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

Should you visit Lille or Positano?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lille or Positano, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lille

Lille is a friendly, historic, and under-rated city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a charming, picturesque, and colorful Mediterranean village. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Lille and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Positano. Although Lille and Positano are both popular with visitors, Positano has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Positano is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Lille is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Positano is more touristy than Lille and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also home to The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Lille is popular for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

How is Lille different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lille is adequate for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Lille and Positano offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

Many restaurants in Positano have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Is Lille or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Lille is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Lille for the nightlife scene. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

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 Lille or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is very popular for its resorts. However, Lille is not a resort destination.

Positano offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Lille is not a resort destination.

Is Lille or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a moderate Mediterranean village for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lille or Positano Better for Beaches?

Positano is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Lille is not a beach destination.

Positano has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Lille is not a beach destination.

Is Lille or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano is very popular for its old town. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Positano has a world-famous historical area. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Lille is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Is Lille or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lille or Positano?

Lille is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for shopping.

Many people travel to Lille specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Positano is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Lille or Positano Better for Families?

Positano is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lille or Positano Better for Couples?

Positano is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Positano has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Lille or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lille and Positano are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lille. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Positano is a good city to visit for backpackers. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Lille or Positano Better for Students?

Lille is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

Many students visit Lille. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Lille is great 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.

The public transit in Lille can get you to most places easily. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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 Lille or Positano a more walkable city?

Lille and Positano both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Lille on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Lille?

How long in Lille or Positano?

Both Lille 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 Lille. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lille, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

Families should spend more time in Positano than Lille. 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 Lille. 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 Lille than Positano 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 Lille.

One day in Lille or Positano?

The beautiful city of Lille offers nightlife and food. 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 Lille or Positano?

Lille 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 Lille, 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 Lille or Positano?

Lille 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.

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 Lille or Positano?

Lille is a great place to explore. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, 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 Lille and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Lille much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lille would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lille 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 Lille.

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

Which is Bigger, Lille or Positano?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Lille 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 Lille 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 Lille or Positano in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lille as well as Positano. Many travelers come to Lille for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Positano in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lille is cooler than Positano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lille in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Positano averages at about 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 Lille this time of the year. In the summer, Lille often gets less sunshine than Positano. Lille gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets more rain in July than Positano. Lille 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 Lille or Positano in the Autumn?

Both Positano and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Lille is generally cooler than Positano. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 12°C (54°F), and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Positano during autumn. Lille 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, Lille usually receives less rain than Positano. Lille 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 Lille or Positano in the Winter?

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

Lille can be very cold during winter. Lille is much colder than Positano in the winter. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lille often gets less sunshine than Positano. Lille 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. Lille usually gets less rain in January than Positano. Lille 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 Lille or Positano in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lille and Positano. The spring months attract visitors to Lille because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In the spring, Lille is much colder than Positano. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lille in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Positano averages at about 13°C (55°F).

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

In April, Lille usually receives less rain than Positano. Lille 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 Lille