A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Florence for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cesis or Florence?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Florence can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a traditional, quaint, and small town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of Florence is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Florence travel costs.

Cesis and Florence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)


Is there more to do in Cesis or Florence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florence than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florence is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Florence is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Cesis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Florence?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is renowned for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean and cabbage soup. You'll also find all of your favorite Italian staples and many great family-owned trattorie.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Florence has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is renowned for its old town. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.


Is Cesis or Florence Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Florence

Cesis is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Cesis has hiking trails worth exploring. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Florence?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Florence is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Florence More Beautiful?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Florence is one of the main draws. The city's beautiful architecture and impressive gardens make it among the most beautiful cities in the world.

Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.


Is Cesis or Florence Better for Families?

Cesis
Florence

Both Cesis and Florence are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cesis. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Florence offers lots of family activities. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Cesis or Florence Better for Couples?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Florence is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is renowned for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.


Is Cesis or Florence Better for Students?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is renowned for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Florence is a very popular city for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Cesis is not popular with students.

Is Cesis or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Florence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has a comprehensive bus system.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Florence a more walkable city?

Cesis
Florence

Florence is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot and the striking beauty and and pedestrian-friendly areas make it a great place to wander. During peak seasons, the streets can get crowded.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Florence?

Both Cesis and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Florence than Cesis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Cesis 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 Florence.


  • How many days in Cesis or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Florence 2-7

One day in Cesis or Florence?

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

In Florence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this artistic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Cesis or Florence?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Florence?

Cesis 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.

Florence is a fun place to experience. In Florence, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Cesis or Florence?

Cesis is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

In Florence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this artistic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Florence or Cesis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cesis Prices
    Latvia Prices
    Florence Prices
    Italy Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cesis 138
    Florence 180

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €138, while the average daily cost in Florence is €180. 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 Cesis and Florence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Florence 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Florence 174
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or Florence? 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 Cesis


Hotels in Florence


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: Florence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    Florence 22

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:


  • Taxi Ride Within City
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    25
  • In City Parking (Full Day)
    30
  • Bus Pass (Full Day)
    5.00
  • Bus From Airport
    5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

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

  • 3 Cellars in Chianti with Visits, Wine Tastings, Lunch&Transfer: $206
  • Airport Transfer: Airport FLR to Florence by Business Car: $191
  • Airport Transfer: Airport FLR to Florence by Luxury Van: $218
  • Airport Transfer: Florence to Airport FLR by Business Car: $191
  • Airport Transfer: Florence to Airport FLR by Luxury Van: $218
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport FLR to Florence by Business Car: $191
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport FLR to Florence by Luxury Van: $218
  • Departure Transfer: Florence to Airport FLR by Business Car: $191
  • Departure Transfer: Florence to Airport FLR by Luxury Van: $218
  • Direct transfer from Florence to Livorno with private driver: $212
  • Florence Airport (FLR) to Florence hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $74
  • Florence Airport (FLR) to Florence hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $149

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence and Cesis 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
    Cesis 71
    Florence 62
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:


  • Panini Sandwich
    6.50
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

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

  • Italian Cooking Class Fresh Pasta and Traditional Tiramisu: $22
  • Pasta Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine: $29
  • Florence Old City Street Food Tour and Guided Sightseeing: $34
  • Pasta Cooking Class for Families & Wine and Soft Drinks: $34
  • Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Lunch or Dinner: $35
  • Florence Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine: $35
  • The Italian Way: Pizza and Gelato Class with Unlimited Wine: $44
  • Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours: $45
  • Florence's Food Tour with Authentic Local Tastigs and Sightseeing: $50
  • Florence Street Food Tour with Walking Sightseeing and Local Guide: $50
  • Florence Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $53
  • Florence Food Tour with Local Guide and City Highlights: $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis 16
    Florence 30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Admission to Uffizi
    11
  • Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi
    4.00
  • Firenze Card (for Two)
    100
  • Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two)
    20
  • Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee
    6.00
  • Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee
    7.00

Tours and Activities in Florence

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

  • The Best Tour in Renaissance and Medici Tales: $3.53
  • Florence's Hidden Gems: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $3.53
  • Experience Florence’s Art and Architecture on a Walking Tour: $3.54
  • Explore Florence : Digital Audio Guide Tour: $4.72
  • Florence, City centre, Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $5.12
  • Florence, Outer ring, Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $5.12
  • In the footsteps of the Medicis: Florence Renaissance Audio Tour: $5.50
  • AudioZoom into A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Florence Walking Tour 3h10 and 25 audio commentary: $6.96
  • Medici Secrets & Mysteries: Interactive Walking Tour Game: $7.06
  • Florence Walking Tour: Self-Guided City Game: $7.06
  • Duomo 1-Hour Express Highlights Tour: $7.55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    Florence 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:


  • Glass of Chianti
    4.20
  • Bottle of Wine
    7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

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

  • Authentic Tuscan Wine Tasting Experience: $18
  • Classic Wine Tasting by Carus Wines: $24
  • Wine Tasting Experience near Florence: $29
  • Florence Nightlife Pub Crawl 3 Bars and 1 Club with Games: $29
  • Super Tuscan Wine Tour by Carus Vini: $29
  • Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $35
  • Wine Tasting in an Authentic Tuscan Cellar in Radda in Chianti: $38
  • Montefioralle Winery - Tour and Wine Tasting in Chianti: $41
  • Wine Tasting with Cured Meats and Cheeses in Florence: $42
  • Sip & Savor Italian Wine Tasting in the Heart of Florence: $46
  • Wine Tasting of Brunello with Tuscan Cold Cuts and Cheese: $46
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience in the heart of Tuscany: $47


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cesis and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. And not only is Cesis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cesis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cesis 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence than you might in Cesis.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cesis Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and Florence, 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 Cesis or Florence?

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 Cesis or Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Cesis during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Florence because of the family-friendly experiences.

Cesis is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Cesis usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Florence 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Florence. The autumn months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In the autumn, Cesis is much colder than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cesis in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In October, Cesis usually receives less rain than Florence. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Florence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Florence in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Cesis in the winter. In January, Cesis is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around -5°C (23°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Florence. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Florence 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Florence in the Spring?

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

Cesis is much colder than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than Florence. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Florence 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Florence and Cesis

Cesis Florence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 21°C (70°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)