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

Should you visit Palermo or Nantes?

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 Nantes 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 diverse, dynamic, and fun 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.

Nantes

Nantes is a historical, beautiful, and vibrant city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Nantes?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo than Nantes. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palermo is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Nantes attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Palermo is famous for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also well known for The Cathedral. Nantes is famous for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Palermo different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nantes 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 Nantes. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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 Nantes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Many restaurants in Nantes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. 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.

Is Palermo or Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Nantes are high quality 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.

Nantes has a large number of nightlife venues. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Is Palermo or Nantes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nantes is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Nantes is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Nantes Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a very popular place for the beach. However, Nantes is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Palermo. 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Nantes is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Nantes offers a nice historic old town area. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Nantes?

Both Palermo and Nantes are high quality 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 Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Is Palermo or Nantes Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Nantes are high quality 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.

Nantes is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Is Palermo or Nantes Better for Couples?

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

Nantes is a very popular place to visit for couples. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Palermo or Nantes Better for Students?

Palermo and Nantes are both nice 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 Nantes. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

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

Nantes 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 Nantes. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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 Nantes a more walkable city?

Palermo and Nantes both are high quality 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.

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Nantes?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palermo than Nantes 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantes has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Nantes?

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.

Nantes 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 Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse 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 Nantes. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nantes. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Nantes?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Nantes, 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes in the Summer?

Both Nantes and Palermo during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nantes because of the family-friendly experiences.

Palermo is a little warmer than Nantes in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Nantes, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Nantes. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Nantes in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Nantes. The autumn months attract visitors to Palermo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantes this time of year.

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

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Nantes. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Nantes in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Nantes. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Palermo is generally much warmer than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in January than Nantes. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Nantes in the Spring?

Both Nantes and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Nantes in the spring for the natural beauty.

Palermo is a little warmer than Nantes in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Nantes. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nantes and Palermo