A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Catania or Pompeii?

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

Catania

Catania is a lively, youthful, and fun port 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.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a ancient, famous, and iconic archeological site. And you can't forget about the museums.

Catania and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Pompeii 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, shopping, and big city activities, while Pompeii is known for its museums & sights. Pompeii is more touristy than Catania and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Catania is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna.

How is Catania different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Pompeii are among the most recognizable in the world. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. 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.

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

Catania is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Catania or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Catania is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Catania has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Catania or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Catania is very good for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Catania to enjoy the beach. 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Catania or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Catania is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is Catania or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

Catania is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Catania. 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Pompeii?

Catania is very good for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Catania or Pompeii Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Catania or Pompeii.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Catania or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Both Catania and Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is a good port city for couples to visit. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Catania or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Catania is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Catania or Pompeii Better for Students?

Catania is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Catania is very popular with students. 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.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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

Catania is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Catania offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Catania or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Pompeii on foot. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Catania?

How long in Catania or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Catania or Pompeii 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 Pompeii. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Catania than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Pompeii, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Catania or Pompeii?

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 Catania or Pompeii in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Catania is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Pompeii, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Catania. In the summer, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in July than Pompeii. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Pompeii. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Catania this time of year.

In October, Catania is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

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

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Catania usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pompeii. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Catania or Pompeii in the Winter?

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

Catania is a little warmer than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Catania often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Catania usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Catania in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Catania is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Pompeii averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during spring. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Catania usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Catania