A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ghent vs. Positano for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Ghent or Positano?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Ghent and Positano. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Ghent

Ghent is a under-rated, youthful, and high energy city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Ghent and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Positano than Ghent, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Positano is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Ghent is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Positano is more touristy than Ghent and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Also, Positano is famous for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Ghent different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ghent or Positano?

Ghent is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ghent or Positano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Positano is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Positano, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Ghent is a world class party destination. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Ghent is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Positano for its luxury resorts. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Ghent is not a resort destination.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a moderate Mediterranean village for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Beaches?

Positano is a good destination for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Positano offers a nice beach destination. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The historic old town of Positano is revered around the world. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Positano is a popular spot for hiking. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Positano?

Both Ghent and Positano are excellent shopping destinations.

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Positano is well-known for its shopping. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Families?

Both Ghent and Positano are notable family-friendly destinations.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Positano is a family-friendly city. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Couples?

Positano is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Positano is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ghent and Positano are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Students?

Ghent is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Positano is not popular with students.

Is Ghent or Positano Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ghent is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its public transit.

Ghent has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Positano has a few public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Ghent or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Positano on foot. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Positano?

Both Ghent and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Ghent. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ghent, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Positano than Ghent 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 Positano.

One day in Ghent or Positano?

The beautiful city of Ghent offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This Mediterranean village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Ghent or Positano?

Ghent is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ghent, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Ghent or Positano?

Ghent is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Positano is a fun place to experience. Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Ghent or Positano?

Ghent is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Positano?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Ghent and Positano, 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 Ghent or Positano?

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 Ghent or Positano in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Positano. The summer months attract visitors to Ghent because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In July, Ghent is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 17°C (63°F), and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Positano. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ghent this time of the year. In the summer, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Positano. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in July than Positano. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Positano in the Autumn?

Both Positano and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Ghent is cooler than Positano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Positano during autumn. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In October, Ghent usually receives less rain than Positano. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ghent or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano and Ghent during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ghent. In the winter, Ghent is much colder than Positano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ghent in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Positano averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Positano. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun.

Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Ghent usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Positano in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Positano. Many visitors come to Ghent in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Ghent is generally much colder than Positano. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 8°C (47°F), and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Positano during spring. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ghent usually receives less rain than Positano. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Positano and Ghent