A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Bergamo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Palermo or Bergamo?

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 Bergamo 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. Palermo is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Palermo travel costs.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a under-rated, historical, and fascinating city. Bergamo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Bergamo travel costs.

Palermo and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Bergamo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo than Bergamo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palermo is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bergamo is known for its historical sights. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Palermo different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bergamo 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 Bergamo?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Palermo or Bergamo.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palermo. 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.

Bergamo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.

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

Both Palermo and Bergamo offer high quality local cuisine and restaurants.

Dining out in Palermo is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Bergamo. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

Is Palermo or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Bergamo 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 Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Palermo or Bergamo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bergamo 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.

Bergamo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

Palermo is notable for the beach. However, Bergamo 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.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Bergamo is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Bergamo offers a nice historic old town area. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Bergamo?

Palermo is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Palermo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Bergamo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

Is Palermo or Bergamo More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of good scenery and beauty in both Palermo and Bergamo.

Palermo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city has beautiful beaches as well as nice architecture.

Bergamo is a gorgeous place to visit. The city is filled with beautiful squares and impressive architecture, making it a wonderful place to explore.

Is Palermo or Bergamo Better for Families?

Palermo is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Palermo is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.

Is Palermo or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Bergamo 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.

Bergamo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

Is Palermo or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Bergamo 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 Bergamo. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Palermo or Bergamo Better for Students?

Palermo and Bergamo are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for students. 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.

Plenty of students visit Bergamo. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

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

Bergamo 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.

Bergamo has a few public transit options. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

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 Bergamo a more walkable city?

Palermo and Bergamo both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Bergamo is very walkable. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palermo and Bergamo. In our opinion, Palermo has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Palermo than Bergamo. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Palermo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

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

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

One day in Palermo or Bergamo?

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.

In Bergamo, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Palermo or Bergamo?

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.

In Bergamo, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bergamo has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Bergamo?

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.

Bergamo 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 Palermo or Bergamo?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergamo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bergamo. 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 Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Bergamo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Bergamo. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Bergamo, 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 Bergamo?

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 Bergamo in the Summer?

Both Bergamo 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 Bergamo because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palermo is generally around the same temperature as Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bergamo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Bergamo in the Autumn?

Both Bergamo 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 Bergamo this time of year.

Palermo is a little warmer than Bergamo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Bergamo fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 137 hours of full sun.

Bergamo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Bergamo. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Bergamo in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bergamo. In the winter, Palermo is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Bergamo in the Spring?

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

In April, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 15°C (58°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°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 Bergamo. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Bergamo. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Palermo