A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cefalu vs. Arles for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cefalu or Arles?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cefalu and Arles. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a historic, touristy, and charming fishing village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Arles

Arles is a charming, compact, and quaint town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cefalu and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cefalu. Although Cefalu and Arles are both popular with visitors, Cefalu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cefalu is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Arles is known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Cefalu is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. It is also home to the beaches. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Cefalu different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cefalu or Arles?

Arles is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Arles are world-renowned. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

Is the Food Better in Cefalu or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Cefalu and Arles both to be high quality destinations.

Cefalu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Cefalu or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Arles is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Cefalu or Arles Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is well known for its resorts. However, Arles is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cefalu. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Arles is not a resort destination.

Is Cefalu or Arles Better for Beaches?

Cefalu is well known for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

Cefalu is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Cefalu or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Arles is revered around the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Is Cefalu or Arles Better for Hiking?

Cefalu is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cefalu. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Arles?

Arles is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Cefalu or Arles Better for Families?

Cefalu is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Cefalu or Arles Better for Couples?

Cefalu is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Cefalu has plenty to offer. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

Arles is a great fishing village if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Cefalu or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arles is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Arles has some public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Cefalu or Arles a more walkable city?

Cefalu and Arles are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Cefalu is a very walkable fishing village. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

Arles is a very walkable destination. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Cefalu Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cefalu or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cefalu than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cefalu, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arles than Cefalu 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 Arles.

One day in Cefalu or Arles?

Even though Cefalu is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cefalu or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Arles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, 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.

Five days in Cefalu or Arles?

Cefalu is a fun place to experience. Cefalu is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

A week in Cefalu or Arles?

Cefalu is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Arles. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu and Arles, 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 Cefalu or Arles?

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 Cefalu or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Cefalu during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Arles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cefalu in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Arles averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cefalu. In the summer, Cefalu often gets less sunshine than Arles. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Arles. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Arles. Many visitors come to Cefalu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cefalu is generally a little warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 19°C (67°F), and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during autumn. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Arles receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Arles. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cefalu or Arles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Arles. Most visitors come to Cefalu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Arles because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cefalu is much warmer than Arles in the winter. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in January than Arles. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

In the spring, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Arles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cefalu in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Arles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during spring. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Arles. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Arles and Cefalu