A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Taormina for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Taormina. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a dramatic, historic, and spiritual destination. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Taormina

Taormina is a opulent, historic, and beautiful town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Taormina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Taormina. Although Kalampaka (Meteora) and Taormina are both popular with visitors, Taormina has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Taormina is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is known for its museums. Kalampaka (Meteora) is popular for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Taormina is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. It is also home to The Greek Theater.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Taormina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Taormina and Kalampaka (Meteora). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Kalampaka (Meteora) is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kalampaka (Meteora) has many famous sights for visitors. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

Taormina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.


Is the Food Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Taormina is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Taormina has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Taormina is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Taormina has a large number of nightlife venues. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina Better for Resorts?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Taormina is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Taormina to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina Better for Beaches?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Taormina is a good destination for the beache. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Taormina offers a nice beach destination. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Taormina is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Taormina. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a destination with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Kalampaka (Meteora) offers lots of family activities. There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Taormina is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Taormina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Taormina is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Taormina has some public transit options. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Taormina

Taormina is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Taormina is a very walkable town. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.


For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Taormina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Taormina or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

It's fun to spend time in either Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Taormina due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kalampaka (Meteora), and 2-4 days is enough time in Taormina.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Taormina than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Taormina.


  • How many days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Taormina 2-4

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

The beautiful destination of Kalampaka (Meteora) offers museums and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Taormina is a small town with plenty to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

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

Many people visit Taormina for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Taormina, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums 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.

Because Taormina is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers something for everyone.

Since Taormina is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Taormina or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, while the average daily cost in Taormina is €108. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Taormina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Taormina 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Taormina 140
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Taormina

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina? 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


Hotels in Taormina


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: Taormina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Taormina 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274
  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41
  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

Prices for flights to both Taormina and Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Taormina 33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Taormina 11

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • 3-Hour Hiking and Scramble Guided Tour of Great Saint in Meteora: $82
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Discover Meteora's Monastic Heritage: Personalized Private Tour: $240
  • Golden Sunrise Meteora Private Photo Tour: $147
  • Half-Day Meteora Cultural Tour from Kalambaka train station: $47
  • Hiking Tour to Meteora from Kalambaka - Local Agency: $49
  • Kalambaka's Train Station: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Lunch: $52

Tours and Activities in Taormina

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

  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Lovers Tour: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Small Group Tour of Sicily Highlights: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Taormina 8.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

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

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Expensive? and Is Taormina Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

Taormina has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) and Taormina, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Taormina. Most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Taormina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kalampaka (Meteora) is around the same temperature as Taormina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Taormina averages at about 27°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Taormina this time of the year. In Kalampaka (Meteora), it's very sunny this time of the year. Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Taormina during summer. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 332 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more rain than Taormina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F) 
    Taormina 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Taormina. The autumn months attract visitors to Kalampaka (Meteora) because of the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Taormina this time of year.

In October, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally cooler than Taormina. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 17°C (62°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets less sunshine than Taormina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Taormina. Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in October than Taormina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F) 
    Taormina 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina in the Winter?

Both Taormina and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Taormina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is much colder than Taormina in the winter. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Taormina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Taormina during winter. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Taormina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F) 
    Taormina 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Taormina in the Spring?

Both Taormina and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Taormina in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kalampaka (Meteora) is cooler than Taormina. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Taormina averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kalampaka (Meteora). In the spring, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Taormina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 207 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in April than Taormina. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F) 
    Taormina 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Taormina and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) Taormina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)


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