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

Should you visit Palermo or Pamplona?

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 Pamplona 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a elegant, laid-back, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Palermo and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Pamplona?

Both Pamplona and Palermo have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Palermo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pamplona is known for its historical sights and hiking. Pamplona is more touristy than Palermo and is known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

How is Palermo different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Pamplona is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Both Palermo and Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Pamplona 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.

Pamplona has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Pamplona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a well-known place for the beache. However, Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

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

Pamplona offers a nice historic old town area. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Pamplona is a popular spot for hiking. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Pamplona?

Palermo is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Palermo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for Families?

Palermo is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Palermo is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Pamplona is a family-friendly city. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Pamplona are good 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.

Pamplona is a nice destination for couples. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamplona is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pamplona is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

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.

Is Palermo or Pamplona Better for Students?

Palermo and Pamplona are both good 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 Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

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

Pamplona 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.

Pamplona has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system 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 Pamplona a more walkable city?

Palermo and Pamplona both are excellent 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.

Pamplona is very walkable. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Pamplona?

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

Families should spend more time in Palermo than Pamplona. 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.

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

One day in Palermo or Pamplona?

The city of Palermo offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Pamplona, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Pamplona?

Palermo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Palermo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Pamplona, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pamplona has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Pamplona?

Palermo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

A week in Palermo or Pamplona?

Palermo is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pamplona. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Pamplona?

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

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

Both Pamplona 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 Pamplona in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Pamplona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona 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. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

Palermo is a little warmer than Pamplona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Pamplona fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Pamplona in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Palermo is a little warmer than Pamplona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Pamplona averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Pamplona in the Spring?

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

In April, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 15°C (58°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°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 Pamplona. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Palermo