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

Should you visit Barcelona or Naples?

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 Naples 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 laid-back, historic, and cultural 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.

Naples

Naples is a historic, authentic, and gritty city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Barcelona or Naples?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Naples. Barcelona is bigger than Naples, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is better known for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Naples is more popular for its food. Barcelona is more touristy than Naples 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. Naples is well known for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

How is Barcelona different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Barcelona and Naples have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Barcelona. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

Is the Food Better in Barcelona or Naples? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Naples is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Naples have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Barcelona or Naples Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Barcelona just to party. 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.

Many people head to Naples for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Is Barcelona or Naples Better for Music?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a live music destination.

Is Barcelona or Naples Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

Barcelona has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Barcelona or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Both Barcelona and Naples have high quality historic old towns worth visiting.

Barcelona is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Naples?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Barcelona or Naples Better for Families?

Both Barcelona and Naples 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.

Naples is a family-friendly city. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Barcelona or Naples Better for Couples?

Naples is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Naples is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Barcelona or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Naples is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Barcelona or Naples Better for Students?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for students. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. 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.

It's common for students to visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

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

Both Barcelona and Naples offer high quality public transit options.

Visitors to Barcelona can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

The public transit in Naples can get you around easily. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Is Barcelona or Naples a more walkable city?

Naples is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Naples is very walkable. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Barcelona Worth Visiting? and Is Naples Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Naples or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Naples?

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

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

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

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

One day in Barcelona or Naples?

Barcelona is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Barcelona or Naples?

Barcelona is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic big city of Naples. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Barcelona or Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Naples. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Barcelona or Naples?

Barcelona is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Naples is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Naples?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona and Naples, 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 Barcelona or Naples?

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 Naples in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Naples. Most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Naples because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Naples. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 23°C (73°F), and Naples fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Naples this time of the year. In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. Barcelona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Naples during summer. Barcelona gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Naples. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Barcelona or Naples in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Naples. The autumn months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Naples this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Naples. Barcelona gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Naples. Barcelona usually gets less rain in October than Naples. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Barcelona or Naples in the Winter?

Both Naples and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Barcelona is around the same temperature as Naples. Typically, the winter temperatures in Barcelona in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Naples averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Barcelona usually receives more sunshine than Naples during winter. Barcelona gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Naples. In January, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Naples. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Barcelona or Naples in the Spring?

Both Naples and Barcelona during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Naples in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Naples. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 13°C (55°F), and Naples fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. In the spring, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Naples. Barcelona gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in April than Naples. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Naples and Barcelona