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

Should you visit Cefalu or Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. 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. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a historical, compact, and authentic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Cefalu and Zaragoza: 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cefalu or Zaragoza?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cefalu. Although Cefalu and Zaragoza are both popular with visitors, Cefalu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cefalu is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Zaragoza is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Cefalu is more touristy than Zaragoza and is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. It is also home to the beaches. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Cefalu different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the AljaferĂ­a Palace, among others.

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 Zaragoza? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Foodies will find both Cefalu and Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza is an experience not to be missed. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Cefalu or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

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 Zaragoza Better for Resorts?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Cefalu is notable for its resorts. However, Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is not a resort destination.


Is Cefalu or Zaragoza Better for Beaches?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Cefalu is notable for the beach. However, Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Cefalu or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

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

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 Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Is Cefalu or Zaragoza Better for Hiking?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Cefalu is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Zaragoza?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

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

Zaragoza is well-known for its shopping. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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 Zaragoza Better for Families?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Both Cefalu and Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Cefalu or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Cefalu is an amazing fishing village to visit for couples. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Zaragoza makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.


Is Cefalu or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Zaragoza. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

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 Zaragoza Better for Students?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

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

Plenty of students visit Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza can get you around easily. There are buses and trams 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 Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Cefalu
Zaragoza

Cefalu and Zaragoza are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Zaragoza is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Zaragoza?

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

Families should spend more time in Cefalu than Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza.


  • How many days in Cefalu or Zaragoza? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cefalu 1-3 
    Zaragoza 1-3

One day in Cefalu or Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza?

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.

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza?

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 historical destination of Zaragoza. 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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza is €126. 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 Zaragoza in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cefalu 87
    Zaragoza 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cefalu 174
    Zaragoza 130
Compare Hotels in Cefalu and Zaragoza

Looking for a hotel in Cefalu or Zaragoza? 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 Zaragoza


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 Zaragoza Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cefalu 4.29
    Zaragoza 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $66
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $66
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Cefalu or Zaragoza?

Prices for flights to both Zaragoza 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
    Zaragoza 41

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 Zaragoza

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zaragoza.

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cefalu 5.71
    Zaragoza 35

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

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

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

Tours and Activities in Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • Complete tour + wine and tapas: $202
  • Evening traditional tapas walking tour in old Zaragoza center: $104
  • Haft-day Winery tour from Zaragoza: $158
  • Kayaking in Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS: $44
  • Midday Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Old Town of Belchite: $102
  • Midday market and tapas tour of Zaragoza: $104
  • Monumental Walking Tour in Old Town of Zaragoza: $93
  • Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Belchite Old Town: $104
  • Olive Oil and Winery Tour from Zaragoza City: $164
  • Private custom tour with a local guide Zaragoza: $49
  • Zaragoza - Historic Walking Tour: $320
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cefalu 11
    Zaragoza 14

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 Zaragoza

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

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $102
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $104


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


Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the summer, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Zaragoza. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F) 
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

Both Zaragoza and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Zaragoza because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza during autumn. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cefalu usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cefalu 19°C (67°F) 
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Zaragoza in the Winter?

Both Zaragoza and Cefalu during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

Cefalu is a little warmer than Zaragoza in the winter. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Zaragoza. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets more rain in January than Zaragoza. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cefalu 10°C (51°F) 
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Zaragoza in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza for the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza during spring. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zaragoza. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F) 
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Cefalu

Cefalu Zaragoza
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in)


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