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

Should you visit Hydra or Cagliari?

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

Should I visit Hydra 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.

Hydra

Hydra is a accessible, quaint, and picturesque island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a historic, under-rated, and laid back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Hydra and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Cagliari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cagliari. Although Hydra and Cagliari are popular destinations, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Hydra attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hydra is more touristy than Cagliari and is popular for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello.

How is Hydra different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Hydra and Cagliari have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

Many visitors head to Cagliari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Hydra or Cagliari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cagliari is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cagliari makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Hydra has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Is Hydra or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Cagliari Better for Resorts?

Hydra is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Hydra makes a nice vacation spot. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Cagliari Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra 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 Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is a great destination for its beaches. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

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.

Many people head to Hydra to enjoy the beach. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Is Hydra or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the great old towns in both Hydra and Cagliari.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cagliari. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Is Hydra or Cagliari Better for Hiking?

Hydra 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 Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Cagliari?

Hydra is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Hydra is well-known for its shopping. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to go shopping. 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 Hydra or Cagliari Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Cagliari.

Hydra is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cagliari is very family-friendly. 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!

Is Hydra or Cagliari Better for Couples?

Hydra is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Hydra has plenty to offer. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

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 Hydra or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Cagliari Better for Students?

Cagliari is a popular place for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

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.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Cagliari is a popular place for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Hydra is an amazing island to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hydra. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

Cagliari is a very walkable destination. 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 Hydra Worth Visiting? and Is Cagliari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Cagliari?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cagliari than Hydra 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 Hydra or Cagliari?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Cagliari, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hydra or Cagliari?

Hydra is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island 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 Hydra, 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 Cagliari. 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 Hydra or Cagliari?

Hydra 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.

Cagliari is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cagliari. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hydra or Cagliari?

Hydra is a great place to explore. 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 island offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the under-rated destination of Cagliari. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Cagliari?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra or Cagliari?

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 Hydra or Cagliari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Cagliari. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cagliari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hydra is a little warmer than Cagliari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Cagliari averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the summer, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets more rain in July than Cagliari. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Cagliari in the Autumn?

Both Cagliari and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cagliari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cagliari. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Cagliari in the Winter?

Both Cagliari and Hydra during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hydra 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.

Hydra is around the same temperature as Cagliari in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Cagliari fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Cagliari. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Cagliari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Cagliari. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Cagliari. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Hydra