A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Caen vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Caen or Barcelona?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Caen and Barcelona. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Caen

Caen is a historic, park-filled, and important city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums. See Caen travel costs.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a high energy, youthful, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Barcelona is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Barcelona travel costs.

Caen and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Caen or Barcelona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona than Caen, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Barcelona is more touristy than Caen and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also home to Basilica Sagrada Familia. Caen is popular for its role in World War II and its memorials and historical buildings.

How is Caen different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Caen or Barcelona?

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Caen or Barcelona.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Caen. There are many monuments around town commemorating the city's long history. You'll want to see Château de Caen, Pegasus Bridge, Mémorial de Caen, Musée de Normandie, and Musée des beaux-arts de Caen.

Barcelona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Caen or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Caen and Barcelona.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Caen. There's a market that's at its best on Sundays where you'll find fresh produce and other local ingredients. There are also Michelin starred restaurants, seafood restaurants, and other traditional dishes. Head to the Vaugueux Quarter for traditional dishes.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is renowned for nightlife. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Barcelona is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Caen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene stays active thanks to the 30,000 students living in town. Head to the Rue Ecuyère for a pub crawl or hit up any of the other bars around town.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is renowned for live music. However, Caen is not a live music destination.

Barcelona is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Caen is not a live music destination.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a good destination for its beaches. However, Caen is not a beach destination.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Caen is not a beach destination.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Caen does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Caen or Barcelona?

Barcelona is renowned for shopping. However, Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Barcelona. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Caen or Barcelona More Beautiful?

Barcelona is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Caen is not a destination known for its beauty.

Barcelona is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city offers many nice viewpoints that look down on the skyline from the surrounding hills. There are also nice parks and interesting architecture.

Caen is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for Families?

Both Caen and Barcelona are good family-friendly destinations.

Caen is a family-friendly city. There are museums, parks, monasteries, and castles that kids and adults alike with enjoy visiting.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Barcelona. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Caen and Barcelona both good destinations for a couple.

Caen is a nice destination for couples. Couples that are fascinated by history will enjoy a visit to this town in Normandy. There are also abbeys, castles and parks.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Caen. You'll find more apartments and bed and breakfasts than hostels in town, but backpackers still make their way here.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Caen is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a very popular place to visit for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Caen is not popular with students.

Is Caen or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Caen and Barcelona.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Caen. There are buses and trams that travel throughout the city.

Public transit in Barcelona can get you to some places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Caen or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Caen is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Caen is somewhat walkable. The city center is best explored on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Caen Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Caen?

How long in Caen or Barcelona?

Both Caen and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Caen. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Caen, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Caen 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 Barcelona.

One day in Caen or Barcelona?

You'll find food and museums around the city of Caen. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Caen or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Caen. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Caen or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the important city of Caen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Barcelona is a high energy big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Caen or Barcelona?

Caen is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a historic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Caen or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Caen. When comparing the sizes of Caen and Barcelona, 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 Caen or Barcelona?

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 Caen or Barcelona in the Summer?

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

Caen is cooler than Barcelona in the summer. The daily temperature in Caen averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Caen this time of the year. In the summer, Caen often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Caen gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Caen usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Caen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Caen or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Caen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Caen because of the city's sights and attractions. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In the autumn, Caen is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Caen in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Barcelona averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Caen usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Caen gets 128 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Caen usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Caen gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Caen or Barcelona in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Caen in the winter. In January, Caen is generally much colder than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Caen average around 5°C (41°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Caen often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Caen gets 70 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Caen usually gets more rain in January than Barcelona. Caen gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Caen or Barcelona in the Spring?

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

Caen is cooler than Barcelona in the spring. The daily temperature in Caen averages around 9°C (49°F) in April, and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. Caen usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Caen gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Caen usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Caen gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Caen