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

Should you visit Palermo or Graz?

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 Graz 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.

Graz

Graz is a cultural, historical, and beautiful city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Graz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Palermo or Graz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo than Graz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palermo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Graz is known for its museums and historical sights. Graz is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral.

How is Palermo different from Graz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Palermo
Graz

Graz 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 Graz. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

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 Graz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palermo
Graz

Both Palermo and Graz offer excellent 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 Graz. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Is Palermo or Graz Better for Nightlife?

Palermo
Graz

Both Palermo and Graz are excellent 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.

Graz has a large number of nightlife venues. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Is Palermo or Graz Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo
Graz

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

Graz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Palermo or Graz Better for Beaches?

Palermo
Graz

Palermo is great for the beache. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Graz Better for its Old Town?

Palermo
Graz

Graz is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Graz has a world-famous historical area. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Graz?

Palermo
Graz

Both Palermo and Graz are excellent 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 Graz. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.


Is Palermo or Graz Better for Families?

Palermo
Graz

Both Palermo and Graz are excellent 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.

Graz is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Is Palermo or Graz Better for Couples?

Palermo
Graz

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

Graz is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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 Graz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palermo
Graz

Both Palermo and Graz 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 Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.


Is Palermo or Graz Better for Students?

Palermo
Graz

Graz is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Graz. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

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

Palermo
Graz

Graz 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 Graz. There are buses and trams that travel around the 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 Graz a more walkable city?

Palermo
Graz

Graz 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 Graz on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

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 Graz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Graz or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Graz?

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

Families should spend more time in Graz than Palermo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Graz, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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


  • How many days in Palermo or Graz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Palermo 1-3 
    Graz 2-3

One day in Palermo or Graz?

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 Graz, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Graz?

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 Graz, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Graz has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Graz?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the colorful 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.

Graz 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 Graz?

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 Graz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Graz. 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Graz or Palermo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Palermo is €92, while the average daily cost in Graz is €112. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Palermo and Graz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palermo 56
    Graz 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palermo 112
    Graz 134
Compare Hotels in Palermo and Graz

Looking for a hotel in Palermo or Graz? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Palermo


Hotels in Graz


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Palermo Hotel Prices and Graz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palermo 5.64
    Graz 18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Palermo

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Palermo:


  • Bus to Monreale
    3.00
  • Bus From Airport
    6.00
  • 90 Minute Bus Pass
    1.30
  • Short Taxi Ride
    4.35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palermo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palermo:

  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Verdura Resort Sciacca or vice versa: $233
  • Transfer from Palermo Airport to Verdura Resort: $214
  • Private Golf Club Class w/ Transfer, Ticket, & Food: $176
  • Palermo Airport (PMO) Departure Transfer (Palermo Hotels or address to Airport): $156
  • Private Transfer Palermo Airport to/from Adler SPA Resort Sicily: $149
  • Private Transfer Trapani or San Vito lo Capo to Palermo Airport by Car or Van: $146
  • Palermo Private Transfer from or to Palermo Airport in Sicily : $137
  • Transfer from Palermo Airport to Palermo: $131
  • Private Transfer from Palermo (PMO) Airport to Santa Flavia: $124
  • Private Transfer Palermo Airport to/from San Vito Lo Capo, Macari: $109
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Marsala port or vice versa: $109
  • Transfers From / to Palermo Airport: $108

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

Also for Graz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58
  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Palermo or Graz?

Prices for flights to both Graz and Palermo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Palermo 29
    Graz 32
Typical Food Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of dining costs in Palermo are as follows:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    32
  • Fast Food Lunch
    5.32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palermo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Palermo.

  • Street Food Tour: $42
  • Street Food Tour: $65
  • Explore Palermo's with a Food Tour & Pizza Making Class: $68
  • Small Group Night Street Food Tour: $68
  • Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class with Dinner and Wine: $74
  • Palermo Traditional Food Tour: $74
  • Palermo's Delight: Unleash the Secrets of Pizza and Gelato Making: $75
  • Night Street Food Tour of Palermo : $75
  • Secret Food Tours Palermo: $85
  • Street Food Tour in Ballarò and Vucciria Markets: $86
  • Walking Street Food Tour with the Chef: $91
  • Sicilian Cooking Class: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palermo 17
    Graz 13
Typical Entertainment Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Palermo are as follows:


  • Capuchin Catacombs (for 2)
    6.00
  • Castello della Zisa Entrance (for Two)
    12
  • Theater Tickets (for Two)
    49

Tours and Activities in Palermo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palermo are as follows:

  • 4 Hours Private Architectural Tour in Palermo: $165
  • Agrigento - Private Tour to the Valley of the Temples from Palermo: $295
  • Agrigento Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale Tour from Palermo: $133
  • Ballaro 'street food market tour & Santa Rosalia Sanctuary: $208
  • Cappella Palatina and Palazzo dei Normanni Tour: $91
  • Captivating Agrigento Sunset Tour of Valle dei Templi: $43
  • Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral Private Tour: $192
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Palermo: $152
  • Discover the Charm of A 3-Hour UNESCO Sites Walking Tour: $38
  • Eating Street Food & Market Tour: $117
  • English or Spanish tour to immersive museum + lunch: $37
  • Entrance ticket to the Radici Piccolo Museo Della Natura: $11

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Kunsthaus Graz Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Graz city tours: $14
  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Guided Tour: Courtyards of Graz: $138
  • Tour with Private Guide: $176
  • Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $191

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palermo 11
    Graz 16
Typical Alcohol Prices in Palermo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Palermo:


  • Beer
    2.56
  • Bottle of Quality Wine
    11

Sample the Local Flavors in Palermo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Palermo:

  • Pub Crawl Palermo: $16
  • Wine Tasting with Snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $41
  • Natural Local Wine Tasting & Sicilian Tapas: $49
  • Natural Wine Tasting with snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $53
  • Eating Palermo Food & Wine Tour: $82
  • 2-Hour Sicilian Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour: $128
  • From Erice and Marsala Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Wine Tasting for Small Groups in the Palermo Countryside: $196


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


Which is Bigger, Palermo or Graz?

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

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 Graz in the Summer?

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

In July, Palermo is generally around the same temperature as Graz. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Graz fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Graz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Graz. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 236 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Graz. Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Graz. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Graz receives 126 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Palermo 25°C (76°F) 
    Graz 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Graz in the Autumn?

Both Graz 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 Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Palermo is much warmer than Graz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Graz 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 Graz during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 139 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Graz. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Graz receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Palermo 20°C (67°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Graz in the Winter?

Both Graz 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 Graz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Graz can be very cold. In the winter, Palermo is much warmer than Graz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Graz averages at about 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Graz. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 95 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets more rain in January than Graz. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Graz receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Palermo 12°C (53°F) 
    Graz 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Graz in the Spring?

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

In April, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Graz. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 15°C (58°F), and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Graz during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Graz. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Graz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Palermo 15°C (58°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Graz and Palermo

Palermo Graz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 42 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 20°C (67°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)