A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Delphi vs. Catania for Attractions, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Delphi or Catania?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Delphi or Catania, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Delphi

Delphi is a fascinating, world-renowned, and historic archeological site. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Catania

Catania is a fun, historic, and lively port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Delphi and Catania: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Temple of Apollo
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to Mount Etna
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Delphi or Catania?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Catania than Delphi. While Delphi is larger than Catania, Catania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Catania is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Delphi is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Delphi is more touristy than Catania and is popular for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology. Catania is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna.

How is Delphi different from Catania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Delphi or Catania?

Delphi
Catania

Delphi is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Delphi are among the most recognizable in the world. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.


Is the Food Better in Delphi or Catania? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Catania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

Delphi offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.

Is Delphi or Catania Better for Nightlife?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is great for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Catania for the nightlife scene. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.

Is Delphi or Catania Better for Beaches?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Delphi is not a beach destination.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Delphi is not a beach destination.


Is Delphi or Catania Better for its Old Town?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Delphi does not have a historic old town.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Delphi does not have a historic old town.

Is Delphi or Catania Better for Hiking?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is great for hiking. However, Delphi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Catania for the hiking trails. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Delphi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Delphi or Catania?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Delphi or Catania Better for Families?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Catania. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

Delphi is a family-friendly place to visit. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.

Is Delphi or Catania Better for Couples?

Delphi
Catania

Delphi and Catania are both good to visit as a couple.

Delphi is a good archeological site for couples to visit. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.

Catania is a nice destination for couples. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Delphi or Catania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Delphi is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Delphi or Catania Better for Students?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Delphi is not popular with students.

Catania is a great port city to visit as a student. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Delphi is not popular with students.

Is Delphi or Catania Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Delphi
Catania

Catania is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Catania. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

Delphi has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.

Is Delphi or Catania a more walkable city?

Delphi
Catania

Delphi and Catania are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Delphi is a very walkable destination. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore on foot.

Catania is very walkable. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Delphi Worth Visiting? and Is Catania Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Catania or Delphi?

How long in Delphi or Catania?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Delphi or Catania to fill your time. In our opinion, Catania has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Catania than Delphi. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Catania than Delphi 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 Catania.


  • How many days in Delphi or Catania? Ideal Length of Stay
    Delphi 1-2 
    Catania 1-2

One day in Delphi or Catania?

In Delphi, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Delphi or Catania?

In Delphi, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Delphi has to offer.

Catania 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 Delphi or Catania?

Delphi is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Catania. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Delphi or Catania?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delphi. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Delphi. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun destination of Catania. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Catania or Delphi?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Delphi is €102, while the average daily cost in Catania is €120. 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 Delphi and Catania in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Delphi 59
    Catania 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Delphi 118
    Catania 130
Compare Hotels in Delphi and Catania

Looking for a hotel in Delphi or Catania? 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 Delphi


Hotels in Catania


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: Catania Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Delphi 8.57
    Catania 20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Catania

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Catania:

  • From 1-Way Private Airport Transfer to Palermo: $775
  • Catania Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Palermo by Car: $722
  • TAXI Transfer from CATANIA to Capo d'Orlando (or vice versa): $421
  • From Catania Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Agrigento: $373
  • Private TAXI transfer from Catania to Agrigento or viceversa: $332
  • Catania Airport to/from Verdura Resort Transfer: $321
  • From Private transfer to Agrigento Temples: $320
  • Private Transfer from Catania to PORTOROSA marina yachting: $310
  • Private Transfer From Catania to Palermo or vice versa: $256
  • PRIVATE TRANSFER from CATANIA to PALERMO (or VICEVERSA): $233
  • Private TAXI transfer from CATANIA to MESSINA or viceversa: $230
  • Private transfer service from Catania to Ragusa or viceversa: $214

Is it cheaper to fly into Delphi or Catania?

Prices for flights to both Catania and Delphi 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
    Delphi 36
    Catania 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Catania

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

  • Catania Street Food Tour: Fish Market & City Centre: $38
  • Catania Street Food Tour: $52
  • Cooking class & visit to the Catania Historical market: $59
  • Patisserie Food tour: $60
  • Guided Street Food Tour with Tastings: $63
  • Food tour of Catania by night: $64
  • Catania Street Food Tour: $67
  • Guided Street Food Tour with Tastings: $73
  • Aci Trezza boat tour with dinner on board: $85
  • Cooking Class Tiramisù: $95
  • Cooking Class Arancini in Catania: $96
  • Cooking class Pizza: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Delphi 11
    Catania 19

Tours and Activities in Delphi

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

  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Earth's Navel: $4.60
  • Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.48
  • Delphi Audiovisual Self-guided Tour with 3D Representations: $7.59
  • Delphi Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • Ticket & Audio Tour for Delphi's Oracle. Listen to Ancient Echoes: $13
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Guide: $16
  • Self-Guided Virtual Tour Experience from your Home: $17
  • Self-guided Virtual Tour of The Google of the Ancient world: $17
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Refundable Ticket with Audio: $18
  • Audio Guided tour of the sites in French or English: $19
  • Athens: Mythology of Delphi and Museum Guided Day Tour: $26

Tours and Activities in Catania

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

  • From Catania, Syracuse and Taormina: fly fishing experience: $240
  • Taormina and Castelmola private tour with traditional lunch: $272
  • 2 hours guided tour of Catania: $40
  • 3-Hour Catania Segway PT Authorized Tour: $118
  • Agrigento and Piazza Armerina day tour: $131
  • BOAT TOUR WITH APERITIF ON BOARD IN THE CYCLOPS ISLANDS: $64
  • Baroque shades of Sicily (Noto, Modica and Ragusa day tour): $120
  • Benedictine Monastery of Guided tour in English: $11
  • Boat tour to the Ulysses caves with swimming guide: $84
  • Boat trip and tour Savoca and Taormina: $142
  • Catania : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $49
  • Catania Bike Tour with Tasting food: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Delphi 13
    Catania 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Catania

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

  • Volcanic Wine Tasting in a Metropolitan Market: $48
  • Wine Tasting in the South Slope of Etna: $50
  • Etna: Urban Winery, Vineyards Walk & Wine Tasting at Sunset: $62
  • Wine tour in Catania: $102
  • Mt Etna and Wine tasting tour from Catania: $116
  • Full-Day Etna and Wine Tour from Catania: $126
  • From Mt.Etna picnic and wine tasting: $128
  • Guided Tour of Etna with Wine Tasting & Appetizers: $139
  • Etna trekking and wine tasting: $147
  • Tour Etna & Wine Tasting: $158
  • Etna Tour and Lunch in a Winery with Wine Tasting: $265
  • From Catania/Taormina: Mount Etna Private Wine Tasting Tour: $433


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

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


Which is Bigger, Delphi or Catania?

Delphi has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Catania. When comparing the sizes of Delphi and Catania, 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.

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