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

Should you visit Graz or Pompeii?

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

Should I visit Graz or Pompeii? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Graz

Graz is a historical, beautiful, and medieval city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Pompeii

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

Graz and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Graz or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Graz. Although Graz and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Graz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Graz is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Graz and is known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Graz is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. It is also home to The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower.

How is Graz different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Graz
Pompeii

Pompeii is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Many visitors head to Graz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.


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

Graz
Pompeii

Graz is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Graz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

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 Graz or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Pompeii

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

Graz has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

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 Graz or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Pompeii

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

The old town of Graz is one of the most recognized in the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Pompeii?

Graz
Pompeii

Graz 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 Graz. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

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 Graz or Pompeii Better for Families?

Graz
Pompeii

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Graz or Pompeii.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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 Graz or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Graz
Pompeii

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

Graz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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 Graz or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Pompeii

For backpackers, both Graz and Pompeii are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Pompeii is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Graz or Pompeii Better for Students?

Graz
Pompeii

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

Graz is very popular with students. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

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

Graz
Pompeii

Graz 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.

Graz offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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 Graz or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Graz
Pompeii

Graz and Pompeii are world-class when it comes to walkability.

Graz is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Graz?

How long in Graz or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Graz or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Graz than Pompeii because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pompeii.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Graz or Pompeii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Graz 2-3 
    Pompeii 1-2

One day in Graz or Pompeii?

In Graz, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Graz or Pompeii?

In Graz, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Graz has to offer.

Pompeii is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Graz or Pompeii?

Graz is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

You'll find museums around the ancient destination of Pompeii. This archeological site offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Graz or Pompeii?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Graz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Graz. 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.

The famous archeological site of Pompeii offers museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pompeii or Graz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, while the average daily cost in Pompeii is €151. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Graz and Pompeii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Pompeii 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Pompeii 140
Compare Hotels in Graz and Pompeii

Looking for a hotel in Graz or Pompeii? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Graz


Hotels in Pompeii


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Graz Hotel Prices and Pompeii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Pompeii 54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

Also for Graz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pompeii

Also for Pompeii, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer Private from Ravello to Naples: $239
  • Transfers Ravello - Naples: $207
  • Organic Wine Tasting & Lunch on Vesuvius with Transfer from Pompeii: $132
  • Private transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Private transfer from Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Small Group Pompeii Wine Tasting with Lunch & Transfer Included : $97
  • Transfers from Naples to Sorrento Positano Amalfi Ravello Maiori: $97
  • Transfer from Pompeii to Naples or viceversa: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Pompeii?

Prices for flights to both Pompeii and Graz change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Graz 32
    Pompeii 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pompeii

For Pompeii, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traditional Neapolitan Dinner in Pompei - Villa Franca - Family Restourant: $38
  • Cooking Class with Italian Mamma in Pompeii: $65
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Pompei: $93
  • Pompei tour with a 2000 years roman dinner: $112
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Pompei: $142
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Pompei: $158
  • Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Pompei: $158
  • Private market tour and cooking class with lunch or dinner in Pompei: $206
  • guided tour of the ruins and cooking class fresh pasta : $272
  • Cooking class: Pasta Experience in Pompei, Italy: $300

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Graz 13
    Pompeii 77

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

Tours and Activities in Pompeii

For Pompeii, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Pompeii Archeological Site Fast Track Entry Ticket : $36
  • Pompeii Day Tour: $97
  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour with Certified Guide in Pompeii: $251
  • 2 Hours Private Tour of Pompeii for Journey Through Time: $196
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Pompeii with an Archaeologist: $272
  • 2 days tour: Pompei & Naples center with underground: $207
  • 2 hours Pompeii Tour with local historian - ticket included: $60
  • 2-hour Private Guided Tour of Pompeii: $272
  • Best of Pompeii - 2 hour Private Tour with Alex: $271
  • Complete Pompeii Skip the Line Tour with Archaeologist Guide: $55
  • Discover Pompeii on this Guided Walking Tour of the Buried City: $63
  • Discover hidden secrets of Pompei on a Private tour with a local: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Graz 16
    Pompeii 7.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Pompeii

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pompeii:

  • Wine Tasting Tour on the Slopes of Vesuvius: $46
  • Wine Tasting on Mt. Vesuvius: $55
  • Seafood Lunch with Wine Tasting & Tour on a golf cart: $87
  • Guided Tour of Pompeii Ruins with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $98
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting in Pompeii with a Local: $124
  • Pompeii Guided Tour & Horse Riding on Vesuvius with Wine Tasting: $191
  • Pompeii, Herculaneum and scenic drive of the Mt. Vesuvius with wine tasting: $207


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

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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Pompeii. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Graz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Graz is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Graz in July average around 23°C (73°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 Graz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Graz usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

Graz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Pompeii. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Pompeii 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Graz or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Graz as well as Pompeii. Many travelers come to Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Graz is generally cooler than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Graz often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Graz usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Pompeii 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Graz or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Graz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Pompeii for the museums during these months.

Graz can get quite cold in the winter. Graz is much colder than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Graz usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Graz gets 95 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. In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Pompeii 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Graz or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Graz during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Graz for the natural beauty during these months.

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

In the spring, Graz often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in April than Pompeii. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Pompeii 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Graz

Graz Pompeii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)