A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Faro vs. Cagliari for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Old Town

Should you visit Faro or Cagliari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Cagliari, 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.

Faro

Faro is a busy, active, and popular resort town. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a under-rated, laid back, and relaxed city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Faro and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Faro or Cagliari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cagliari. Although Faro and Cagliari are popular destinations, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Faro attracts visitors for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Faro is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its historical sights and rich culture. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello.

How is Faro different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Faro or Cagliari?

Cagliari is great for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cagliari can be an interesting and educational experience. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Faro or Cagliari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cagliari is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cagliari. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is excellent in both Faro and Cagliari.

Many people head to Faro for the nightlife scene. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

Cagliari has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Resorts?

Faro is an amazing resort town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Faro is a perfect choice. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Faro is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is great for its beaches. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for the beache.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cagliari. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Faro. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari is great for its historic old town. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its old town.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to see the historical old town. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Many people head to Faro to see the old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Is the Shopping Better in Faro or Cagliari?

If you're looking to go shopping, Faro and Cagliari both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Faro. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Cagliari offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Families?

Cagliari is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Cagliari is a very family-friendly destination. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Couples?

Cagliari is great for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its romantic activities.

Cagliari is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Faro and Cagliari are nice places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Faro. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Cagliari is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Students?

Cagliari is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Faro is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Cagliari. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Faro is not popular with students.

Is Faro or Cagliari Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Faro and Cagliari both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Faro offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Cagliari has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Faro or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Cagliari is great for its walkability. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its high level of walkability.

Cagliari is very walkable. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Faro Worth Visiting? and Is Cagliari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Faro?

How long in Faro or Cagliari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Faro and Cagliari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Faro than in Cagliari. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Faro, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cagliari.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cagliari than Faro 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 Cagliari.

One day in Faro or Cagliari?

The resort town of Faro offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cagliari. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Faro or Cagliari?

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

Cagliari is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Faro or Cagliari?

Faro is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Faro, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Cagliari. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Faro or Cagliari?

Faro is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

The historic city of Cagliari offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Faro and Cagliari, we can see that Faro 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 Faro Expensive? and Is Cagliari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Faro or Cagliari?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Faro and Cagliari, 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 Faro or Cagliari?

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 Faro or Cagliari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Faro and Cagliari. Most visitors come to Faro for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Faro is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Faro in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Cagliari averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during summer. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Faro usually receives less rain than Cagliari. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Faro or Cagliari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Faro as well as Cagliari. The autumn months attract visitors to Faro because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year.

In October, Faro is generally around the same temperature as Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 20°C (68°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In the autumn, Faro often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets more rain in October than Cagliari. Faro gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Cagliari in the Winter?

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

Faro is a little warmer than Cagliari in the winter. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Cagliari fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Faro usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during winter. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Faro usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Faro or Cagliari in the Spring?

Both Cagliari and Faro during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Faro for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Cagliari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Faro is a little warmer than Cagliari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Faro in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Cagliari averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Cagliari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Faro. In the spring, Faro often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cagliari. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Faro