A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cefalu vs. Toulouse for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cefalu or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a vibrant, friendly, and relaxed city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cefalu and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cefalu or Toulouse?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toulouse. Although Cefalu and Toulouse are both popular with visitors, Toulouse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Toulouse 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 Toulouse and is known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also home to Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Cefalu different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cefalu
Toulouse

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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 Toulouse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cefalu
Toulouse

Toulouse 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 Toulouse, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local 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 Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Cefalu
Toulouse

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

Toulouse has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

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 Toulouse Better for Resorts?

Cefalu
Toulouse

Cefalu is great for its luxury resorts. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a resort destination.


Is Cefalu or Toulouse Better for Beaches?

Cefalu
Toulouse

Cefalu is great for the beach. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Is Cefalu or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu
Toulouse

Visitors enjoy the very good old town areas in both Cefalu and Toulouse.

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 Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Is Cefalu or Toulouse Better for Hiking?

Cefalu
Toulouse

Cefalu is a fishing village with good options for hiking. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Toulouse?

Cefalu
Toulouse

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

Toulouse is well-known for its shopping. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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 Toulouse Better for Families?

Cefalu
Toulouse

Toulouse 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, Toulouse is very family-friendly. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse Better for Couples?

Cefalu
Toulouse

Cefalu is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Toulouse is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.


Is Cefalu or Toulouse Better for Students?

Cefalu
Toulouse

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

Plenty of students visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Cefalu
Toulouse

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

Toulouse has some public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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 Toulouse a more walkable city?

Cefalu
Toulouse

Cefalu and Toulouse are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Toulouse is a very walkable destination. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Cefalu or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Toulouse 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 Toulouse.

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

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


  • How many days in Cefalu or Toulouse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cefalu 1-3 
    Toulouse 2-4

One day in Cefalu or Toulouse?

Cefalu is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Toulouse. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cefalu or Toulouse?

Cefalu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this fishing village makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cefalu, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Toulouse 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 Toulouse?

Cefalu is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Cefalu is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This fishing village offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Toulouse. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulouse or Cefalu?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cefalu is €119, while the average daily cost in Toulouse is €125. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cefalu and Toulouse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cefalu 87
    Toulouse 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cefalu 174
    Toulouse 134
Compare Hotels in Cefalu and Toulouse

Looking for a hotel in Cefalu or Toulouse? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cefalu


Hotels in Toulouse


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cefalu Hotel Prices and Toulouse Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cefalu 4.29
    Toulouse 41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

Also for Cefalu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $174
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $104
  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98
  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulouse

Also for Toulouse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from BLAGNAC Airport to all other destinations in Toulouse: $53
  • Transfer Toulouse to Carcassonne center: $240
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse city centre to Toulouse Airport: $66
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse Airport to City centre: $67
  • Private transfer your alternative to taxi for your travels: $93
  • Private transfer from or to Toulouse Airport: $87
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toulouse to Toulouse Airport TLS in Luxury Van: $92
  • Arrival Transfer Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse by Car or Van: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Cefalu or Toulouse?

Prices for flights to both Toulouse and Cefalu change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cefalu 28
    Toulouse 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulouse

For Toulouse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • No Diet Club - Best food tour in Toulouse !: $52
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $76
  • Traditional Toulouse Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Victor Hugo Market Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $105
  • Marché Victor Hugo Small Group Food Tour: $107

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cefalu 5.71
    Toulouse 15

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $272
  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $224

Tours and Activities in Toulouse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Toulouse.

  • Aeroscopia Admission Ticket: $16
  • Day Trip to Carcassonne Cite Medievale and Comtale Castle Tour from Toulouse: $35
  • Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Toulouse with Official Tour Guide: $255
  • Private tour of Toulouse in an electric Tuk Tuk: $66
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Toulouse : Must-see Walking Tour: $80
  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.13
  • Toulouse : Walking tour with audio guide: $5.29
  • Toulouse E Bike Tour: $49
  • Toulouse E-Bike Tour: $48
  • Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef: $118
  • Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef (in English): $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cefalu 11
    Toulouse 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Cefalu

Also in Cefalu, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulouse

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Toulouse:

  • Pub Crawl Toulouse: $20
  • From Toulouse Cite de carcassonne et wine tasting: $530


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


Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Toulouse. Most visitors come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cefalu is a little warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cefalu in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Toulouse averages at about 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulouse this time of the year. In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during summer. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Toulouse. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F) 
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Toulouse in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Toulouse. 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. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

In October, Cefalu is generally a little warmer than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 19°C (67°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets more rain in October than Toulouse. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cefalu 19°C (67°F) 
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Toulouse in the Winter?

Both Toulouse and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cefalu is much warmer than Toulouse in the winter. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during winter. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulouse. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cefalu 10°C (51°F) 
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Toulouse in the Spring?

Both Toulouse and Cefalu during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Toulouse in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cefalu is a little warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cefalu in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Toulouse averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Cefalu. In the spring, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in April than Toulouse. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F) 
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Cefalu

Cefalu Toulouse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)