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

Should you visit Palermo or Basel?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Basel can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Palermo

Palermo is a colorful, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Basel

Basel is a historic, cultural, and museum-filled city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Basel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Basel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo than Basel, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palermo is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Basel is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral. Basel is popular for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Palermo different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Basel 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 Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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 Palermo or Basel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palermo is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palermo. 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.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Palermo or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Palermo has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Palermo or Basel Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Basel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Basel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Basel Better for Beaches?

Palermo is notable for the beache. However, Basel is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Palermo. 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.

Basel is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Basel Better for its Old Town?

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

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Basel?

Both Palermo and Basel are high quality shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Is Palermo or Basel Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Basel are high quality to visit with kids.

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Basel is a very family-friendly destination. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

Is Palermo or Basel Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Basel are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Basel is a nice destination for couples. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Palermo or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Basel are good destinations for backpackers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Plenty of backpackers visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Palermo or Basel Better for Students?

Basel is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

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.

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

Basel is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Basel. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Palermo or Basel a more walkable city?

Basel 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 Basel on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible 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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palermo and Basel. In our opinion, Basel has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Basel than Palermo. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel than Palermo 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 Basel.

One day in Palermo or Basel?

In Palermo, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this dynamic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Basel, 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.

A weekend in Palermo or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

In Basel, 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 Basel has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Basel?

Palermo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Palermo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Basel 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.

A week in Palermo or Basel?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Palermo and Basel, we can see that Basel 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel 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 Palermo Expensive? and Is Basel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Basel?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Basel, 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 Palermo or Basel?

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 Palermo or Basel in the Summer?

Both Basel and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Basel because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Basel. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Basel fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Basel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Basel during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Basel. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Basel in the Autumn?

Both Basel and Palermo during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

Palermo is a little warmer than Basel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Basel. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Basel. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Basel in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Basel. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Basel. In the winter, Palermo is much warmer than Basel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Basel averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Basel during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Basel. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Basel in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Basel. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Basel in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Basel. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 15°C (58°F), and Basel fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Basel. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Basel. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Basel and Palermo