A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Tenerife vs. Cadiz for Nightlife, Families, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Tenerife or Cadiz?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tenerife or Cadiz, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a beautiful, volcanic, and scenic island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a undiscovered, historic, and authentic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Tenerife and Cadiz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tenerife or Cadiz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tenerife. Although Tenerife and Cadiz are both popular with visitors, Tenerife has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tenerife is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cadiz is known for its museums and historical sights. Tenerife is more touristy than Cadiz and is popular for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. It is also home to Mount Teide. Cadiz is popular for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Tenerife different from Cadiz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cadiz is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Cadiz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

Both Tenerife and Cadiz offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cadiz. 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 Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Nightlife?

Tenerife is renowned for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Tenerife is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

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 Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Cadiz is not a resort destination.

In Tenerife, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Cadiz is not a resort destination.

Is Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cadiz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tenerife is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Cadiz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Beaches?

Tenerife is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Cadiz is not a good port city for the beache.

The beaches at Tenerife attract visitors from all over. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

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 Tenerife or Cadiz Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cadiz to see the historical old town. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Around Tenerife visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tenerife or Cadiz?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Tenerife and Cadiz.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Tenerife. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

Cadiz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Families?

Tenerife is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tenerife is an extremely popular island to visit for families. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

Cadiz is a family-friendly island. 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 Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Couples?

Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is a very popular place to visit for couples. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

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 Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tenerife and Cadiz are both good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Tenerife. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

Cadiz is a good island to visit for backpackers. 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 Tenerife or Cadiz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Tenerife and Cadiz.

Tenerife has some public transit options. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

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 Tenerife or Cadiz a more walkable city?

Cadiz is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Cadiz is very walkable. 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.

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Cadiz or Tenerife?

How long in Tenerife or Cadiz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tenerife or Cadiz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tenerife than Cadiz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tenerife, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cadiz.

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

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

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

One day in Tenerife or Cadiz?

In Tenerife, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this volcanic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

The port city of Cadiz offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Tenerife or Cadiz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tenerife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cadiz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port 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 Cadiz, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Tenerife or Cadiz?

Tenerife is a fun place to experience. In Tenerife, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Cadiz 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.

A week in Tenerife or Cadiz?

In Tenerife, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Cadiz is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tenerife and Cadiz, we can see that Cadiz is more expensive. And not only is Tenerife much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tenerife would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tenerife 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 Tenerife.

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

When is the best time to visit Tenerife 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 Tenerife or Cadiz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tenerife as well as Cadiz. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cadiz for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Tenerife is around the same temperature as Cadiz in the summer. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Cadiz fluctuates around 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 Tenerife this time of the year. In the summer, Tenerife often gets less sunshine than Cadiz. Tenerife gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cadiz receives 356 hours of full sun.

Tenerife usually gets more rain in July than Cadiz. Tenerife gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 0 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Cadiz in the Autumn?

Both Cadiz and Tenerife are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tenerife for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cadiz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tenerife is around the same temperature as Cadiz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tenerife in October average around 22°C (72°F), and Cadiz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. Tenerife usually receives less sunshine than Cadiz during autumn. Tenerife gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Cadiz receives 235 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Cadiz. Tenerife gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tenerife or Cadiz in the Winter?

Both Cadiz and Tenerife during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tenerife in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cadiz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Tenerife is generally a little warmer than Cadiz. Daily temperatures in Tenerife average around 17°C (63°F), and Cadiz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Tenerife often gets more sunshine than Cadiz. Tenerife gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cadiz receives 174 hours of full sun.

Tenerife usually gets less rain in January than Cadiz. Tenerife gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Cadiz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tenerife and Cadiz. Most visitors come to Tenerife for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cadiz because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Tenerife is around the same temperature as Cadiz in the spring. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 18°C (64°F) in April, and Cadiz fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In Tenerife, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tenerife usually receives less sunshine than Cadiz during spring. Tenerife gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Cadiz receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Cadiz. Tenerife gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cadiz and Tenerife