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

Should you visit Palermo or Bergen?

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 Bergen 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Bergen

Bergen is a nostalgic, friendly, and laid back city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Bergen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Bergen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo than Bergen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palermo is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bergen attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Palermo is famous for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also well known for The Cathedral. Bergen is famous for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

How is Palermo different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Bergen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Palermo or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

Is Palermo or Bergen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bergen 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.

Bergen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Bergen Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Bergen is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Bergen Better for its Old Town?

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

Bergen offers a nice historic old town area. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Bergen?

Both Palermo and Bergen are excellent 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 Bergen. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Is Palermo or Bergen Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Bergen are excellent 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.

Bergen is a very family-friendly destination. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Is Palermo or Bergen Better for Couples?

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

Bergen is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

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 Palermo or Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Bergen are nice 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 Bergen. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Palermo or Bergen Better for Students?

Palermo and Bergen are both nice 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 Bergen. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

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

Bergen 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 Bergen. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

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 Bergen a more walkable city?

Palermo and Bergen both are excellent 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.

Bergen is very walkable. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bergen or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Bergen?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palermo than Bergen 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 Bergen?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Palermo. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bergen, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Bergen?

Palermo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Bergen, 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 Bergen has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Bergen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bergen 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 Bergen?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dynamic destination of Palermo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bergen. 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 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.

When comparing the travel costs between Palermo and Bergen, we can see that Bergen 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Bergen?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bergen. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Bergen, 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 Bergen?

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 Bergen in the Summer?

Both Bergen and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bergen in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Palermo is much warmer than Bergen in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Bergen fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Bergen. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Bergen in the Autumn?

Both Bergen and Palermo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palermo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bergen for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Palermo is much warmer than Bergen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Bergen averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Bergen. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Bergen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Bergen. Most visitors come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bergen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bergen can be very cold. In January, Palermo is generally much warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Bergen. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Bergen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Bergen. The spring months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the small town charm are the main draw to Bergen this time of year.

Palermo is much warmer than Bergen in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Bergen fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Bergen. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergen and Palermo