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

Should you visit Palermo or Galway?

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 Galway 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Galway

Galway is a cultural, historical, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Galway?

You'll generally find more things to do in Palermo than Galway. Palermo is bigger than Galway, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Palermo is more touristy than Galway and is known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral. Galway is well known for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Palermo different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Galway is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

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

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palermo makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Palermo or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Galway are great 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.

Galway has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Palermo or Galway Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Galway Better for Beaches?

Palermo is notable for its beaches. However, Galway is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. 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.

Galway is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Galway?

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

Palermo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Palermo or Galway Better for Families?

Palermo is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Palermo is 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.

Galway is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Palermo or Galway Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Galway are notable 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.

Galway is a nice destination for couples. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Palermo or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galway 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.

Galway is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet 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 Galway Better for Students?

Palermo and Galway are both notable 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 Galway. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

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

Galway 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.

Galway has a few public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

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 Galway a more walkable city?

Palermo and Galway both are great 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.

Galway is very walkable. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Galway?

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

Families should spend more time in Palermo than Galway. 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 Galway. 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 Galway 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 Galway.

One day in Palermo or Galway?

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 Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway, 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 Galway has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Galway?

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.

Galway 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 Galway?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun 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 Galway. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galway. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Galway?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway in the Summer?

Both Galway and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

In the summer, Palermo is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Galway averages at about 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Galway during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Galway. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Galway in the Autumn?

Both Galway and Palermo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Galway for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Palermo is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Galway fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Galway. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun.

Galway gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Galway. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Galway in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Galway. Many travelers come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Galway in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Palermo is much warmer than Galway in the winter. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Galway during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

Galway receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Galway. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Galway in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Galway. Many visitors come to Palermo in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Galway for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Palermo is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Galway averages at about 9°C (48°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 Galway. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Galway. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Galway and Palermo