A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cefalu vs. Catania for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Cefalu or Catania?

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 Catania. 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 charming, coastal, and historic fishing village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty in Cefalu as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Cefalu travel costs.

Catania

Catania is a lively, youthful, and fun port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Catania travel costs.

Cefalu and Catania: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Catania?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Catania than Cefalu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Catania is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Cefalu is more popular for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cefalu is well known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Catania is well known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. Also, Catania is famous for Mount Etna.

How is Cefalu different from Catania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Catania is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its 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.

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 Catania? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Catania is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Catania, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dining out in Cefalu is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Cefalu or Catania Better for Nightlife?

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

Catania has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 Catania Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is notable for its resorts. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a resort destination.

Is Cefalu or Catania Better for Beaches?

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

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.

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 Cefalu or Catania Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu is notable for its old town. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Cefalu or Catania Better for Hiking?

Catania is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Catania?

Catania 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 Catania. 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.

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 Catania More Beautiful?

Cefalu is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Catania is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Cefalu as well. The charming town and the striking blue waters make this a beautiful destination for travelers.

Catania is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cefalu or Catania Better for Families?

Catania 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, Catania is very family-friendly. 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.

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 Catania Better for Couples?

Cefalu 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, 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.

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

Is Cefalu or Catania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many 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.

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 Catania Better for Students?

Catania is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cefalu is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Catania is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

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 Catania a more walkable city?

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

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

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 Cefalu Worth Visiting? and Is Catania Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Catania or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Catania?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cefalu or Catania to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cefalu than Catania 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 Catania.

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

One day in Cefalu or Catania?

Cefalu is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This fishing village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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.

A weekend in Cefalu or Catania?

Cefalu might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cefalu has to offer.

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.

Five days in Cefalu or Catania?

Cefalu 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.

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.

A week in Cefalu or Catania?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. Since Cefalu is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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.

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.

When comparing the travel costs between Cefalu and Catania, 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 Cefalu Expensive? and Is Catania Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Catania?

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

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 Catania in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Catania. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Catania in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the summer, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Catania. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 325 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Catania. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Catania receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Catania in the Autumn?

Both Catania and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

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

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Catania. In October, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Catania. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Catania receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cefalu or Catania in the Winter?

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

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

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

Cefalu usually gets less rain in January than Catania. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Catania receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Catania in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Catania. The spring months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Catania this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Catania during spring. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Catania. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Catania receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Catania and Cefalu