A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Imperia for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Imperia?

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 Athens and Imperia. 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.

Athens

Athens is a historic, ancient, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Acropolis
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Athens or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Imperia are popular destinations, Athens has more sights and attractions for tourists. Athens is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Imperia?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Athens on the map. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


Is the Food Better in Athens or Imperia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Athens or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Athens is a world class party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Athens or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Athens can be explored in its historical center. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Imperia?

Athens
Imperia

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Imperia both offer plenty of nice spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Imperia is a great destination for shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Athens or Imperia Better for Families?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Athens is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Imperia is a family-friendly city. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Athens or Imperia Better for Couples?

Athens
Imperia

Athens and Imperia both nice destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Athens or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Athens or Imperia Better for Students?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is notable for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Imperia is not popular with students.

Is Athens or Imperia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is notable for its public transit. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Athens can get you to most places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Imperia has some public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Athens or Imperia a more walkable city?

Athens
Imperia

Athens is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Imperia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Athens?

How long in Athens or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Imperia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Imperia 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 Athens.


  • How many days in Athens or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Athens or Imperia?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Imperia. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Imperia?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Imperia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Athens or Imperia?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Imperia. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Imperia. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Athens?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €127, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. 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 Athens and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Athens and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Imperia? 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 Athens


Hotels in Imperia


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: Athens Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Imperia 36
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens

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


  • Airport Bus for Two
    6.40
  • Metro
    1.50
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

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

  • Bus Transfer to/from Argos: $14
  • One way Private Transfer Athens City Center to / from Piraeus Port: $20
  • Private Transfer from Piraeus Port and Hotels to Athens: $22
  • Athens Hotels To Piraeus Port-Hotels Luxury Transfer Services: $22
  • Private transfer between Athens hotels and Piraeus Port: $22
  • From Athens Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Rafina Port: $24
  • Athens Private Transfer: Piraeus Cruise Port to Central Athens : $24
  • Private Transfer from Athens City to Piraeus Port: $26
  • Piraeus Port: Private One-Way Transfer to Athens City Center: $26
  • Athens City to Athens Airport Easy Van and Minibus Transfer: $28
  • Athens Airport to Athens City Easy Van and Minibus Transfer: $28
  • AIRPORT TRANSFER in Athens : $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Athens 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
    Athens 37
    Imperia 35
Typical Food Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • Souvlaki
    2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $24
  • Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $42
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $46
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $51
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $52
  • Middle-eastern Cuisine Cooking Class with Meal: $52
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide and 7 Tastings: $57
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $60
  • Alternative, truly authentic food tour in secret Athens: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Class with Meal: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Classes in Athina: $64
  • Light Lunch Tasting & Cooking Demo: $67

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Athens

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.

  • Meouzo Online City Tour: $3.20
  • Self-guided First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.21
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour into Byzantine Gems: $4.60
  • A Neoclassical Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • 360 Virtual tour of Ancient Athens: $6.00
  • Herakleidon Museum of Ancient Greek Technology: Entry Ticket: $6.42
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Athens: $6.53
  • Ancient Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Ancient Agora of Athens Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The Best of Piraeus: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Greece: Tourist eSIM Data Plan: $7.18
  • Ancient Agora: Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.48

Tours and Activities in Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Imperia 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

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

  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $17
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • Premium Wine Tastings: $35
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $43
  • Athens Wine Tasting: $44
  • Old Town Athens Wine Tasting: $52
  • Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $52
  • 2 Hours Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $53
  • Best rated Acropolis Wine Tasting : $53
  • Greek food and wine tasting: $53
  • Rare Greek Wine Tasting w/Sommelier by the Acropolis: $59
  • Wine Tasting and Storytelling in a Historical Square in Athina: $60


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

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


Which is Bigger, Athens or Imperia?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Imperia, 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 Athens or Imperia?

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 Athens or Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences.

Athens is a little warmer than Imperia in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Imperia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Imperia. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Athens or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Imperia. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Athens is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Imperia. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Athens or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Imperia. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Imperia. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Athens or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Imperia because of the natural beauty.

Athens is around the same temperature as Imperia in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Imperia. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Athens

Athens Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)