A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Cefalu for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a spiritual, dramatic, and historic destination. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a coastal, historic, and touristy fishing village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cefalu than Kalampaka (Meteora), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cefalu is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is more popular for its museums. Kalampaka (Meteora) is well known for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Cefalu is well known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Also, Cefalu is famous for the beaches.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Cefalu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cefalu and Kalampaka (Meteora). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kalampaka (Meteora) are world-renowned. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.


Is the Food Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Cefalu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cefalu. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu Better for Resorts?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Cefalu to choose from. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu Better for Beaches?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is a very popular place for the beache. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Cefalu for it's beautiful beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu Better for its Old Town?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is a very popular place for its old town. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu Better for Hiking?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Cefalu offers some nice hiking trails. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is a decent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Cefalu has some nice offerings. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu are notable family-friendly destinations.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a family-friendly destination. There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cefalu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Cefalu

Cefalu is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Cefalu is a very walkable fishing village. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Cefalu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cefalu or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu. In our opinion, Cefalu has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cefalu than Kalampaka (Meteora). In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kalampaka (Meteora), and 1-3 days is enough time in Cefalu.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cefalu than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Cefalu.


  • How many days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Cefalu 1-3

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Cefalu is a small town with plenty to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, 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.

Many people visit Cefalu for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cefalu, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kalampaka (Meteora). Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

Because Cefalu is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the dramatic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). This destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Since Cefalu is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This fishing village offers something for everyone. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Cefalu or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, while the average daily cost in Cefalu is €119. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Cefalu 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Cefalu 174
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu? 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


Hotels in Cefalu


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: Cefalu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Cefalu 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274
  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

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

  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $174
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $104
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Prices for flights to both Cefalu and Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Cefalu 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

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

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Cefalu 5.71

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • 3-Hour Hiking and Scramble Guided Tour of Great Saint in Meteora: $82
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Discover Meteora's Monastic Heritage: Personalized Private Tour: $240
  • Golden Sunrise Meteora Private Photo Tour: $147
  • Half-Day Meteora Cultural Tour from Kalambaka train station: $47
  • Hiking Tour to Meteora from Kalambaka - Local Agency: $49
  • Kalambaka's Train Station: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Lunch: $52

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $272
  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $224

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Cefalu 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76

Sample the Local Flavors in Cefalu

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

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49


When comparing the travel costs between Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu, we can see that Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) Expensive? and Is Cefalu Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

Cefalu has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu in the Summer?

Both Cefalu and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Kalampaka (Meteora) because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is around the same temperature as Cefalu in the summer. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Cefalu fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Cefalu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cefalu during summer. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more rain than Cefalu. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F) 
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu in the Autumn?

Both Cefalu and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cefalu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) is cooler than Cefalu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Cefalu averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets less sunshine than Cefalu. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 189 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in October than Cefalu. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F) 
    Cefalu 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Cefalu. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cefalu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally much colder than Cefalu. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 6°C (42°F), and Cefalu fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less sunshine than Cefalu during winter. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Cefalu. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F) 
    Cefalu 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Cefalu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Cefalu. Many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cefalu for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is around the same temperature as Cefalu in the spring. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Cefalu fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of the year. In the spring, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cefalu. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 204 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in April than Cefalu. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F) 
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Cefalu and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) Cefalu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)


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