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

Should you visit Palermo or Chartres?

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 Chartres 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.

Chartres

Chartres is a spectacular, historic, and grand town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Palermo and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Chartres?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo. Although Palermo and Chartres are both popular with visitors, Palermo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palermo is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is known for its small town charm. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral. Chartres is popular for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Palermo different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Chartres is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

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

Palermo is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Palermo or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is great for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Palermo for the nightlife scene. 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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Palermo or Chartres Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Chartres Better for Beaches?

Palermo is great for the beache. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Chartres?

Palermo is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Palermo is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Palermo or Chartres Better for Families?

Palermo is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Palermo or Chartres Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Chartres 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.

Chartres is a nice destination for couples. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Palermo or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Chartres 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 Chartres. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

Is Palermo or Chartres Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to 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.

Chartres is not popular with students.

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

Chartres 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 Chartres. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

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 Chartres a more walkable city?

Palermo and Chartres 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.

Chartres is very walkable. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Palermo or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Palermo than Chartres because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Palermo, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chartres.

Families should spend more time in Palermo than Chartres. 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 Chartres. 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 Chartres 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 Chartres?

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.

In Chartres, you'll find food and museums. This town 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 Chartres?

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.

In Chartres, you'll find museums and food. 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 Chartres has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Chartres?

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.

Chartres 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Chartres. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Chartres?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Chartres. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Chartres, 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Chartres. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Chartres in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chartres. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Chartres. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Chartres in the Autumn?

Both Chartres and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, most visitors come to Chartres for the small town atmosphere during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives more rain than Chartres. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Chartres in the Winter?

Both Chartres and Palermo during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Chartres because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Chartres can be very cold. In the winter, Palermo is much warmer than Chartres. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Chartres averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Chartres. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Chartres in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Chartres. The spring months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

In April, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 15°C (58°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Chartres and Palermo