A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Piazza Armerina for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Piazza Armerina, 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 outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a authentic, historic, and charming town. It's also known for food and museums.

Arachova and Piazza Armerina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Piazza Armerina attracts visitors for its museums. Arachova is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Piazza Armerina is famous for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Arachova different from Piazza Armerina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Piazza Armerina Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Arachova is a good destination for snow skiing. However, Piazza Armerina is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Piazza Armerina can be an interesting and educational experience. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Piazza Armerina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Arachova is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arachova. 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.

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Arachova or Piazza Armerina Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Arachova is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

Arachova has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.


Is Arachova or Piazza Armerina Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Arachova and Piazza Armerina both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. 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.

Piazza Armerina is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

Is Arachova or Piazza Armerina Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Arachova is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Arachova is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Arachova offers some nice shopping areas. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Arachova or Piazza Armerina Better for Families?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Arachova is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Arachova or Piazza Armerina Better for Couples?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

Arachova is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Piazza Armerina is a good town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

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

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Piazza Armerina.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Piazza Armerina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.


Is Arachova or Piazza Armerina a more walkable city?

Arachova
Piazza Armerina

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

Piazza Armerina is very walkable. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

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 Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Piazza Armerina or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Arachova than Piazza Armerina. 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 Arachova than Piazza Armerina 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 Arachova.


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

One day in Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

The bustling destination of Arachova offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Piazza Armerina offers museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Piazza Armerina?

The town of Arachova offers food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Piazza Armerina is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Piazza Armerina, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

Arachova is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina?

Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Arachova. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Piazza Armerina is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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 Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina is €93. 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 Piazza Armerina in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Piazza Armerina? 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 Piazza Armerina


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: Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

Prices for flights to both Piazza Armerina 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
    Piazza Armerina 33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

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

  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Piazza Armerina 13


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Piazza Armerina, we can see that Arachova is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina.

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Piazza Armerina?

Piazza Armerina has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Piazza Armerina, 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 Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Piazza Armerina. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Piazza Armerina in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arachova is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Piazza Armerina in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Piazza Armerina. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the autumn, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Piazza Armerina. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 189 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Piazza Armerina. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Piazza Armerina in the Winter?

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

Arachova is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Piazza Armerina during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Piazza Armerina. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Piazza Armerina in the Spring?

Both Piazza Armerina and Arachova during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm.

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

In Piazza Armerina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Piazza Armerina. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 204 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Piazza Armerina. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Piazza Armerina and Arachova

Arachova Piazza Armerina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)


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