A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Como for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Palermo or Como?

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 Como 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 diverse, dynamic, and fun city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Como

Como is a scenic, trendy, and fun lake area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Palermo and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Como?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo than Como. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palermo is very popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Como attracts visitors for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Como is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Palermo is famous for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also well known for The Cathedral.

How is Palermo different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Palermo is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

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

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

Many restaurants in Como have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Is Palermo or Como Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Palermo has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Palermo or Como Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Como 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.

Como is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Como Better for Beaches?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Como. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Palermo or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Como is a popular spot for hiking. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Como?

Como is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Como is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Palermo or Como Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Como 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.

Como is a very family-friendly destination. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Is Palermo or Como Better for Couples?

Como is very popular for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Como is a great lake area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

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 Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Como is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Como is a very popular lake area for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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 Como Better for Students?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Como is not popular with students.

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.

Como is not popular with students.

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

Como is a lake area with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Como has a few public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

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 Como a more walkable city?

Palermo and Como 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.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Como or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Palermo or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Como due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Palermo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

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

One day in Palermo or Como?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Como, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This lake area 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 Como?

Palermo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Como, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Como has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Como?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the fun destination of Palermo. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Como is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

A week in Palermo or Como?

The colorful city of Palermo offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Como. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Como. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Como, we can see that Como 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como 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 Como Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Como?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Como, 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 Como?

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 Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Palermo during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Como because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Palermo is around the same temperature as Como in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Como, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Como. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Como. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Como. 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 hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Como this time of year.

In the autumn, Palermo is a little warmer than Como. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Como averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Como during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Como receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Como. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Como in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Como. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Como for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Como. In January, Palermo is generally much warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Como. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in January than Como. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Como in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Palermo is a little warmer than Como in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Como during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Como. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Como and Palermo