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

Should you visit Granada or Cagliari?

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

Should I visit Granada or Cagliari? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Granada

Granada is a beautiful, charming, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cagliari

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

Granada and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Cagliari?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cagliari than Granada. While Granada is larger than Cagliari, Cagliari has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its food, beaches, and big city activities, while Granada attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Granada is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello.

How is Granada different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Granada is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Granada are world-renowned. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

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.

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

Cagliari is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Granada. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Is Granada or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Cagliari have great vibes after the sun sets.

Granada has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

The people in Cagliari know how to have a good time. 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 Granada or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Cagliari is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Granada or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

Granada is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Granada offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

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.

Is Granada or Cagliari Better for Hiking?

Granada is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Granada. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Cagliari?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Granada and Cagliari.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Granada. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

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 Granada or Cagliari Better for Families?

Cagliari is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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!

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Granada. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

Is Granada or Cagliari Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and Cagliari make for a great place to visit.

Granada makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

Couples visit Cagliari frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Granada or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Granada. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Granada or Cagliari Better for Students?

Granada is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Granada is very popular with students. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

Cagliari is popular with students. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Granada and Cagliari.

Granada has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

You'll find some public transit in Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Granada or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Granada and Cagliari are great when it comes to walkability.

Granada is very walkable. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Granada?

How long in Granada or Cagliari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Granada and Cagliari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Granada than in Cagliari. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cagliari.

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

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

One day in Granada or Cagliari?

The beautiful city of Granada offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

In Cagliari, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Granada or Cagliari?

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

In Cagliari, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cagliari has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Cagliari?

Granada is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

Cagliari is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

A week in Granada or Cagliari?

Granada is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cagliari. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cagliari. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Cagliari?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Granada 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 Granada 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 Granada or Cagliari in the Summer?

Both Cagliari and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cagliari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Granada is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Cagliari averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Cagliari. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Cagliari in the Autumn?

Both Cagliari and Granada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cagliari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cagliari. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Cagliari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Cagliari. Many visitors come to Granada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Cagliari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Granada as well as Cagliari. Most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Granada is a little warmer than Cagliari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Cagliari averages at about 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in April than Cagliari. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Granada