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

Should you visit Arachova or Pompeii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Pompeii, 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. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a iconic, one-of-a-kind, and ancient archeological site. It's also known for museums.

Arachova and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Arachova or Pompeii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arachova than Pompeii, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arachova is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Pompeii is more popular for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Arachova and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Arachova is well known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Also, Arachova is famous for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort.

How is Arachova different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Pompeii Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Pompeii

Arachova is very good for skiing and snowboarding. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Pompeii

Pompeii is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Pompeii that are not to be missed. 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.

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 Pompeii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Pompeii

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Arachova has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

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 Arachova or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Pompeii

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Arachova has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

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 Arachova or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Pompeii

Arachova 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 Arachova. 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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is Arachova or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Pompeii

Arachova 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 Arachova. 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Pompeii?

Arachova
Pompeii

Arachova is very good for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Arachova has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

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.


Is Arachova or Pompeii Better for Families?

Arachova
Pompeii

Arachova and Pompeii are both excellent 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, Pompeii is very family-friendly. 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 Arachova or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Arachova
Pompeii

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

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

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 Arachova or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Pompeii

Pompeii 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 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.

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 Pompeii Better for Students?

Arachova
Pompeii

Pompeii is a nice place to visit for students. However, Arachova 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Pompeii

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

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 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 Arachova or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Arachova
Pompeii

Pompeii is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of 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.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Arachova or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Arachova than Pompeii 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 Pompeii.

Families should spend more time in Arachova than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii.


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

One day in Arachova or Pompeii?

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 archeological site of Pompeii offers museums. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this archeological site makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pompeii, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archeological site 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pompeii 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 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 Arachova and Pompeii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Pompeii 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Pompeii 140
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Pompeii

Looking for a hotel in Arachova 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 Arachova


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.
    Arachova 51
    Pompeii 54

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 Arachova or Pompeii?

Prices for flights to both Pompeii 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
    Pompeii 35

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.
    Arachova 28
    Pompeii 77

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
  • Entrance ticket to the Valle dell'Orso Water Park: $33
  • Pompeii for kids or adults skip the line small group walking tour 2 hours: $33
  • Pompeii Skip the Line ticket + Audioguide: $35
  • Pompeii Archeological Site Fast Track Entry Ticket : $36
  • Pompeii tour with archaeologist: $38
  • Pompeii Tour with experienced guide: $38
  • guided tour of the archaeological excavations of Pompeii: $38
  • Semi-Private Tour of Pompeii Ruins: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Pompeii 7.31

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 Arachova and Pompeii, we can see that Pompeii is more expensive. And not only is Arachova much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Arachova would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Arachova 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 Arachova.

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



When is the best time to visit Arachova 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 Arachova or Pompeii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Pompeii. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), 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 Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Pompeii. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Pompeii 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Arachova because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

Arachova is a little warmer than Pompeii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during autumn. Arachova gets 206 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, Arachova usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Pompeii 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pompeii for the museums.

In the winter, Arachova is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Pompeii averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Arachova gets 143 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. Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Pompeii 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Pompeii. Many travelers come to Arachova for the small town charm.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Pompeii 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Arachova

Arachova Pompeii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)