A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corfu vs. Pompeii for Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Corfu or Pompeii?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Pompeii, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Corfu

Corfu is a striking, relaxing, and stunning island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a one-of-a-kind, ancient, and famous archeological site. Visitors also love the museums.

Corfu and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Corfu. Although Corfu and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Corfu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Corfu is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Corfu and is known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Corfu is popular for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. It is also home to Canal d'Amour.

How is Corfu different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Corfu or Pompeii?

Pompeii is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Pompeii are world-renowned. 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.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Corfu has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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 Corfu or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

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

Corfu has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

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 Corfu or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

Corfu is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Corfu is a perfect choice. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Corfu is renowned for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Corfu is a very popular vacation destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Corfu or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

Corfu is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Corfu specifically for its hiking. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Pompeii?

Corfu is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Corfu. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

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 Corfu or Pompeii Better for Families?

Corfu is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Corfu is one of the most popular family destinations. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

Pompeii is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Corfu or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Corfu is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Corfu has plenty to offer. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. 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 Corfu or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu 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 Corfu. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

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 Corfu or Pompeii Better for Students?

Pompeii is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Pompeii. 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.

Corfu is not popular with students.

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

Corfu 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.

Corfu offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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 Corfu or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Pompeii is a very easy archeological site to get around 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.

Corfu is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Corfu or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Corfu than Pompeii because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pompeii.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Corfu 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 Corfu.

One day in Corfu or Pompeii?

In Corfu, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Pompeii, many people enjoy the museums that this one-of-a-kind destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Corfu or Pompeii?

In Corfu, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pompeii. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Corfu or Pompeii?

Corfu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Corfu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Pompeii is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Corfu or Pompeii?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. In Corfu, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find museums around the ancient destination of Pompeii. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Corfu and Pompeii, we can see that Pompeii is more expensive. And not only is Corfu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Corfu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Corfu 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 Corfu.

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

When is the best time to visit Corfu or Pompeii?

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 Corfu or Pompeii in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Pompeii. Most visitors come to Corfu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Corfu is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Corfu in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pompeii this time of the year. In Corfu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Corfu usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Corfu or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Pompeii. The autumn months attract visitors to Corfu because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Corfu is generally around the same temperature as Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 18°C (65°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Corfu receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Corfu usually gets more rain in October than Pompeii. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pompeii for the museums.

Corfu is a little warmer than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 10°C (49°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Corfu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii during winter. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. It's quite rainy in Corfu. In January, Corfu usually receives more rain than Pompeii. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Corfu or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Corfu during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Corfu for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Corfu is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Corfu in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Pompeii averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Corfu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in April than Pompeii. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Corfu