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

Should you visit Valencia or Cagliari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia 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.

Valencia

Valencia is a architectural, friendly, and coastal coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a historic, under-rated, and laid back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valencia and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Cagliari?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Cagliari. Valencia is bigger than Cagliari, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cagliari is more popular for its beaches. Valencia is more touristy than Cagliari and is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Cagliari is well known for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches.

How is Valencia different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Valencia and Cagliari.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Valencia can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cagliari. 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 Valencia or Cagliari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Valencia has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

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

Valencia has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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 Valencia or Cagliari Better for Resorts?

Valencia is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is well known for the beache. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Valencia. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Is Valencia or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its old town. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Valencia offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (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.

Is Valencia or Cagliari Better for Hiking?

Valencia is very good for its hiking trails. However, Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Valencia. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Cagliari?

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

Valencia is well-known for its shopping. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

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 Valencia or Cagliari Better for Families?

Valencia and Cagliari are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Valencia is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cagliari. 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 Valencia or Cagliari Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Valencia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Cagliari is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Valencia or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Valencia. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

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 Valencia or Cagliari Better for Students?

Valencia is an amazing coastal city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Valencia. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Valencia and Cagliari.

You'll find some public transit in Valencia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

While Cagliari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Valencia or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Valencia and Cagliari both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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 Valencia Worth Visiting? and Is Cagliari Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Cagliari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Valencia and Cagliari. In our opinion, Valencia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Valencia than Cagliari. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Valencia, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cagliari.

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

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

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

One day in Valencia or Cagliari?

Valencia 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.

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 Valencia or Cagliari?

Valencia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal 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 Valencia, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Valencia or Cagliari?

Valencia 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.

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 Valencia or Cagliari?

Valencia 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 coastal city 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 G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Cagliari?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Valencia 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 Valencia or Cagliari?

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 Valencia or Cagliari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Cagliari. Most visitors come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Valencia is around the same temperature as Cagliari in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Cagliari fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the summer, Valencia often gets less sunshine than Cagliari. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets more rain in July than Cagliari. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Cagliari in the Autumn?

Both Cagliari and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Valencia because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, 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 the autumn, Valencia is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Cagliari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari during autumn. Valencia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valencia or Cagliari in the Winter?

Both Cagliari and Valencia during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Valencia is generally a little warmer than Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in January than Cagliari. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Cagliari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Cagliari. Many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cagliari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Valencia is a little warmer than Cagliari in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Cagliari fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valencia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari during spring. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valencia usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Valencia