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

Should you visit Palermo or Budapest?

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 Budapest 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 fun, colorful, and diverse 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Budapest

Budapest is a historic, authentic, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Palermo and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Budapest?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Budapest than Palermo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Budapest is more popular for its museums, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Palermo is known for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Budapest is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Hungarian Parliament Building. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

How is Palermo different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Budapest 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 Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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 Budapest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palermo is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Palermo has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Palermo or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Budapest are superb when it comes to partying.

Palermo offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Budapest has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Palermo or Budapest Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Palermo. 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.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Budapest Better for Beaches?

Palermo is great for the beache. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

Palermo is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

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

Budapest is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Budapest?

Both Palermo and Budapest are superb 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 Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Palermo or Budapest Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palermo is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Palermo or Budapest Better for Couples?

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

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

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 Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is very popular for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Budapest is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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

Is Palermo or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is very popular for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Budapest is a very popular city for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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 Budapest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Budapest is very popular for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Budapest has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro, 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 Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest 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 Budapest on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Budapest?

In either Palermo or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Palermo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Palermo, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest 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 Budapest.

One day in Palermo or Budapest?

The city of Palermo offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

A weekend in Palermo or Budapest?

Palermo 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 Palermo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Budapest has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Budapest?

Palermo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Budapest is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Budapest has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Budapest?

Palermo 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When comparing the travel costs between Palermo and Budapest, we can see that Palermo 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 Budapest Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Budapest?

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

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 Palermo or Budapest in the Summer?

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

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Budapest. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Budapest. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Budapest in the Autumn?

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

Palermo is much warmer than Budapest in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives more rain than Budapest. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Budapest in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Budapest in the winter. In the winter, Palermo is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Budapest averages at about -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets more rain in January than Budapest. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Budapest in the Spring?

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

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

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Budapest. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Palermo