A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Caltagirone vs. Novalja for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Caltagirone or Novalja?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Caltagirone and Novalja can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Caltagirone

Caltagirone is a quaint, friendly, and charming city. Caltagirone is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Caltagirone travel costs.

Novalja

Novalja is a backpacker-filled, wild, and energetic town. With stunning beauty, Novalja attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches. See Novalja travel costs.

Caltagirone and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Caltagirone or Novalja?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Caltagirone. Although Caltagirone and Novalja are both popular with visitors, Caltagirone has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Caltagirone is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Novalja is known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Novalja is more touristy than Caltagirone and is known for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd. Caltagirone is popular for its pottery and ceramic industry as well as the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase. It is also home to The Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte.

How is Caltagirone different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Caltagirone or Novalja?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Caltagirone is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Caltagirone offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many visitors come to see the famed Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, which is a 142 step staircase that connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The staircase highlights the city's ceramic and pottery industry, as every step is decorated with tiles.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Novalja. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.


Is the Food Better in Caltagirone or Novalja? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Caltagirone is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Caltagirone. There are some great local restaurants that serve seafood and other local specialties.

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

Is Caltagirone or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Novalja is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for nightlife.

Novalja is a must-see party destination. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

Caltagirone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many people visit as a day trip and the town isn't known for its nightlife scene.

Is Caltagirone or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Novalja is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, Caltagirone is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Novalja as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Caltagirone is not a resort destination.


Is Caltagirone or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Novalja is well known for the beach. However, Caltagirone is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Novalja attract visitors from all over. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Caltagirone is not a beach destination.

Is Caltagirone or Novalja Better for its Old Town?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Caltagirone is a popular place for its old town. However, Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Caltagirone to see the old town. It is known for its pottery and ceramics, which have been incorporated into many of the architectural elements around town.

Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Caltagirone or Novalja?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Caltagirone is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Caltagirone is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Pottery and ceramic shopping is a highlight of a visit to town.

Shopping in Novalja can be found for those interested. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.


Is Caltagirone or Novalja More Beautiful?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Novalja is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Novalja attracts visitors from all around. The moon-like setting is a bit surreal and stunningly beautiful. The striking blue waters contrast the landscape in a breathtaking way.

Caltagirone is a gorgeous place to visit. The architecture and setting is quite beautiful and charming with nice views from the top of the hill.

Is Caltagirone or Novalja Better for Families?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Most people don't think of either Caltagirone or Novalja as a family destination.

Caltagirone doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kids may enjoy running up and down the famous Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase. The town also hosts some fun festivals throughout the year, and if you're traveling with kids, these would be the times to visit.

For families, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.

Is Caltagirone or Novalja Better for Couples?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Both Caltagirone and Novalja are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Caltagirone is a good city for couples to visit. Pottery shopping and exploring the town make this a nice option for a day trip or overnight visit.

Novalja is a nice destination for couples. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.


Is Caltagirone or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Novalja is terrific for backpackers. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Novalja is a very popular town to visit for backpackers. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

Caltagirone is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people pass in and out of the town on a day trip or stopover, so you won't find many hostels.

Is Caltagirone or Novalja Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Caltagirone
Novalja

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Caltagirone and Novalja.

You'll find some public transit in Caltagirone, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses travel in and out of town.

While Novalja offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Caltagirone or Novalja a more walkable city?

Caltagirone
Novalja

Caltagirone and Novalja both are good when exploring on foot.

Caltagirone is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the town are steep, but many people choose to explore on foot.

Novalja is somewhat walkable. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Caltagirone Worth Visiting? and Is Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Caltagirone?

How long in Caltagirone or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Caltagirone or Novalja. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Novalja due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Caltagirone, and 2-4 days is enough time in Novalja.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Novalja than Caltagirone 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 Novalja.


  • How many days in Caltagirone or Novalja? Ideal Length of Stay
    Caltagirone 1-2 
    Novalja 2-4

One day in Caltagirone or Novalja?

In Caltagirone, you'll find museums and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the wild town of Novalja. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Caltagirone or Novalja?

In Caltagirone, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Caltagirone has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the wild destination of Novalja. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Caltagirone or Novalja?

Caltagirone is a great place to explore. 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.

