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

Should you visit Lucerne or Pompeii?

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 Lucerne and Pompeii. 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a active, cultural, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a one-of-a-kind, ancient, and famous archeological site. It's also popular because of the museums.

Lucerne and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Pompeii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lucerne. Although Lucerne and Pompeii are popular destinations, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii attracts visitors for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Lucerne and is known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Lucerne is famous for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Pompeii has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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

Lucerne is very good for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Lucerne is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

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 Lucerne or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

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

Lucerne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

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 Lucerne or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Pompeii?

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

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 Lucerne or Pompeii Better for Families?

Pompeii is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Lucerne or Pompeii Better for Couples?

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

Lucerne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pompeii is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Pompeii Better for Students?

Pompeii is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Lucerne and Pompeii both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Pompeii has a few public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Lucerne or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Pompeii is a very easy archeological site to get around 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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Pompeii?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pompeii than Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Pompeii?

In Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Lucerne or Pompeii?

In Lucerne, 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 Lucerne has to offer.

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Pompeii?

Lucerne 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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Lucerne or Pompeii?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pompeii. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, 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 Lucerne and Pompeii, we can see that Lucerne 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne 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 Lucerne Expensive? and Is Pompeii Expensive?.

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Pompeii. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pompeii in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lucerne is around the same temperature as Pompeii in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Pompeii fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pompeii this time of the year. In Lucerne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Pompeii. Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Pompeii. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lucerne is cooler than Pompeii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Pompeii averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Lucerne usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Pompeii in the Winter?

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

Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Lucerne is generally much colder than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Lucerne gets 55 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, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Lucerne during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Lucerne is cooler than Pompeii in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Pompeii. Lucerne 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 Lucerne