A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Imperia vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Imperia or Florence?

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

Should I visit Imperia or Florence? 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.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Imperia and Florence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)


Is there more to do in Imperia or Florence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Florence. Although Imperia and Florence are both popular with visitors, Florence has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Florence is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Imperia different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Imperia or Florence?

Imperia
Florence

Florence is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Florence on the map. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


Is the Food Better in Imperia or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Imperia
Florence

Florence is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Florence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Florence

Evening events are good in both Imperia and Florence.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Imperia or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Imperia
Florence

Florence is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Florence can be explored in its historical center. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Florence?

Imperia
Florence

Florence is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Imperia or Florence Better for Families?

Imperia
Florence

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Imperia or Florence.

Imperia is a family-friendly place to visit. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Florence is a family-friendly town. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Imperia or Florence Better for Couples?

Imperia
Florence

Florence is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Imperia or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Imperia
Florence

Florence is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Florence is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Imperia or Florence Better for Students?

Imperia
Florence

Florence is a must-visit destination for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Imperia is not popular with students.

Is Imperia or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Imperia
Florence

Both Imperia and Florence offer good public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

Florence has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.


Is Imperia or Florence a more walkable city?

Imperia
Florence

Florence is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Imperia Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Florence?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Imperia 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 Florence.


  • How many days in Imperia or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Imperia 1-2 
    Florence 2-7

One day in Imperia or Florence?

The town of Imperia offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Florence, 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.

A weekend in Imperia or Florence?

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

In Florence, 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 Florence has to offer.


Five days in Imperia or Florence?

Imperia is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Florence 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 Florence has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Imperia or Florence?

Imperia is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. In Florence, you'll find museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Florence or Imperia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, while the average daily cost in Florence is €154. 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 Imperia and Florence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Florence 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Florence 174
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Imperia or Florence? 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 Imperia


Hotels in Florence


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: Imperia Hotel Prices and Florence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Florence 22

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:


  • Taxi Ride Within City
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    25
  • In City Parking (Full Day)
    30
  • Bus Pass (Full Day)
    5.00
  • Bus From Airport
    5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

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

  • Bus Transfer to/from Rome with Wi-Fi and Sockets: $4.22
  • Shared Bus Transfer to/from Pisa Airport: $16
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Florence Train Station: $35
  • Florence Airport (FLR) to Florence hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $40
  • Florence hotels to Florence Airport (FLR) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Florence Airport Private Departure Transfer: $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Florence SMN Train Station : $51
  • Private Transfer from SMN Train Station to Florence: $51
  • From La Spezia: Round-Trip Bus Transfer to Florence: $52
  • Private Transfer from your Hotel in Florence to the Airport: $59
  • Private Florence Airport to Hotel Transfer: $59
  • Arrival Private Transfer Florence Station SMN to Florence City by Sedan or Van: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Imperia or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence and Imperia 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
    Imperia 35
    Florence 36

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:


  • Panini Sandwich
    6.50
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $33
  • Virtual Live Cooking Class What Do You Have in Your Pantry: $35
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Bruschetta & Tiramisù: $35
  • Virtual Italian Meatballs Cooking Class, Live from Tuscany: $37
  • Street Food Tour with Local Expert Guide: $40
  • Florence Food Tour: Home-Made Pasta, Truffle, Cantucci, Olive Oil, Gelato: $41
  • Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours : $41
  • Florence Street Food Tour and sightseeing with Central Market: $46
  • Food Tour in Santo Spirito: $47
  • Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $47
  • Pasta Cooking Experience in Florence: $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Imperia 13
    Florence 30

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $426

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Admission to Uffizi
    11
  • Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi
    4.00
  • Firenze Card (for Two)
    100
  • Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two)
    20
  • Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee
    6.00
  • Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee
    7.00

Tours and Activities in Florence

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

  • The Best tour in Renaissance & Medici Tales - guided by a STORYTELLER: $0.02
  • The Best tour in Renaissance and Medici Tales: $0.02
  • Dark Mysteries and Legends Guided Walking Tour: $2.66
  • Renaissance and Medici Tales Guided Walking Tour: $2.66
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.19
  • Florence Walking Tour: $3.25
  • Sunset Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Private Tour to the Laboratory of Artistic Ceramics in Tuscany: $3.26
  • Smartphone self guided Tour: $4.25
  • Florence Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.50
  • The Towers of Florence Self-Guided Tour: $4.58
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Florence: $5.43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Imperia 7.50
    Florence 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:


  • Glass of Chianti
    4.20
  • Bottle of Wine
    7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
  • Winery tour and wine tasting of organic Chianti wines and extra virgin oil: $22
  • Wine Tasting Activity at Chianti Rufina: $23
  • 3 Types Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $29
  • From Florence to Chianti Rufina: Wine Tasting Experience: $32
  • Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $33
  • Discover Artimino wine tasting, a few steps from Florence: $33
  • Italy Private Wine Tasting Experience : $33
  • Three Types of Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $37
  • Wine Tasting and Paring Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
  • Chianti Wine Tour: Tuscan Reds : $42


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

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


Which is Bigger, Imperia or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Imperia and Florence, 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 Imperia or Florence?

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 Imperia or Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Florence. Many travelers come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 25°C (76°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Imperia this time of the year. In the summer, Imperia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florence. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets less rain in July than Florence. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Imperia 25°C (76°F) 
    Florence 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Imperia in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Imperia is a little warmer than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during autumn. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Imperia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Imperia 19°C (66°F) 
    Florence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Imperia during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Florence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Imperia is much warmer than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Imperia in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Imperia often gets more sunshine than Florence. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets more rain in January than Florence. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Imperia 11°C (51°F) 
    Florence 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Florence. The spring months attract visitors to Imperia because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In April, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 15°C (58°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during spring. Imperia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Imperia usually receives less rain than Florence. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Imperia 15°C (58°F) 
    Florence 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Florence and Imperia

Imperia Florence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 25°C (77°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 24°C (75°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)