A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alicante vs. Palermo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Alicante or Palermo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Alicante and Palermo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Alicante

Alicante is a vibrant, cultural, and colorful city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Alicante and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alicante or Palermo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo than Alicante, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palermo is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Alicante is known for its museums and historical sights. Alicante is popular for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral.

How is Alicante different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alicante or Palermo?

Alicante is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Alicante. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

Is the Food Better in Alicante or Palermo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Alicante and Palermo.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Alicante. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Palermo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Palermo is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

If you're looking for night time activities Alicante has a few options to choose from. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for Beaches?

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

Palermo is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Alicante has a beach worth visiting. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for its Old Town?

Alicante is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Alicante offers a nice historic old town area. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Alicante or Palermo?

Palermo is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Palermo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Alicante has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Alicante or Palermo.

Alicante is a very kid-friendly city. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Palermo. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for Couples?

Alicante is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Alicante is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alicante and Palermo are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Alicante is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

It's common for backpackers to visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for Students?

Alicante and Palermo are good places to visit for students.

Alicante is popular with students. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

It's common for students to visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Is Alicante or Palermo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alicante is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Alicante has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Alicante or Palermo a more walkable city?

Palermo is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Palermo is a very walkable city. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

Alicante is a somewhat walkable city. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Alicante Worth Visiting? and Is Palermo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Alicante?

How long in Alicante or Palermo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alicante and Palermo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Alicante than in Palermo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alicante, and 1-3 days is enough time in Palermo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palermo than Alicante 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 Palermo.

One day in Alicante or Palermo?

In Alicante, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Palermo offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Alicante or Palermo?

In Alicante, 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 Alicante has to offer.

Palermo 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 Palermo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Alicante or Palermo?

Alicante 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.

Palermo 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 Alicante or Palermo?

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

Palermo is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Alicante or Palermo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Alicante. When comparing the sizes of Alicante and Palermo, 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 Alicante or Palermo?

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 Alicante or Palermo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alicante and Palermo. Many travelers come to Alicante for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Palermo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Alicante is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Alicante in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Palermo averages at about 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In Alicante, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alicante usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during summer. Alicante gets 341 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Alicante or Palermo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alicante as well as Palermo. Many visitors come to Alicante in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Alicante is generally around the same temperature as Palermo. Daily temperatures in Alicante average around 20°C (68°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alicante this time of the year. In the autumn, Alicante often gets more sunshine than Palermo. Alicante gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun.

Alicante usually gets more rain in October than Palermo. Alicante gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alicante or Palermo in the Winter?

Both Palermo and Alicante are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Alicante for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Palermo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Alicante is around the same temperature as Palermo in the winter. The daily temperature in Alicante averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Palermo fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Alicante usually receives more sunshine than Palermo during winter. Alicante gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alicante usually receives less rain than Palermo. Alicante gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alicante or Palermo in the Spring?

Both Palermo and Alicante during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Alicante because of the beaches. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

In the spring, Alicante is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Alicante in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Palermo averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Alicante. In the spring, Alicante often gets more sunshine than Palermo. Alicante gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun.

Alicante usually gets less rain in April than Palermo. Alicante gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palermo and Alicante