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

Should you visit Lisbon or Cagliari?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a relaxed, historic, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Cagliari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Cagliari, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cagliari is known for its beaches. Lisbon is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Cagliari is popular for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches.

How is Lisbon different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon are world-renowned. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Cagliari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Dining out in Cagliari is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Lisbon or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Cagliari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Lisbon or Cagliari Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Cagliari is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Lisbon. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Cagliari is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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 Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Lisbon or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Cagliari?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lisbon draws large crowds to its stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Cagliari Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Cagliari.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Cagliari is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Lisbon or Cagliari Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lisbon is extremely popular for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Cagliari Better for Students?

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

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international 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.

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

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city 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 Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Cagliari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Cagliari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Cagliari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Cagliari. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cagliari.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Cagliari?

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cagliari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Cagliari?

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cagliari is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Cagliari?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cagliari. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Lisbon or Cagliari?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Cagliari. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week 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 Lisbon and Cagliari, we can see that Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive? and Is Cagliari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Cagliari?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Cagliari in the Summer?

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

In July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Cagliari in the Autumn?

Both Cagliari and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, 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.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Cagliari in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Cagliari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

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

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Cagliari. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Cagliari in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Lisbon is a little warmer than Cagliari. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Cagliari averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Cagliari in the Spring?

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

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 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 Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Cagliari. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Lisbon