A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Bergamo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Catania or Bergamo?

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 Catania and Bergamo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a historic, lively, and youthful port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a under-rated, historical, and fascinating city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Catania and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Bergamo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Catania than Bergamo. Catania is bigger than Bergamo, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Catania is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Bergamo is more popular for its impressive beauty. Catania is more touristy than Bergamo and is known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. Also, Catania is famous for Mount Etna. Bergamo is well known for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Catania different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Catania or Bergamo?

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Catania and Bergamo.

Catania offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergamo. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.

Is the Food Better in Catania or Bergamo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Catania is an amazing port city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Catania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

Bergamo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Catania is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Catania has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

Catania is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Catania and Bergamo are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

Many people head to Catania to see the old town. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Bergamo has an old town worth visiting. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for Hiking?

Catania is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergamo is not a hiking destination.

Catania is a popular spot for hiking. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Bergamo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Bergamo?

Both Catania and Bergamo are notable shopping destinations.

Catania offers some nice shopping areas. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Bergamo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for Families?

Catania is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Catania is a very kid-friendly port city. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Both Catania and Bergamo are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Catania makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Bergamo is a good port city for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Catania is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Bergamo is a good port city to visit for backpackers. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for Students?

Catania is notable for students. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Catania is a great port city to visit as a student. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Plenty of students visit Bergamo. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

Is Catania or Bergamo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Catania is notable for its public transit. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Catania has some very good public transit options. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

Bergamo has some public transit options. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

Is Catania or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Catania and Bergamo both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

Bergamo is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Bergamo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Catania?

How long in Catania or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Catania and Bergamo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bergamo than in Catania. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Catania, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Catania than Bergamo 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 Catania.

One day in Catania or Bergamo?

In Catania, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bergamo, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Catania or Bergamo?

In Catania, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Catania has to offer.

In Bergamo, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bergamo has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Bergamo?

Catania is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bergamo is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Catania or Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Catania. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Catania. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergamo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bergamo. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Catania or Bergamo?

Catania has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bergamo. When comparing the sizes of Catania and Bergamo, 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 Catania or Bergamo?

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 Catania or Bergamo in the Summer?

Both Bergamo and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bergamo for the family-friendly experiences.

Catania is around the same temperature as Bergamo in the summer. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bergamo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Bergamo in the Autumn?

Both Bergamo and Catania during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bergamo in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Catania is a little warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Catania in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Bergamo averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Catania often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 137 hours of full sun.

Bergamo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually gets more rain in October than Bergamo. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Bergamo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Bergamo. Many visitors come to Catania in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bergamo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bergamo can be very cold during winter. In January, Catania is generally much warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 10°C (51°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Catania usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during winter. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Catania usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bergamo. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Bergamo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Catania as well as Bergamo. Most visitors come to Catania for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bergamo because of the natural beauty.

Catania is a little warmer than Bergamo in the spring. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In the spring, Catania often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in April than Bergamo. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Catania