A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cefalu vs. Cagliari for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cefalu or Cagliari?

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 Cagliari. 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 coastal, historic, and touristy fishing village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a relaxed, historic, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Cefalu and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Cefalu or Cagliari?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cagliari than Cefalu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cagliari is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cefalu is more popular for its resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cefalu is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Cagliari is well known for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. Also, Cagliari is famous for Castello.

How is Cefalu different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cagliari is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cagliari. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

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 Cagliari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Foodies will find both Cefalu and Cagliari 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 Cagliari is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

Is Cefalu or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cagliari is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Cagliari has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

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 Cagliari Better for Resorts?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cefalu is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.


Is Cefalu or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cefalu and Cagliari both offer high quality beaches.

Many people visit Cefalu for it's beautiful 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.

Cagliari is considered a top beach destination. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Is Cefalu or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Cefalu and Cagliari.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cagliari. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Is Cefalu or Cagliari Better for Hiking?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cefalu is very good for its hiking trails. However, Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Cagliari?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cagliari 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 Cagliari. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

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 Cagliari Better for Families?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cagliari is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cagliari is very family-friendly. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

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.

Is Cefalu or Cagliari Better for Couples?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cefalu is an amazing fishing village to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Cagliari frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.


Is Cefalu or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cagliari is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

Is Cefalu or Cagliari Better for Students?

Cefalu
Cagliari

Cagliari is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cefalu is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Cagliari. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Cefalu
Cagliari

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

Cagliari has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

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 Cagliari a more walkable city?

Cefalu
Cagliari

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

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

Cagliari is a very walkable destination. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

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

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Cagliari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cefalu and Cagliari. In our opinion, Cagliari has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cagliari than Cefalu. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cefalu than Cagliari. 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 Cagliari 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 Cagliari.


  • How many days in Cefalu or Cagliari? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cefalu 1-3 
    Cagliari 1-3

One day in Cefalu or Cagliari?

Cefalu is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cagliari. 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 Cagliari?

Cefalu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this fishing village makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cefalu, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cagliari is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Cagliari?

Cefalu is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. 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 Cagliari. 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 Cagliari?

Cefalu is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This fishing village offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated destination of Cagliari. This city 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Cagliari or Cefalu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cefalu is €119, while the average daily cost in Cagliari is €120. 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 Cefalu and Cagliari in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cefalu 87
    Cagliari 66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cefalu 174
    Cagliari 132
Compare Hotels in Cefalu and Cagliari

Looking for a hotel in Cefalu or Cagliari? 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 Cefalu


Hotels in Cagliari


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: Cefalu Hotel Prices and Cagliari Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cefalu 4.29
    Cagliari 31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

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

  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $175
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $103
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cagliari

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

  • Transfer / taxi Cagliari Airport - Cagliari city: $60
  • Private Transfer from Cagliari hotels to Cagliari Cruise Port: $26
  • Private Transfer Cagliari airport City - Orosei city Marina: $513
  • Cagliari Elmas Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Cagliari: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Cefalu or Cagliari?

Prices for flights to both Cagliari and Cefalu 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
    Cefalu 28
    Cagliari 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cagliari

For Cagliari, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sardinia Cooking Class: Fresh Handmade Pasta: $75
  • Cooking Class and Wine Tasting: $80
  • Homemade fresh pasta cooking: $82
  • Sardinia Traditional Food Tour: $87
  • Sardinian Cooking Class with Meal and Drinks: $96
  • Traditional Sardinian Lunch and Cooking Class In Cagliari: $116
  • Romantic sunset dinner experience with private chef: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cefalu 5.71
    Cagliari 17

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $273
  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $225

Tours and Activities in Cagliari

For Cagliari, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Guided Tour of San Pancras and Castello: $43
  • 3 Hours Guided Tour of the Historical Cagliari: $64
  • Archaeological tour of Nora: $91
  • Barumini Unesco Site and Giara of Gesturi Tour from Cagliari: $98
  • Beach Tour Porto Pino & Piscinnì from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour Marina Rei & Sant'Elmo from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour Porto Giunco & Cala Sinzias from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour to Chia & Tuerredda from Cagliari: $91
  • Boat Tour at Devil's Saddle: 4 Swim Stops, Snorkeling & Prosecco: $60
  • Boat Tour in the Gulf of Cagliari with aperitif on board: $84
  • Cagliari : Highlights & Hidden gems Private Walking Tour: $70
  • Cagliari : Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Guide: $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cefalu 11
    Cagliari 7.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Cefalu

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

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49

Sample the Local Flavors in Cagliari

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

  • Guided Artisanal Food and Wine Tasting Experience: $48
  • WINE TOUR with sommelier in a winery near Cagliari: $66
  • Small-Group Food and Wine Tour from Cagliari: $98
  • Wine Tour Sardinia: $107
  • Wine tour aroud vineyards of Cagliari : $109
  • Wine Tasting & Winery Tour: $266
  • Full-Day Private Wine Tasting with Lunch: $641


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


Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Cagliari?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu and Cagliari, 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 Cagliari?

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 Cefalu or Cagliari in the Summer?

Both Cagliari and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cagliari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cefalu is around the same temperature as Cagliari in the summer. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Cagliari fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari during summer. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Cagliari. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F) 
    Cagliari 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Cagliari in the Autumn?

Both Cagliari and Cefalu during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Cagliari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cefalu in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Cagliari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets more rain in October than Cagliari. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cefalu 19°C (67°F) 
    Cagliari 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Cagliari in the Winter?

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

In January, Cefalu is generally around the same temperature as Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 10°C (51°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during winter. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cefalu usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cefalu 10°C (51°F) 
    Cagliari 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Cagliari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Cagliari. The spring months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year.

Cefalu is around the same temperature as Cagliari in the spring. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Cagliari fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the spring, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cagliari. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F) 
    Cagliari 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Cefalu

Cefalu Cagliari
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 4 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 24°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)