catania or Urbino Better for Couples?

Catania
Urbino

Urbino is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

Urbino is a very popular place to visit for couples. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

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 Urbino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania
Urbino

Catania is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.


Is Catania or Urbino Better for Students?

Catania
Urbino

Catania and Urbino are both superb destinations for students and younger travelers.

Catania is very popular with students. 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.

Urbino is a great port city to visit as a student. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

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

Catania
Urbino

Catania is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

Is Catania or Urbino a more walkable city?

Catania
Urbino

Catania is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Urbino or Catania?

How long in Catania or Urbino?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Catania or Urbino 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 Urbino. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Catania than Urbino. 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 Urbino. 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 Urbino 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.


  • How many days in Catania or Urbino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Catania 1-2 
    Urbino 1-2

One day in Catania or Urbino?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Urbino, you'll find nightlife and food. This town 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 Urbino?

Catania is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Urbino, 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 Urbino has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Urbino?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Catania. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Urbino 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 Urbino?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Catania. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Urbino. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Urbino. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Urbino or Catania?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Catania is €120, while the average daily cost in Urbino is €118. 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 Catania and Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Catania 65
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Catania 130
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Catania and Urbino

Looking for a hotel in Catania or Urbino? 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 Catania


Hotels in Urbino


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: Catania Hotel Prices and Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Catania 20
    Urbino 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Catania

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Catania:

  • From 1-Way Private Airport Transfer to Palermo: $775
  • Catania Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Palermo by Car: $722
  • TAXI Transfer from CATANIA to Capo d'Orlando (or vice versa): $421
  • From Catania Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Agrigento: $373
  • Private TAXI transfer from Catania to Agrigento or viceversa: $332
  • Catania Airport to/from Verdura Resort Transfer: $321
  • From Private transfer to Agrigento Temples: $320
  • Private Transfer from Catania to PORTOROSA marina yachting: $310
  • Private Transfer From Catania to Palermo or vice versa: $256
  • PRIVATE TRANSFER from CATANIA to PALERMO (or VICEVERSA): $233
  • Private TAXI transfer from CATANIA to MESSINA or viceversa: $230
  • Private TAXI Transfer from Catania to Comiso (or viceversa): $214

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Catania or Urbino?

Prices for flights to both Urbino and Catania 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
    Catania 41
    Urbino 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Catania

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Catania.

  • Catania Street Food Tour: Fish Market & City Centre: $38
  • Catania Street Food Tour: $52
  • Cooking class & visit to the Catania Historical market: $59
  • Patisserie Food tour: $60
  • Guided Street Food Tour with Tastings: $63
  • Food tour of Catania by night: $64
  • Catania Street Food Tour: $67
  • Guided Street Food Tour with Tastings: $73
  • Aci Trezza boat tour with dinner on board: $85
  • Cooking Class Tiramisù: $95
  • Cooking Class Arancini in Catania: $96
  • Cooking class Pizza: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Catania 19
    Urbino 15

Tours and Activities in Catania

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Catania are as follows:

  • From Catania, Syracuse and Taormina: fly fishing experience: $240
  • Taormina and Castelmola private tour with traditional lunch: $272
  • 2 hours guided tour of Catania: $40
  • 3-Hour Catania Segway PT Authorized Tour: $118
  • Agrigento and Piazza Armerina day tour: $131
  • BOAT TOUR WITH APERITIF ON BOARD IN THE CYCLOPS ISLANDS: $64
  • Baroque shades of Sicily (Noto, Modica and Ragusa day tour): $120
  • Benedictine Monastery of Guided tour in English: $11
  • Boat tour to the Ulysses caves with swimming guide: $84
  • Boat trip and tour Savoca and Taormina: $142
  • Catania : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $49
  • Catania Bike Tour with Tasting food: $182

Tours and Activities in Urbino

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

  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour with certified guide: $139
  • Private Walking Tour with Ducal Palace Ticket: $150
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Catania 18
    Urbino 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Catania

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

  • Volcanic Wine Tasting in a Metropolitan Market: $48
  • Wine Tasting in the South Slope of Etna: $50
  • Etna: Urban Winery, Vineyards Walk & Wine Tasting at Sunset: $62
  • Wine tour in Catania: $102
  • Mt Etna and Wine tasting tour from Catania: $116
  • Full-Day Etna and Wine Tour from Catania: $126
  • From Mt.Etna picnic and wine tasting: $128
  • Guided Tour of Etna with Wine Tasting & Appetizers: $139
  • Etna trekking and wine tasting: $147
  • Tour Etna & Wine Tasting: $158
  • Etna Tour and Lunch in a Winery with Wine Tasting: $265
  • From Catania/Taormina: Mount Etna Private Wine Tasting Tour: $433


When comparing the travel costs between Catania and Urbino, we can see that Catania 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 Catania Expensive? and Is Urbino Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Catania or Urbino?

Catania has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Urbino. When comparing the sizes of Catania and Urbino, 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 Urbino?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Catania or Urbino in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Catania as well as Urbino. Many travelers come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Urbino in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Catania is a little warmer than Urbino. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Urbino averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Catania usually gets less rain in July than Urbino. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Catania 26°C (79°F) 
    Urbino 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Catania or Urbino in the Autumn?

Both Urbino and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Catania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Urbino for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Catania is generally a little warmer than Urbino. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Urbino fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite rainy in Catania. In October, Catania usually receives more rain than Urbino. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Catania 19°C (67°F) 
    Urbino 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Catania or Urbino in the Winter?

Both Urbino and Catania during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Catania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Urbino because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Urbino can be very cold. Catania is much warmer than Urbino in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Urbino fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Catania usually gets more rain in January than Urbino. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Catania 10°C (51°F) 
    Urbino 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Catania or Urbino in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Urbino. 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 Urbino this time of year.

In the spring, Catania is a little warmer than Urbino. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Urbino averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In April, Catania usually receives less rain than Urbino. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Catania 15°C (58°F) 
    Urbino 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Urbino and Catania

Catania Urbino
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 128 mm (5 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)


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