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

Should you visit Budapest or Positano?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Budapest and Positano can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a authentic, bustling, 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Positano

Positano is a luxurious, charming, and picturesque Mediterranean village. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, food, and beaches.

Budapest and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Budapest. Although Budapest and Positano are both popular with visitors, Budapest has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Budapest is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Positano is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Positano is more touristy than Budapest and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Budapest is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Hungarian Parliament Building.

How is Budapest different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Budapest is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Positano has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Positano Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Budapest for the nightlife scene. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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 Budapest or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Budapest is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Positano is a perfect choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Budapest or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Budapest or Positano Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Positano to enjoy the beach. 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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Budapest or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano is terrific for its old town. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Positano has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is Budapest or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano is great for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Positano for the hiking trails. 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Budapest or Positano?

If you're looking to go shopping, Budapest and Positano both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Budapest is well-known for its shopping. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Budapest or Positano Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Budapest or Positano.

Budapest offers lots of family activities. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Budapest or Positano Better for Couples?

Positano is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Positano has plenty to offer. 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.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Budapest or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Budapest, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest or Positano Better for Students?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Budapest is a must-visit destination 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.

Budapest has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Budapest or Positano a more walkable city?

Budapest and Positano are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

Budapest is a very easy city to get around on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Positano?

Both Budapest 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 Budapest. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

Families should spend more time in Positano than Budapest. 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 Budapest. 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 Budapest than Positano 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 Budapest.

One day in Budapest or Positano?

Budapest is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Budapest or Positano?

Budapest 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Budapest, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Budapest or Positano?

Budapest is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Budapest, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Budapest or Positano?

Budapest is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer. This Mediterranean village offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest, 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 Budapest and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Positano?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 440 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Budapest 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 Budapest or Positano?

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 Budapest or Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Budapest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Budapest is around the same temperature as Positano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Budapest in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Positano averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Positano. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Budapest. Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Positano during summer. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Budapest usually receives more rain than Positano. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Budapest or Positano in the Autumn?

Both Positano and Budapest during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Positano because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Budapest is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 12°C (53°F), and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Positano. Budapest gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Budapest usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Positano in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Budapest and Positano. The winter months attract visitors to Budapest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

The weather in Budapest can be very cold. Budapest is much colder than Positano in the winter. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Positano during winter. Budapest gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Budapest usually receives less rain than Positano. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Budapest or Positano in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Budapest as well as Positano. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Budapest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Budapest is cooler than Positano. Typically, the spring temperatures in Budapest in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Positano averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Budapest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Positano. Budapest gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Budapest