A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Melbourne vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Melbourne or Florence?

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

Should I visit Melbourne 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.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a progressive, livable, and friendly city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Melbourne and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Melbourne or Florence?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Florence than Melbourne. While Melbourne is larger than Florence, Florence has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Florence is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Melbourne is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Florence is more touristy than Melbourne and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Melbourne is well known for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population.

How is Melbourne different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Florence is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. 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.

Many visitors head to Melbourne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

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

Florence is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Melbourne is an experience not to be missed. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Is Melbourne or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Melbourne is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Melbourne has something for everybody. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Melbourne or Florence Better for Beaches?

Melbourne is a great city for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Melbourne. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Melbourne or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is very popular for its old town. However, Melbourne does not have a historic old town.

Florence has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Melbourne does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Melbourne or Florence?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Melbourne and Florence.

Melbourne is well-known for its shopping. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

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.

Is Melbourne or Florence Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Melbourne is very family-friendly. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Melbourne or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Melbourne is a good city for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Melbourne or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular 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.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Melbourne or Florence Better for Students?

Both Melbourne and Florence are fantastic destinations for students.

Many students frequent Melbourne. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

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

Melbourne is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Melbourne can get you to some places easily. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

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

Is Melbourne or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Florence. Most people explore the city on foot.

Melbourne is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Melbourne?

How long in Melbourne or Florence?

Both Melbourne 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 Melbourne. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Melbourne, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Florence than Melbourne. 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 Melbourne 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.

One day in Melbourne or Florence?

Melbourne is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Florence. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Melbourne or Florence?

Melbourne 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Melbourne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the alluring destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Melbourne or Florence?

Melbourne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Melbourne, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the iconic city of Florence. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Melbourne or Florence?

Melbourne is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Melbourne and Florence, we can see that Melbourne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Melbourne is in Pacific and Florence is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Melbourne or Florence?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Melbourne 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 Melbourne or Florence?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Melbourne is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Florence has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Melbourne or Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Melbourne and Florence. Many travelers come to Melbourne for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Melbourne is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In Melbourne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Melbourne usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Melbourne gets 271 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Melbourne usually receives more rain than Florencein July. Melbourne gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Melbourne or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Melbourne as well as Florence. Many visitors come to Melbourne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Melbourne is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Melbourne in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F)in October.

In the autumn, Melbourne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florencein October. Melbourne gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets less rain in April than Florencein October. Melbourne gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Melbourne or Florence in the Winter?

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

In July, Melbourne is generally a little warmer than Florencein January. Daily temperatures in Melbourne average around 9°C (49°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Melbourne usually receives more sunshine than Florence during winter. Melbourne gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Melbourne usually receives less rain than Florencein January. Melbourne gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Melbourne or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Melbourne during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Melbourne is around the same temperature as Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Melbourne averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Melbourne. In the spring, Melbourne often gets more sunshine than Florencein April. Melbourne gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Melbourne usually gets less rain in October than Florencein April. Melbourne gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Melbourne