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

Should you visit Cefalu or Rome?

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 Rome. 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.

Rome

Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Cefalu and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome. Although Cefalu and Rome are both popular with visitors, Rome has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cefalu is known for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Cefalu and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Cefalu is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food.

The Colosseum

How is Cefalu different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome 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 Rome are world-renowned. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rome 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 Rome, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

People head to Rome just to party. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

Rome is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Cefalu is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Cefalu is not a live music destination.

Is Cefalu or Rome Better for Resorts?

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

In Cefalu, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Cefalu or Rome Better for Beaches?

Cefalu is a great destination for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Cefalu attract visitors from all over. 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Cefalu or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Cefalu is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is Cefalu or Rome Better for Hiking?

Cefalu is a fishing village with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Rome?

Rome is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Rome draws large crowds to its stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome Better for Families?

Rome 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, Rome is very family-friendly. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

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 Rome Better for Couples?

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

Cefalu is a great fishing village for couples, as it 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.

Rome is a great fishing village if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Cefalu or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rome is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

Rome is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cefalu is not popular with students.

Rome is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

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

With a huge network, the transit system in Rome can get you around easily. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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 Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Rome. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Rome?

Both Cefalu and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Cefalu. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cefalu, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

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

One day in Cefalu or Rome?

Cefalu is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cefalu or Rome?

Cefalu is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Rome is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cefalu or Rome?

Cefalu is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This fishing village offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cefalu or Rome?

Because Cefalu is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Rome, we can see that Rome 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 Rome would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rome 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 Rome Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu and Rome, 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 Rome?

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 Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Cefalu during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Rome because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cefalu in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In Rome, 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 Rome. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Rome. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Rome. The autumn months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

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

Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during autumn. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Rome. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cefalu or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Rome. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Rome. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cefalu in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

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

In April, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Rome. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Cefalu