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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Pompeii?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Pompeii can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Pompeii

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

Edinburgh and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Pompeii is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

How is Edinburgh different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Edinburgh and Pompeii.

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Pompeii on the map. 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.

Is Edinburgh or Pompeii Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Pompeii is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Pompeii is not a theatre destination.

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

Edinburgh is a decent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

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 Edinburgh or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

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

Edinburgh has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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 Edinburgh or Pompeii Better for Music?

Edinburgh is renowned for its music scene. However, Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Pompeii?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh or Pompeii Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Pompeii are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Pompeii is known to be 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 Edinburgh or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Edinburgh is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh or Pompeii Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Edinburgh and Pompeii.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

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 Edinburgh or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Edinburgh and Pompeii are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Getting around Pompeii on foot is easy. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Pompeii?

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

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Pompeii?

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find museums around the archeological site of Pompeii. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Pompeii?

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edinburgh has to offer.

You'll find museums around the famous destination of Pompeii. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this archeological site has to offer. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Pompeii?

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Edinburgh has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the famous archeological site of Pompeii. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Pompeii?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Pompeii is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Edinburgh and Pompeii, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Pompeii Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Edinburgh is much colder than Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Pompeii. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Edinburgh usually receives more rain than Pompeii. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Edinburgh during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Edinburgh usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Pompeii. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums are the main draw to Pompeii this time of year.

The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. Edinburgh is much colder than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Pompeii. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In the spring, Edinburgh is much colder than Pompeii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Pompeii averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in April than Pompeii. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Edinburgh