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

Should you visit Barcelona or Imperia?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Barcelona and Imperia can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a cultural, friendly, and high energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a authentic, charming, and undiscovered town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Barcelona or Imperia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Barcelona than Imperia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Barcelona is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Imperia is well known for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Barcelona different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Barcelona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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 Barcelona or Imperia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona
Imperia

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

Dining out in Barcelona is an experience not to be missed. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

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 Barcelona or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona is a world class party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

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 Barcelona or Imperia Better for Music?

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Imperia is not a live music destination.

In Barcelona you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Imperia is not a live music destination.


Is Barcelona or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona is a popular place for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Barcelona is a good option for a beach vacation. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Barcelona or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Imperia?

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Barcelona is a world class destination for shoppers. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.


Is Barcelona or Imperia Better for Families?

Barcelona
Imperia

Both Barcelona and Imperia are notable to visit with kids.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

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

Is Barcelona or Imperia Better for Couples?

Barcelona
Imperia

Both Barcelona and Imperia are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Barcelona is a nice destination for couples. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Imperia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Barcelona or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

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 Barcelona or Imperia Better for Students?

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona is a must-visit destination for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Barcelona
Imperia

Barcelona 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 Barcelona can get you to most places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

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

Is Barcelona or Imperia a more walkable city?

Barcelona
Imperia

Imperia is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.


Should I spend more time in Imperia or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Barcelona or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Barcelona 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 Barcelona, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona 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 Barcelona.


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

One day in Barcelona or Imperia?

Because Barcelona 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Imperia. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Imperia has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Barcelona or Imperia?

Because Barcelona 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Imperia. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Barcelona or Imperia?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered town of Imperia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Barcelona or Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. Because Barcelona 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.

Imperia is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Barcelona?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Barcelona is €156, 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 Barcelona and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Barcelona 96
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Barcelona 192
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Barcelona and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Barcelona 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 Barcelona


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: Barcelona Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Barcelona 19
    Imperia 36
Typical Local Transportation prices in Barcelona

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Barcelona are as follows:


  • 10 Trip Metro Ticket
    7.80
  • Airport Bus
    5.00
  • Metro
    2.10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Barcelona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Barcelona:

  • Roca Village Shopping Mall Transfers: $13
  • One-Way Shared Transfer to/from Airport and City: $14
  • Transfer departure Shuttle Barcelona Port to Barcelona Airport: $15
  • Transfer arrival Shuttle Barcelona Airport to Barcelona Port: $15
  • Transfer departure Shuttle Barcelona City to Barcelona Port: $15
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer (Barcelona Airport to/from Barcelona Hotels): $19
  • Transfer arrival Shuttle Barcelona Airport to Pineda de Mar: $23
  • Airport Transfers : $23
  • Barcelona Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) Private Transfer: $25
  • Transfer arrival Shuttle Barcelona Airport to La Pineda: $27
  • Barcelona Private Transfers from Barcelona City Centre to Bcn Cruise Terminal: $28
  • Taxi - Cab - Private transfer from Barcelona City Centre to Barcelona airport: $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Barcelona or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Barcelona 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
    Barcelona 33
    Imperia 35
Typical Food prices in Barcelona

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


  • Hot Cocoa & Churro
    4.15
  • Sandwich
    1.70
  • Baguette & Horchata
    3.80
  • Tapas on the beach
    8.28
  • Gelatto
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Barcelona

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

  • Barcelona Street Food Tour with Local Market & City Center Visit: $21
  • Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona with Set Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Walking Tour + Flamenco + Tapas Dinner (choose options): $27
  • La Barceloneta: Tapas Food Tour: $38
  • Flamenco Casa Sors & Guitar Museum with Dinner or Drink: $38
  • La Barceloneta Tapas Food Tour: $38
  • Traveling Spoon Seafood Paella and Sangria Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Paella Cooking Experience & Boqueria Market Tour: $59
  • Drunken Tapas Food Tour with Dinner in Barcelona: $64
  • Private Evening Cruise with Dinner and Drinks: $69
  • Interactive Spanish Cooking Experience in Barcelona: $71
  • Flamenco Show with Dinner at Tablao de Carmen: $73

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Barcelona 33
    Imperia 13
Typical Entertainment prices in Barcelona

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


  • Picasso Walking Tour and Museum Pass
    42
  • Souvenir Gaudi Book
    8.55
  • Admission to Museo Picasso
    6.00

Tours and Activities in Barcelona

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

  • Self-Guided Tours 150+ Captivating Audio Stories: $2.15
  • Sagrada Familia: History&Legends Comedy Tour: $2.15
  • History & Legends Comedy Tour: Barcelona El Born: $2.15
  • City Walking Tour in Barcelona: $2.69
  • History & Legends Comedy Tour: Barcelona Gothic Quarter: $2.96
  • Barcelona Free Tour: Gaudi Highlights and La Sagrada Famila: $3.23
  • Escape Game and Tour: $3.23
  • Alternative Free Tour of the Raval: $3.23
  • Barcelona Gothic Quarter: History&Legends Comedy Tour: $3.27
  • Self-Guided Tours 150+ Captivating Audio Stories: $3.27
  • Sagrada Familia Comedy Tour: $3.27
  • Free Tour Sant Cugat History and Legends: $3.27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Barcelona 17
    Imperia 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Barcelona

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Barcelona:

  • Night Pub Crawl Tour in Barcelona: $11
  • Estrella Damm Brewery Guided Tour with Tasting: $13
  • Estrella Damm Brewery in El Prat de Llobregat tour with Tasting: $13
  • Pub Crawl Barcelona: $15
  • Pub Crawl Tour with VIP Entry and Welcome Shots: $16
  • Barcelona:Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $16
  • Barcelona:Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $16
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Tour with Tasting: $19
  • Estrella Damm Old Brewery Barcelona Guided Tour with Beer Tasting: $20
  • Pub Crawl Barcelona by EVOLVE The BEST night experience: $22
  • Original Pub Crawl: $22
  • Nightlife Tour - Barcelona Bar Crawl with Flamingos: $23


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Barcelona and Imperia, we can see that Barcelona 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Imperia.

Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Imperia?

Barcelona is bigger, and its population is about 40.1 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the population of Barcelona vs. 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 and the activities that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Barcelona or Imperia?

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 Barcelona or Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 23°C (73°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Imperia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. Barcelona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during summer. Barcelona gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Barcelona usually receives more rain than Imperia. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Barcelona 23°C (73°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Barcelona or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Barcelona during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Barcelona is around the same temperature as Imperia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Barcelona gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Imperia. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Barcelona 17°C (63°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Barcelona or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Imperia. Most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Imperia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Barcelona is cooler than Imperia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Barcelona in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Imperia averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Barcelona usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during winter. Barcelona gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Imperia. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Barcelona 9°C (48°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Barcelona or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Imperia. The spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

In April, Barcelona is generally cooler than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 13°C (55°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In the spring, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Barcelona gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in April than Imperia. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Barcelona 13°C (55°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Barcelona

Barcelona Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 20°C (67°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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Barcelona vs. Imperia Travel Comparison

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