A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Imperia for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Palermo or Imperia?

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 Imperia 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Imperia: 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
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Palermo or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo. Although Palermo and Imperia are popular destinations, Palermo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palermo is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also well known for The Cathedral. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Palermo different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Palermo
Imperia

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

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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Palermo
Imperia

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Palermo or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Palermo
Imperia

Palermo is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Palermo has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Palermo or Imperia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo
Imperia

Palermo is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Palermo or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Palermo
Imperia

Palermo is notable for the beach. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Imperia?

Palermo
Imperia

Palermo is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Palermo or Imperia Better for Families?

Palermo
Imperia

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

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.

Imperia is a family-friendly city. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.


Is Palermo or Imperia Better for Couples?

Palermo
Imperia

Both Palermo and Imperia are nice 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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Palermo or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palermo
Imperia

Both Palermo and Imperia are nice 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 Imperia. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Palermo or Imperia Better for Students?

Palermo
Imperia

Palermo is a popular place for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

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.

Imperia is not popular with students.


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

Palermo
Imperia

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

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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 Imperia a more walkable city?

Palermo
Imperia

Palermo is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Palermo or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Palermo than Imperia 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 Imperia.

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


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

One day in Palermo or Imperia?

In Palermo, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

In Imperia, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Imperia?

In Palermo, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palermo has to offer.

In Imperia, 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 Imperia has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Imperia?

Palermo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Imperia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Imperia. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia 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 Imperia is €108. 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 Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palermo 56
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palermo 112
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Palermo and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Palermo or Imperia? 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 Imperia


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 Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palermo 5.64
    Imperia 36
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:

  • 1-Way Bus Transfer to/from Misilmeri: $2.89
  • Bus Transfer to/from Airport and City Center: $6.42
  • From Bus Transfer to/from Trapani City Center: $10
  • Private Transfer from Palermo Airport (PMO) to Palermo Port: $33
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Hotel Tonic or vice versa: $37
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Bio Hotel Palermo or vice versa: $37
  • Quintocanto Hotel & Spa to Palermo Airport, Private Transfer: $37
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Palazzo Brunaccini or vice versa: $37
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to ibis Styles hotel or vice versa: $37
  • Palermo Airport to Palermo city or vice versa, private transfer service: $41
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to NH Palermo Hotel or vice versa: $42
  • Palermo airport transfer to Grand Hotel et des Palmes: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Palermo or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia 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
    Imperia 35
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
    Imperia 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:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • sensorial experience of nature and ecology: $8.56
  • Teatro Massimo Opera House Guided Tour: $11
  • Entrance ticket to the Radici Piccolo Museo Della Natura: $11
  • Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour 24-hour Ticket: $21
  • Fast And Furious Bike Tour in Palermo: $27
  • Palermo storie e segreti: tour tra arte misteri e leggende: $31
  • Panoramic Trip to Mondello by CruiserCar: $32
  • Palermo di sera: tour del centro storico: $32
  • Walking Tour of Historic Markets and Monuments: $32

Tours and Activities in Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palermo 11
    Imperia 7.50
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 Imperia, we can see that Imperia 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 Imperia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Imperia 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 Imperia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Palermo or Imperia?

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

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 Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Imperia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Imperia. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Palermo 25°C (76°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Palermo during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Palermo is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Imperia. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Palermo 20°C (67°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Imperia. Most visitors come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Imperia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Palermo is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Palermo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Imperia. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Palermo 12°C (53°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Imperia. The spring months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

Palermo is around the same temperature as Imperia in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°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 Imperia. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Imperia. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Palermo 15°C (58°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Palermo

Palermo Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 42 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 20°C (67°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)