A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cefalu vs. Toulon for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Old Town

Should you visit Cefalu or Toulon?

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 Toulon. 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 here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Toulon

Toulon is a off-the-beaten-path, real world, and industrial port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Cefalu and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Toulon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cefalu. Although Cefalu and Toulon are popular destinations, Cefalu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cefalu is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Toulon attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Cefalu is more touristy than Toulon and is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. It is also well known for the beaches. Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Cefalu different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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 Toulon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cefalu is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cefalu makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Cefalu or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Toulon 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 Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

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 Toulon Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a resort destination.

Is Cefalu or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cefalu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Cefalu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cefalu or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Cefalu is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Cefalu or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is Cefalu or Toulon Better for Hiking?

Cefalu is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Toulon?

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

Toulon is well-known for its shopping. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

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 Toulon Better for Families?

Both Cefalu and Toulon are nice 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 Toulon. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Cefalu or Toulon Better for Couples?

Cefalu is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Cefalu or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

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 Toulon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

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 Toulon a more walkable city?

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

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

Toulon is a very walkable destination. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Toulon?

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

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

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

One day in Cefalu or Toulon?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Toulon. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cefalu or Toulon?

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.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon. 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 Toulon?

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 authentic destination of Toulon. 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Toulon?

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

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 Toulon in the Summer?

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

In July, Cefalu is generally around the same temperature as Toulon. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 26°C (79°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the summer, Cefalu often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Toulon. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon 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 Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cefalu is a little warmer than Toulon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Toulon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. Cefalu usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during autumn. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Toulon. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cefalu or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon 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. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Toulon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cefalu is much warmer than Toulon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cefalu in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Toulon averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in January than Toulon. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Toulon in the Spring?

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

In April, Cefalu is generally around the same temperature as Toulon. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 15°C (58°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during spring. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Toulon. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Cefalu