A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Positano for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bucharest or Positano?

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 Bucharest and Positano. 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a undiscovered, cultural, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and food.

Bucharest and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Positano. Although Bucharest and Positano are both popular with visitors, Positano has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Positano is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bucharest is known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities. Positano is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also home to The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Bucharest is popular for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bucharest or Positano?

Bucharest is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bucharest or Positano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Positano is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Positano, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is renowned for its resorts. However, Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Positano for its luxury resorts. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a Mediterranean village with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Positano has a few snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Beaches?

Positano is a good destination for the beache. However, Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Positano offers a nice beach destination. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Positano is one of the most recognized in the world. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Positano?

Positano is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Positano is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Families?

Positano is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Positano. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Couples?

Positano is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Positano is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest and Positano are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Bucharest or Positano Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bucharest is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its public transit.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you to most places easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Positano has a few public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Bucharest or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Positano on foot is easy. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Positano?

Both Bucharest and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Bucharest. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Positano than Bucharest 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 Positano.

One day in Bucharest or Positano?

The city of Bucharest offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Positano?

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

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this Mediterranean village has to offer. This Mediterranean village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Positano?

Bucharest is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Mediterranean village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Mediterranean village has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Positano?

Bucharest is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Positano?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 480 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Positano, 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 Bucharest or Positano?

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 Bucharest or Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In the summer, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Positano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bucharest in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Positano averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Positano, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Positano. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Positano. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Positano. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bucharest is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 13°C (55°F), and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Positano during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Positano. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Positano in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Positano. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bucharest. Bucharest is much colder than Positano in the winter. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around -1°C (29°F) in January, and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Positano. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Positano. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bucharest in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Positano averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Positano during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Positano. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Positano and Bucharest