A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Palermo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Arachova or Palermo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Palermo, 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.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Arachova and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Arachova or Palermo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palermo than Arachova, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palermo is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Arachova is more popular for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Arachova is more touristy than Palermo and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral.

How is Arachova different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Palermo Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Palermo

Arachova is a town with good options for snow skiing. However, Palermo is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Palermo is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Palermo

Both Arachova and Palermo have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Palermo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Arachova or Palermo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Palermo

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Palermo can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Palermo has a huge number of terrific 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 Arachova or Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Palermo

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Palermo.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Many people head to Palermo for the nightlife scene. 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.


Is Arachova or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arachova
Palermo

Palermo is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arachova or Palermo Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Palermo

Palermo is well known for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

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

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Palermo Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Palermo

Arachova is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.


Is Arachova or Palermo Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Palermo

Arachova is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Arachova is a popular spot for hiking. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Palermo?

Arachova
Palermo

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

Palermo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Arachova or Palermo Better for Families?

Arachova
Palermo

Arachova and Palermo are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palermo is very family-friendly. 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 Arachova or Palermo Better for Couples?

Arachova
Palermo

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

Arachova is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

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 Arachova or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Palermo

Palermo is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Arachova or Palermo Better for Students?

Arachova
Palermo

Palermo is a nice place to visit for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Palermo is popular with students. 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.


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

Arachova
Palermo

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

Arachova has a few public transit options. There are some public buses in the area.

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 Arachova or Palermo a more walkable city?

Arachova
Palermo

Palermo is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Palermo?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Arachova or Palermo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Palermo 1-3

One day in Arachova or Palermo?

In Arachova, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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 Arachova or Palermo?

In Arachova, you'll find museums and skiing. 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Palermo?

Arachova is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Arachova or Palermo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Arachova. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Palermo or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Palermo is €92. 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 Arachova and Palermo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Palermo 56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Palermo 112
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Palermo

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Palermo? 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 Arachova


Hotels in Palermo


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: Palermo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Palermo 5.64

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Palermo

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Palermo:


  • Bus to Monreale
    3.00
  • Bus From Airport
    6.00
  • 90 Minute Bus Pass
    1.30
  • Short Taxi Ride
    4.35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palermo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palermo:

  • Airport Transfer Palermo: $59
  • From Bus Transfer to/from Trapani City Center: $10
  • Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa to Palermo airport, private transfer: $44
  • Grand Hotel Wagner to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $44
  • Palermo Airport (PMO) Departure Transfer (Palermo Hotels or address to Airport): $156
  • Palermo Airport to Palermo city or vice versa, private transfer service: $41
  • Palermo Private Transfer from or to Palermo Airport in Sicily : $137
  • Palermo airport transfer to Grand Hotel et des Palmes: $42
  • 1-Way Bus Transfer to/from Misilmeri: $2.89
  • 1-Way Private Transfer from the Airport: $62
  • Bus Transfer to/from Airport and City Center: $6.42
  • Private Golf Club Class w/ Transfer, Ticket, & Food: $176

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Palermo?

Prices for flights to both Palermo and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Palermo 29

Typical Food Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of dining costs in Palermo are as follows:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    32
  • Fast Food Lunch
    5.32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palermo

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

  • Street Food Tour: $42
  • Street Food Tour: $65
  • Explore Palermo's with a Food Tour & Pizza Making Class: $68
  • Small Group Night Street Food Tour: $68
  • Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class with Dinner and Wine: $74
  • Palermo Traditional Food Tour: $74
  • Palermo's Delight: Unleash the Secrets of Pizza and Gelato Making: $75
  • Night Street Food Tour of Palermo : $75
  • Secret Food Tours Palermo: $85
  • Street Food Tour in Ballarò and Vucciria Markets: $86
  • Walking Street Food Tour with the Chef: $91
  • Sicilian Cooking Class: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Palermo 17

Typical Entertainment Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Palermo are as follows:


  • Capuchin Catacombs (for 2)
    6.00
  • Castello della Zisa Entrance (for Two)
    12
  • Theater Tickets (for Two)
    49

Tours and Activities in Palermo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palermo are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • sensorial experience of nature and ecology: $8.56
  • Teatro Massimo Opera House Guided Tour: $11
  • Entrance ticket to the Radici Piccolo Museo Della Natura: $11
  • Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour 24-hour Ticket: $21
  • Fast And Furious Bike Tour in Palermo: $27
  • Palermo storie e segreti: tour tra arte misteri e leggende: $31
  • Panoramic Trip to Mondello by CruiserCar: $32
  • Palermo di sera: tour del centro storico: $32
  • Walking Tour of Historic Markets and Monuments: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Palermo 11

Typical Alcohol Prices in Palermo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Palermo:


  • Beer
    2.56
  • Bottle of Quality Wine
    11

Sample the Local Flavors in Palermo

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

  • Pub Crawl Palermo: $16
  • Wine Tasting with Snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $41
  • Natural Local Wine Tasting & Sicilian Tapas: $49
  • Natural Wine Tasting with snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $53
  • Eating Palermo Food & Wine Tour: $82
  • 2-Hour Sicilian Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour: $128
  • From Erice and Marsala Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Wine Tasting for Small Groups in the Palermo Countryside: $196


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Palermo, we can see that Arachova 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 Arachova would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arachova 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 Arachova Expensive? and Is Palermo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Palermo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Palermo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Palermo. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Palermo. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives more rain than Palermo. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Palermo 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Palermo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Palermo. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, many visitors come to Palermo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Palermo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, 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 Arachova this time of the year. In the autumn, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Palermo. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Palermo 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Palermo in the Winter?

Both Palermo and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Arachova is cooler than Palermo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Palermo averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Palermo. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Palermo 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Palermo in the Spring?

Both Palermo and Arachova during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Palermo. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the spring, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Palermo. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Palermo 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Palermo and Arachova

Arachova Palermo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (58°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)