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

Should you visit Palermo or Ghent?

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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a historic, under-rated, and youthful city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Ghent?

You'll generally find more things to do in Palermo than Ghent. Palermo is bigger than Ghent, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Palermo is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Ghent is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Palermo different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ghent 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 Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Palermo and Ghent offer very good local cuisine and 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ghent. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Palermo or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

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

Ghent is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Palermo has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Palermo or Ghent Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Ghent Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Palermo for it's beautiful 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.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

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

Ghent is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Ghent?

Both Palermo and Ghent are very good 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 Ghent. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Palermo or Ghent Better for Families?

Palermo is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Palermo or Ghent Better for Couples?

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

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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 Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Ghent are notable 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 Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Palermo or Ghent Better for Students?

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

Ghent is a very popular city for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

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

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

Ghent has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent a more walkable city?

Palermo and Ghent both are very good 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.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Ghent?

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

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

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

One day in Palermo or Ghent?

In Palermo, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this dynamic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Ghent, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Ghent, you'll find food and shopping. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Ghent?

Palermo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Palermo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Ghent is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Ghent?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Ghent?

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

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 Ghent in the Summer?

Both Ghent and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palermo is a little warmer than Ghent. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Ghent averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Ghent. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Ghent. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Ghent in the Autumn?

Both Ghent and Palermo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Palermo is generally much warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Ghent. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Ghent in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Ghent. Many visitors come to Palermo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ghent can be very cold during winter. Palermo is much warmer than Ghent in the winter. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ghent. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Ghent in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Ghent. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Palermo is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Ghent averages at about 8°C (47°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 Ghent. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Ghent. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Palermo