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

Should you visit Interlaken or Pompeii?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Pompeii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a breathtaking, world-class, and stunning town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and food.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a famous, iconic, and one-of-a-kind archeological site. Other reasons to visit include museums.

Interlaken and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Pompeii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pompeii than Interlaken, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pompeii is better known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Interlaken is more popular for its skiing, food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is well known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Pompeii is well known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Also, Pompeii is famous for the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins.

The Pompeii Archaeological Ruins

How is Interlaken different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Pompeii Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is very good for skiing and snowboarding. However, Pompeii is not a skiing destination.

Head to Interlaken for some great skiing and other winter activities. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Pompeii is not a skiing destination.

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

Pompeii is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Pompeii from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Interlaken has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

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 Interlaken or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Pompeii is not a good area for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Pompeii doesn't offer many options. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Interlaken specifically for its hiking. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Pompeii?

Pompeii is not a good area for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Pompeii can be found for those interested. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Pompeii Better for Families?

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

Interlaken is one of the most popular family destinations. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken or Pompeii Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Interlaken has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

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 Interlaken or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Interlaken and Pompeii are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Interlaken is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

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 Interlaken or Pompeii Better for Students?

Pompeii is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Plenty of students 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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Interlaken 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.

Interlaken offers a very effecient public transportation network. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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 Interlaken or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Pompeii. 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.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Interlaken or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Interlaken 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 Interlaken, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pompeii.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pompeii than Interlaken 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 Pompeii.

One day in Interlaken or Pompeii?

In Interlaken, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums around the one-of-a-kind archeological site of Pompeii, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pompeii, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Interlaken or Pompeii?

In Interlaken, you'll find food and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer.

With museums around the destination of Pompeii, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this archeological site.

Five days in Interlaken or Pompeii?

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Interlaken has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Pompeii, a popular archeological site, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Pompeii?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Interlaken. Many people enjoy the food and skiing when visiting Interlaken. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Pompeii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, 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 Interlaken and Pompeii, we can see that Interlaken is more expensive. And not only is Pompeii much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pompeii would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pompeii 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken than you might in Pompeii.

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

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

Both Pompeii and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pompeii this time of year.

In July, Interlaken is generally around the same temperature as Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 21°C (70°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Pompeii. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Interlaken. Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Pompeii. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Interlaken or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Interlaken during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year.

Interlaken is cooler than Pompeii in the autumn. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Interlaken gets 120 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. Interlaken usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Pompeii. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Pompeii in the winter for the museums.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. In the winter, Interlaken is much colder than Pompeii. Typically, the winter temperatures in Interlaken in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Pompeii averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Interlaken gets 55 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, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Interlaken or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Pompeii. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Interlaken is generally cooler than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 12°C (53°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in April than Pompeii. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Interlaken