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

Should you visit Nafplio or Cadiz?

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

Should I visit Nafplio or Cadiz? 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.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a romantic, beautiful, and picturesque city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a undiscovered, historic, and authentic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nafplio and Cadiz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Nafplio or Cadiz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nafplio than Cadiz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nafplio is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cadiz is more popular for its shopping. Nafplio is more touristy than Cadiz and is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. Also, Nafplio is famous for Palamidi Castle. Cadiz is well known for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Nafplio different from Cadiz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nafplio or Cadiz?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Nafplio is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nafplio. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

Cadiz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.


Is the Food Better in Nafplio or Cadiz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Nafplio is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Nafplio makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

Cadiz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Is Nafplio or Cadiz Better for Nightlife?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Nafplio is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Nafplio offers plenty to do in the evening. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Nafplio or Cadiz Better for Beaches?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Nafplio is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Cadiz is not a good port city for the beache.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Nafplio. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

You can check out the beach in Cadiz. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.


Is Nafplio or Cadiz Better for its Old Town?

Nafplio
Cadiz

It's fun to wander around the excellent old towns in both Nafplio and Cadiz.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Cadiz?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Cadiz is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cadiz. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

Nafplio is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Is Nafplio or Cadiz Better for Families?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nafplio or Cadiz.

Nafplio is a family-friendly city. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cadiz. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.


Is Nafplio or Cadiz Better for Couples?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Nafplio is a well-known place for romance. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Nafplio is a very popular place to visit for couples. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

Cadiz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

Is Nafplio or Cadiz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Nafplio and Cadiz are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nafplio. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

Cadiz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

Is Nafplio or Cadiz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Nafplio and Cadiz.

Nafplio has some public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

You'll find some public transit in Cadiz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.


Is Nafplio or Cadiz a more walkable city?

Nafplio
Cadiz

Nafplio is renowned for its walkability. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Nafplio on foot. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

Cadiz is a very walkable city. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

For even more information, also check out Is Nafplio Worth Visiting? and Is Cadiz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cadiz or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Cadiz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nafplio or Cadiz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nafplio than Cadiz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nafplio, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cadiz.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nafplio than Cadiz 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 Nafplio.


  • How many days in Nafplio or Cadiz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nafplio 2-3 
    Cadiz 1-2

One day in Nafplio or Cadiz?

In Nafplio, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this picturesque destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Cadiz, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port 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 Nafplio or Cadiz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nafplio. 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.

In Cadiz, 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 Cadiz has to offer.


Five days in Nafplio or Cadiz?

Nafplio is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Nafplio. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Cadiz is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Nafplio or Cadiz?

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque destination of Nafplio. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cadiz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cadiz. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Cadiz or Nafplio?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nafplio is €112, while the average daily cost in Cadiz is €152. 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 Nafplio and Cadiz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nafplio 50
    Cadiz 77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nafplio 100
    Cadiz 154
Compare Hotels in Nafplio and Cadiz

Looking for a hotel in Nafplio or Cadiz? 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 Nafplio


Hotels in Cadiz


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: Nafplio Hotel Prices and Cadiz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nafplio 46
    Cadiz 30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nafplio

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

  • Athens: Bus Transfer to/from Nafplio: $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cadiz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cadiz:

  • Private Transfer from/to Cadiz Airport to/from Hotel: $87
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz city hotels to Cadiz Cruise Port: $28
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz Cruise Port to Seville city hotels: $93
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz Cruise Port to Seville Airport (SVQ): $93
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz Cruise Port to Cadiz City Hotels: $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Nafplio or Cadiz?

Prices for flights to both Cadiz and Nafplio 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
    Nafplio 34
    Cadiz 45

Typical Food Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Dinner and Tapas
    15
  • Lunch for 1
    10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cadiz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cadiz.

  • Tapas Food Tour in Jerez de la Frontera: $39
  • Food Tour Cadiz: $74
  • Tabancos Food Tour Jerez: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nafplio 22
    Cadiz 27

Tours and Activities in Nafplio

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

  • Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: $11
  • Highlights Walking Tour: $59
  • City Walking Tour: $85
  • Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus Private Full Day Tour with Sedan: $90
  • Visit Ancient Corinth Mycenae Nafplio Canal Private Tour 8H: $178
  • From Nafplion: Mycenae, Corinth Canal and Epidavros Day Tour: $181
  • Mycenae Epidavrous Nafplio Isthmus Canal Full Day Tour 8 H: $198
  • VIP Day Tour From Athens: Mycenae & Ancient Corinth TREK: $208
  • From Hydra Island Private-Tour to Nafplio, Epidaurus&Mycenae: $383
  • Argolis: Full-Day Private Peloponnese Tour from Athens: $425
  • From Athens: Peloponnese Full Day Private Tour & Audio Tour: $500
  • From Athens: Private Tour Mycenae Nafplio Epidaurus & Audio: $500

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Cadiz Sightseeing Tour
    15

Tours and Activities in Cadiz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cadiz are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Cadiz : $87
  • 2 Hours Tour around Cádiz: History, anecdotes and curiosities: $16
  • 3 Hour Tapa and Cultural Experience Walking Tour: $120
  • 3-Hour Private Gastronomic and Cultural Cadiz Walking Tour: $221
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Cádiz: $17
  • Audioguided Tour of Cádiz Monumental, at your pace: $4.25
  • Cádiz 2:45h Bike Tour: $38
  • Cádiz Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Experience: $8.98
  • Cádiz: Cadiz Milenaria Guided Tour: $13
  • Cádiz: Guided Bike Tour: $37
  • Cádiz: Local Tapas Experience: $160
  • Cádiz: Mysteries and Legends Walking Tour with Souvenir: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nafplio 6.86
    Cadiz 28

Sample the Local Flavors in Nafplio

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nafplio:

  • Nafplion: Nemea Vineyards Wine Tour: $170

Sample the Local Flavors in Cadiz

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cadiz:

  • Private Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Bike Rental: $106
  • Countryside Olive Oil & Wine Tasting: $128


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Cadiz?

Cadiz has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio and Cadiz, 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 Nafplio or Cadiz?

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 Nafplio or Cadiz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Cadiz. Many visitors come to Nafplio in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nafplio is around the same temperature as Cadiz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nafplio in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Cadiz averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the summer, Nafplio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cadiz. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cadiz receives 356 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets more rain in July than Cadiz. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 0 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nafplio 25°C (76°F) 
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Cadiz in the Autumn?

Both Cadiz and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nafplio is generally around the same temperature as Cadiz. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 19°C (66°F), and Cadiz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives less sunshine than Cadiz during autumn. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Cadiz receives 235 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nafplio. In October, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Cadiz. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nafplio 19°C (66°F) 
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Cadiz in the Winter?

Both Cadiz and Nafplio during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year.

Nafplio is cooler than Cadiz in the winter. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Cadiz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Nafplio often gets less sunshine than Cadiz. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cadiz receives 174 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually gets more rain in January than Cadiz. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nafplio 10°C (51°F) 
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Nafplio or Cadiz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Cadiz. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nafplio is cooler than Cadiz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nafplio in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Cadiz averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nafplio usually receives less sunshine than Cadiz during spring. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Cadiz receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cadiz. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nafplio 15°C (58°F) 
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F)

Typical Weather for Cadiz and Nafplio

Nafplio Cadiz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 102 mm (4 in) 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 154 mm (6.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)