A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cefalu vs. Genoa for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Cefalu or Genoa?

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 Genoa. 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 touristy, charming, and coastal fishing village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Genoa

Genoa is a vibrant, colorful, and energetic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cefalu and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Genoa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cefalu. Although Cefalu and Genoa are both popular with visitors, Cefalu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cefalu is more popular for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Genoa is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Cefalu is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. It is also home to the beaches. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Cefalu different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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 Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Cefalu and Genoa both to be great 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 Genoa is an experience not to be missed. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Cefalu or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

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 Genoa Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is great for its luxury resorts. However, Genoa is not a resort destination.

Cefalu is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Genoa is not a resort destination.

Is Cefalu or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Cefalu is great for the beach. However, Genoa is not a good destination for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cefalu. 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.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Is Cefalu or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

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

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is Cefalu or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Cefalu is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Cefalu has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Genoa?

Genoa 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 Genoa. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

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 Genoa Better for Families?

Genoa 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, Genoa is very family-friendly. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa Better for Couples?

Cefalu is terrific for couples. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Cefalu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Cefalu or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Genoa 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 Genoa can get you around easily. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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 Genoa a more walkable city?

Cefalu and Genoa are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Cefalu or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cefalu, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

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

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

One day in Cefalu or Genoa?

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 Genoa. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cefalu or Genoa?

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.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

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 Genoa. 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 Genoa?

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 energetic destination of Genoa. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cefalu and Genoa, we can see that Genoa 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 Genoa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Genoa 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 Genoa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

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 Genoa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Genoa. Many visitors come to Cefalu in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Genoa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Genoa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cefalu in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Genoa averages at about 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Genoa this time of the year. In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Genoa during summer. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Genoa. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cefalu or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Genoa. Most visitors come to Cefalu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Genoa because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cefalu is generally around the same temperature as Genoa. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 19°C (67°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in October than Genoa. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Genoa in the Winter?

Both Genoa and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

Cefalu is around the same temperature as Genoa in the winter. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Genoa during winter. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Genoa. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cefalu or Genoa in the Spring?

Both Genoa and Cefalu during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Genoa for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Cefalu. In the spring, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in April than Genoa. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Cefalu