A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Almeria vs. Pompeii for Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Almeria or Pompeii?

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 Almeria and Pompeii. 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.

Almeria

Almeria is a natural, breathtaking, and pristine region. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a iconic, one-of-a-kind, and ancient archeological site. Other popular activities here include museums.

Almeria and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Almeria or Pompeii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Almeria. Although Almeria and Pompeii are popular destinations, Almeria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Almeria is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Pompeii is more touristy than Almeria and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Almeria is famous for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. It is also well known for The Alcazaba.

How is Almeria different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Almeria or Pompeii?

Almeria
Pompeii

Pompeii is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Pompeii on the map. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Almeria or Pompeii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Almeria
Pompeii

Almeria is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Almeria has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Pompeii

Almeria is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Almeria. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Pompeii

Almeria is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Almeria is a perfect choice. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.


Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Pompeii

Almeria is renowned for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Almeria is a very popular vacation destination. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Pompeii

Almeria is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Pompeii

Almeria is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Pompeii?

Almeria
Pompeii

Pompeii is not so good for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Families?

Almeria
Pompeii

Both Almeria and Pompeii are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Almeria is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Pompeii is a very family-friendly destination. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Almeria
Pompeii

Almeria is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Almeria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.


Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria
Pompeii

Almeria is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Almeria. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Students?

Almeria
Pompeii

Pompeii is a good destination for students. However, Almeria is not popular with students.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Almeria is not popular with students.

Is Almeria or Pompeii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Almeria
Pompeii

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Almeria and Pompeii.

You'll find some public transit in Almeria, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

While Pompeii offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.


Is Almeria or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Almeria
Pompeii

Pompeii is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

Getting around Pompeii on foot is easy. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Almeria Worth Visiting? and Is Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Almeria or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Almeria than Pompeii because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Almeria, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pompeii.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria than Pompeii 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 Almeria.


  • How many days in Almeria or Pompeii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Pompeii 1-2

One day in Almeria or Pompeii?

In Almeria, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This region offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Almeria or Pompeii?

In Almeria, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Almeria has to offer.

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer.


Five days in Almeria or Pompeii?

Almeria is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Pompeii 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.

A week in Almeria or Pompeii?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pompeii. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pompeii or Almeria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Almeria is €99, while the average daily cost in Pompeii is €151. 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 Almeria and Pompeii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Pompeii 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Pompeii 140
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Pompeii

Looking for a hotel in Almeria or Pompeii? 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 Almeria


Hotels in Pompeii


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: Pompeii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Pompeii 54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $125
  • Tabernas: transfer + ticket Fort Bravo or Minihollywood: $62
  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $66
  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pompeii

Also for Pompeii, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Organic Wine Tasting & Lunch on Vesuvius with Transfer from Pompeii: $132
  • Private transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Private transfer from Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Small Group Pompeii Wine Tasting with Lunch & Transfer Included : $97
  • Transfer Private from Ravello to Naples: $239
  • Transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Transfer from Pompeii to Naples or viceversa: $66
  • Transfers Ravello - Naples: $207
  • Transfers from Naples to Sorrento Positano Amalfi Ravello Maiori: $97

Is it cheaper to fly into Almeria or Pompeii?

Prices for flights to both Pompeii and Almeria 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
    Almeria 40
    Pompeii 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Almeria

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

  • Spanish Paella Private Online Cooking Class: $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pompeii

For Pompeii, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traditional Neapolitan Dinner in Pompei - Villa Franca - Family Restourant: $38
  • Cooking Class with Italian Mamma in Pompeii: $65
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Pompei: $93
  • Pompei tour with a 2000 years roman dinner: $112
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Pompei: $142
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Pompei: $158
  • Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Pompei: $158
  • Private market tour and cooking class with lunch or dinner in Pompei: $206
  • guided tour of the ruins and cooking class fresh pasta : $272
  • Cooking class: Pasta Experience in Pompei, Italy: $300

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Pompeii 77

Tours and Activities in Almeria

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

  • Almería: Cathedral Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Almería: Cathedral and Convent of the Puras Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour: $16
  • Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour: $11
  • Almeria : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $49
  • Almeria like a Local: Customized Private Tour : $52
  • Alcazaba Guided Tour: $16
  • Convent of the Puras Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • History and Hidden Corners Essential Walking Tour: $14
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Spanish Civil War Shelters Ticket and Official Tour: $11
  • Andalusia: Almeria Cathedral Entry with Guided Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Pompeii

For Pompeii, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • The Rise, Fall, and Rediscovery of A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Pompeii Express 1 hour Guided Tour: $21
  • Pompeii Ticket with Optional Guided Tour: $31
  • PompeiI VIP: Guided Tour with your Archaeologist in a Small Group : $32
  • Pompeii for kids or adults skip the line small group walking tour 2 hours: $33
  • Entrance ticket to the Valle dell'Orso Water Park: $33
  • Pompeii Skip the Line ticket + Audioguide: $35
  • Pompeii Archeological Site Fast Track Entry Ticket : $36
  • Pompeii Tour with experienced guide: $38
  • Pompeii tour with archaeologist: $38
  • guided tour of the archaeological excavations of Pompeii: $38
  • Semi-Private Tour of Pompeii Ruins: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Almeria 4.29
    Pompeii 7.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

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

  • Almería Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting: $24
  • Almería Wine tour and tasting in English in Bio Winery: $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Pompeii

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

  • Wine Tasting Tour on the Slopes of Vesuvius: $46
  • Wine Tasting on Mt. Vesuvius: $55
  • Seafood Lunch with Wine Tasting & Tour on a golf cart: $87
  • Guided Tour of Pompeii Ruins with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $98
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting in Pompeii with a Local: $124
  • Pompeii Guided Tour & Horse Riding on Vesuvius with Wine Tasting: $191
  • Pompeii, Herculaneum and scenic drive of the Mt. Vesuvius with wine tasting: $207


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

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



When is the best time to visit Almeria or Pompeii?

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 Almeria or Pompeii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Pompeii. Many travelers come to Almeria for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Pompeii in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Almeria is around the same temperature as Pompeii in the summer. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Pompeii fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the summer, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in July than Pompeii. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Pompeii 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Almeria in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Almeria is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Almeria in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Pompeii averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during autumn. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. In October, Almeria usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Pompeii 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Almeria during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Almeria for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the museums.

In January, Almeria is generally much warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 13°C (55°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Almeria usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Pompeii 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Pompeii. The spring months attract visitors to Almeria because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Almeria is a little warmer than Pompeii in the spring. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during spring. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Almeria usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Almeria gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Pompeii 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Almeria

Almeria Pompeii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)