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

Should you visit Athens or Palermo?

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 Palermo. 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a fun, colorful, and diverse city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Palermo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Palermo are roughly the same size, Athens has more sights and attractions for tourists. Athens is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Palermo attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Athens is more touristy than Palermo 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. Palermo is famous for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palermo 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 Palermo?

Athens is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Athens or Palermo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. 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 Athens or Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Athens is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Athens is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Palermo has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Athens or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palermo. 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.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Palermo Better for Beaches?

Palermo is great for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Palermo for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Palermo Better for its Old Town?

Athens is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Palermo?

Palermo is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Palermo. 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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Palermo Better for Families?

Both Athens and Palermo are very good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Palermo is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Athens or Palermo Better for Couples?

Athens and Palermo 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.

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 Athens or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is very popular for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Is Athens or Palermo Better for Students?

Athens is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. 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.

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

Athens is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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 Athens or Palermo a more walkable city?

Athens and Palermo are very good when it comes to 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Athens?

How long in Athens or Palermo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Palermo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Palermo. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-3 days is enough time in Palermo.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Palermo. 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 Palermo. 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 Palermo 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.

One day in Athens or Palermo?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Palermo. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Palermo?

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.

Palermo 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 Palermo?

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 Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Palermo?

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 nightlife and food when visiting the diverse destination of Palermo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Palermo, we can see that Athens 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 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 Palermo.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Palermo?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Palermo. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Palermo?

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 Palermo in the Summer?

Both Palermo and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets more rain in July than Palermo. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Palermo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Palermo. The autumn months attract visitors to Athens because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

In the autumn, Athens is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Palermo averages at about 20°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Palermo. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Palermo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Palermo. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Athens is generally cooler than Palermo. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Palermo. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Palermo in the Spring?

Both Palermo and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Palermo in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Palermo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Palermo. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palermo and Athens