A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nafplio vs. Palermo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Nafplio or Palermo?

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

Should I visit Nafplio or Palermo? 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.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a picturesque, romantic, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Palermo

Palermo is a diverse, dynamic, and fun city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nafplio and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nafplio or Palermo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo. Although Nafplio and Palermo are popular destinations, Palermo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palermo is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Nafplio attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nafplio is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. Palermo is famous for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also well known for The Cathedral.

How is Nafplio different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nafplio or Palermo?

Nafplio is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nafplio. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

Is the Food Better in Nafplio or Palermo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Nafplio and Palermo offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Nafplio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palermo makes for a great culinary experience. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Both Nafplio and Palermo have excellent vibes after the sun sets.

Nafplio has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

The people in Palermo know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few good snorkeling spots. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for Beaches?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Palermo is considered a top beach destination. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Many people head to Nafplio to enjoy the beach. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for its Old Town?

Nafplio is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Nafplio is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Palermo?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Nafplio is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for Families?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Palermo. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nafplio. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for Couples?

Nafplio is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Nafplio is a very popular place to visit for couples. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio and Palermo are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nafplio. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

Palermo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for Students?

Palermo is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Nafplio is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Nafplio is not popular with students.

Is Nafplio or Palermo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nafplio is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Nafplio has a few public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Nafplio or Palermo a more walkable city?

Nafplio is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Nafplio on foot. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

Palermo is very walkable. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

For even more information, also check out Is Nafplio Worth Visiting? and Is Palermo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Palermo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nafplio and Palermo. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nafplio, and 1-3 days is enough time in Palermo.

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

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

One day in Nafplio or Palermo?

In Nafplio, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Palermo, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

A weekend in Nafplio or Palermo?

In Nafplio, 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 Nafplio has to offer.

In Palermo, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palermo has to offer.

Five days in Nafplio or Palermo?

Nafplio 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.

Palermo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Nafplio or Palermo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nafplio. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nafplio. 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 Palermo. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Palermo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio and Palermo, 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 Nafplio or Palermo?

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 Nafplio or Palermo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Palermo. Many visitors come to Nafplio in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Nafplio is around the same temperature as Palermo in the summer. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Palermo fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the summer, Nafplio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets more rain in July than Palermo. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Palermo in the Autumn?

Both Palermo and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Palermo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nafplio is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nafplio in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Palermo averages at about 20°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during autumn. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nafplio. In October, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Palermo. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nafplio or Palermo in the Winter?

Both Palermo and Nafplio during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

In January, Nafplio is generally cooler than Palermo. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 10°C (51°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Nafplio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually gets more rain in January than Palermo. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Palermo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Palermo. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Nafplio is around the same temperature as Palermo in the spring. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Palermo fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during spring. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Palermo. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palermo and Nafplio