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

Should you visit Palermo or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne 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. 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a historic, vibrant, and scenic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Lucerne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo than Lucerne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palermo is very popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Lucerne attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Lucerne is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. 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 Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palermo is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Palermo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Palermo or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Lucerne are very good 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.

Lucerne has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Palermo or Lucerne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Lucerne Better for Beaches?

Palermo is great for the beach. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

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

Lucerne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Lucerne?

Both Palermo and Lucerne 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 Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Palermo or Lucerne Better for Families?

Palermo is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Palermo. 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Palermo or Lucerne Better for Couples?

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

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palermo is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Palermo or Lucerne Better for Students?

Palermo is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around 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 Lucerne a more walkable city?

Palermo is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Lucerne?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palermo than Lucerne 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.

One day in Palermo or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne, 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 Lucerne has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Lucerne?

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.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Lucerne?

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

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 Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Lucerne. 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 Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Palermo is a little warmer than Lucerne in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Lucerne. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Palermo is a little warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Lucerne averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Palermo during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palermo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Palermo is generally much warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in January than Lucerne. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Lucerne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Lucerne. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Palermo is a little warmer than Lucerne in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Palermo