A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tenerife vs. Cagliari for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Tenerife or Cagliari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tenerife or Cagliari, 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 vibrant, adventure-filled, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a relaxed, historic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Tenerife and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tenerife or Cagliari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cagliari. Although Tenerife and Cagliari are popular destinations, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Tenerife attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Tenerife is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello.

How is Tenerife different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cagliari 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 Cagliari?

Cagliari is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

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 Cagliari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cagliari is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cagliari. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

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

Tenerife has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

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 Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Tenerife. 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.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Is Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Tenerife. 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.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Both Tenerife and Cagliari have excellent beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tenerife. 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.

The beaches at Cagliari attract visitors from all over. 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.

Is Tenerife or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

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

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Tenerife specifically for its hiking. 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.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tenerife or Cagliari?

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

Tenerife is well-known for its shopping. 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.

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 Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Families?

Tenerife is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tenerife is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Cagliari is known to be 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 Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Couples?

Tenerife and Cagliari are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Tenerife makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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 Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tenerife and Cagliari are both nice 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.

Cagliari is a good island to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Tenerife or Cagliari Better for Students?

Cagliari is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Tenerife is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Cagliari. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Tenerife is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Tenerife and Cagliari.

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 Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Tenerife or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is very walkable. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

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 Cagliari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Tenerife?

How long in Tenerife or Cagliari?

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

Families should spend more time in Tenerife than Cagliari. 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 Cagliari. 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 Cagliari than Tenerife 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 Tenerife or Cagliari?

The beautiful island of Tenerife offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

The city of Cagliari 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 Cagliari?

Tenerife is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cagliari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Tenerife or Cagliari?

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

Cagliari 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 Cagliari?

Tenerife is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tenerife has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Cagliari 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 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 Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Tenerife and Cagliari, we can see that Tenerife 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 Tenerife Expensive? and Is Cagliari Expensive?.

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

Both Cagliari and Tenerife are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tenerife for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tenerife is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tenerife in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Cagliari averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. Tenerife usually receives less sunshine than Cagliari during summer. Tenerife gets 268 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Cagliari. Tenerife gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tenerife or Cagliari in the Autumn?

Both Cagliari and Tenerife during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year.

In October, Tenerife is generally a little warmer than Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Tenerife average around 22°C (72°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Tenerife. In the autumn, Tenerife often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari. Tenerife gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun.

Tenerife usually gets less rain in October than Cagliari. Tenerife gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Cagliari in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tenerife and Cagliari. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Tenerife is much warmer than Cagliari in the winter. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Cagliari fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Tenerife usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during winter. Tenerife gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tenerife usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cagliari. Tenerife gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tenerife or Cagliari in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tenerife as well as Cagliari. Many travelers come to Tenerife for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cagliari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Tenerife is a little warmer than Cagliari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tenerife in April average around 18°C (64°F), and Cagliari averages at about 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 Tenerife this time of the year. In the spring, Tenerife often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari. Tenerife gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun.

Tenerife usually gets less rain in April than Cagliari. Tenerife gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Tenerife