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

Should you visit Cefalu or Naples?

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 Naples. 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.

Naples

Naples is a authentic, gritty, and colorful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cefalu and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Naples?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Naples. Although Cefalu and Naples are both popular with visitors, Naples has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Naples is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cefalu is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cefalu is more touristy than Naples and is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Naples is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. It is also home to Piazza del Plebiscito.

How is Cefalu different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples 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 Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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 Naples? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Naples 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 Naples, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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 Naples Better for Nightlife?

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

Naples has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic 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 Naples Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is well known for its resorts. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a resort destination.

Is Cefalu or Naples Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Cefalu or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Cefalu and Naples.

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 Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Is Cefalu or Naples Better for Hiking?

Cefalu is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Naples?

Naples is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Naples is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

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 Naples Better for Families?

Both Cefalu and Naples are good family-friendly destinations.

Cefalu is a family-friendly fishing village. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Naples. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Cefalu or Naples Better for Couples?

Cefalu is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Naples is a great fishing village if you're traveling as a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Is Cefalu or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Naples. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

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 Naples Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Naples 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 Naples can get you around easily. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

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 Naples a more walkable city?

Cefalu and Naples are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Naples is a very walkable destination. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Naples?

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

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

One day in Cefalu or Naples?

Cefalu might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Naples is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Naples?

Cefalu 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.

Naples 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 Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Don't miss the food, 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 Naples?

Cefalu is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This fishing village 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the gritty big city of Naples. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Naples?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu and Naples, 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 Naples?

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 Naples in the Summer?

Both Naples and Cefalu during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Naples for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cefalu is a little warmer than Naples. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cefalu in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Naples averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Naples, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cefalu. In the summer, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Naples. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 313 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Naples. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Naples in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Naples. 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 Naples because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Cefalu is generally a little warmer than Naples. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 19°C (67°F), and Naples fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

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

Naples receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Naples. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cefalu or Naples in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Naples. 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 Naples this time of year.

Cefalu is a little warmer than Naples in the winter. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Naples fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Naples. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Naples. Cefalu usually gets less rain in January than Naples. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Naples in the Spring?

Both Naples and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Naples for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cefalu is a little warmer than Naples. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cefalu in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Naples averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Naples during spring. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Naples. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Naples and Cefalu