The wild town of Novalja offers nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Caltagirone or Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Caltagirone. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Caltagirone. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Novalja. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Novalja or Caltagirone?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Caltagirone Prices
    Italy Prices
    Novalja Prices
    Croatia Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Caltagirone 117
    Novalja 73

The average daily cost (per person) in Caltagirone is €117, while the average daily cost in Novalja is €73. 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 Caltagirone and Novalja in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Caltagirone 59
    Novalja 32
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Caltagirone 118
    Novalja 64
Compare Hotels in Caltagirone and Novalja

Looking for a hotel in Caltagirone or Novalja? 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 Caltagirone


Hotels in Novalja


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: Caltagirone Hotel Prices and Novalja Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Caltagirone 8.57
    Novalja 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Caltagirone

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Caltagirone:

  • Airport Transfer: Palermo to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car: $106
  • Airport Transfer: Palermo to Palermo Airport PMO by Luxury Van: $118
  • CO2-Offset Departure Transfer Palermo City to Palermo Airport: $61
  • CO2-OffsetTransfer Trapani or San Vito lo Capo to Palermo Airport: $162
  • Catania Airport Transfer To Taormina : $149
  • Catania city to Siracusa Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $114
  • Cheap and luxury transfer: $114
  • Free visit with transfer to Cefalù from Palermo: $90
  • Hotel Tonnara Trabia to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $81
  • Messina Cruise Port to Catania Airport (CTA) - Departure Private Transfer: $130
  • Messina to Taormina Low Cost Transfer: $47
  • Palermo Cruise Port to Palermo hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $105

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Novalja

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Novalja:

  • Private Transfer from Crikvenica to Rijeka Airport (RJK): $130
  • Zrce, Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Caltagirone or Novalja?

Prices for flights to both Novalja and Caltagirone 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
    Caltagirone 53
    Novalja 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Caltagirone

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

  • Catania Street Food Tour: Fish Market & City Centre: $59
  • Cannoli Cooking Class in Taormina: $66
  • Master the Art of Arancino: A Hands-On Cooking Class in Ortigia: $78
  • Sicilian Street food tour: eat local in Messina : $78
  • Cook, Eat & Embrace Sicily-An Authentic Cooking Experience : $83
  • Cooking Class from Table to Tablecloths in Syracuse: $84
  • 4-course Palermitan dinner in a cottage with a garden: $86
  • Fishing in Selinunte and lunch with cooking of the catch: $87
  • Palermo: Pasta & Gelato Cooking Class in Palermo: $88
  • Half-Day Cooking Class with Lunch in Baglio Florio: $96
  • Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Catania: $102
  • Cooking class of typical dishes and lunch in Piazza Armerina: $102

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Caltagirone 5.71
    Novalja 6.09

Tours and Activities in Caltagirone

Here are a few actual costs in Caltagirone for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self-Guided Private Walking Tour in Sicily: $1.16
  • Messina Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $6.58
  • Hidden Gems Of Cefalù Exploration Game and Tour: $7.16
  • Private Quest Experience in Taormina Seeking The Vial Of Life: $9.57
  • Private Historical and Heritage Audio Tour in Palermo and Sicily: $9.57
  • Coral processing experience with visit to the museum: $11
  • Taormina: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Sicily’s Hilltop Town: $12
  • MUST23 Capaci An Antimafia Museum Experience: $14
  • Guided tour in the salt pan: $14
  • Experience of the saltworker at Trapani salt pans : $17
  • Classical Ortigia Guided Group Tour: $23
  • WalkingTour CATANIA - discovering the city of lava with a licensed guide: $24

Tours and Activities in Novalja

Here are a few actual costs in Novalja for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Adriatic Sea Diving Experience: $94

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Caltagirone 13
    Novalja 7.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Caltagirone

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

  • Catania Nightlife Pub Crawl: $16
  • Pub Crawl Palermo: $19
  • Authentic Marsala Wine Tasting Experience in a Historic Winery: $24
  • Historic winery visit with food and wine tasting in Marsala: $35
  • Etna DOC & Organic Wine tasting and tour of the 1815 historic winery: $38
  • Di Giovanna Winery Tour & 3 Wine Tasting: $41
  • Wine Tasting among the Secular Carob Trees of Mazara del Vallo: $42
  • Wine Tasting in a group with other travelers: $53
  • Wine Tasting in an Old Millstone: $54
  • Di Giovanna Winery Tour & 5 Wine Tasting: $57
  • Hidden Palermo Bike Tour with Organic Wine Tasting: $66
  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $68


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

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


Which is Bigger, Caltagirone or Novalja?

Caltagirone has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Caltagirone and Novalja, 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.