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

Should you visit Catania or Imperia?

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 Imperia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a historic, lively, and youthful port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Catania and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Imperia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Imperia are both popular with visitors, Catania has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Catania is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Imperia is known for its impressive beauty. Catania is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna. Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Catania different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Catania and Imperia.

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 Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

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

Catania is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Catania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

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 Catania or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Catania is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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 Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Catania or Imperia Better for Beaches?

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

Catania is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Catania or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Catania is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Catania offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Is Catania or Imperia Better for Hiking?

Catania is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Imperia?

Both Catania and Imperia are good 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.

Imperia has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Catania or Imperia Better for Families?

Catania is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Catania is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

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

Is Catania or Imperia Better for Couples?

Both Catania and Imperia are good 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.

Imperia is a good port city for couples to visit. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Catania or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Catania is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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 Catania or Imperia Better for Students?

Catania is notable for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Catania is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Catania 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 Catania can get you to most places easily. 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.

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

Is Catania or Imperia a more walkable city?

Catania is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Catania?

How long in Catania or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Catania or Imperia to fill your time. In our opinion, Catania has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Catania than Imperia. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Catania than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 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 Catania.

One day in Catania or Imperia?

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 Imperia, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Catania or Imperia?

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 Imperia, 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 Imperia has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Imperia. 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 comparing the travel costs between Catania and Imperia, we can see that Catania is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Catania or Imperia?

Catania has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Catania and 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 along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Catania 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 Catania or Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Imperia because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Catania is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Imperia averages at about 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Imperia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Imperia. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Catania during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Catania because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

In October, Catania is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually gets more rain in October than Imperia. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Imperia. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Catania is around the same temperature as Imperia in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Catania usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during winter. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Catania usually receives around the same amount of rain as Imperia. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Catania as well as Imperia. Many travelers come to Catania for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Catania is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Imperia averages at about 15°C (58°F).

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

Catania usually gets less rain in April than Imperia. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Imperia and Catania