A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Palermo or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii 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.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a ancient, famous, and iconic archeological site. Other popular activities here include museums.

Palermo and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Pompeii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo. Although Palermo and Pompeii are popular destinations, Palermo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palermo is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii attracts visitors for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. 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 Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii is very popular 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 many recognizable landmarks that put Pompeii on the map. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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 Pompeii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Palermo or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Palermo has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Palermo or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Palermo is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Pompeii?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Palermo or Pompeii Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Pompeii are superb 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.

Pompeii is a very family-friendly destination. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Palermo or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Palermo or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Pompeii 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 Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Palermo or Pompeii Better for Students?

Palermo and Pompeii 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 Pompeii. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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

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

Pompeii has a few public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

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 Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii on foot. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Pompeii?

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

Families should spend more time in Palermo than Pompeii. 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 Pompeii. 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 Pompeii 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii, you'll find museums. 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 museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

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

When is the best time to visit Palermo or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Palermo during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palermo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Palermo is around the same temperature as Pompeii in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Pompeii fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Pompeii, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Pompeii. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Pompeii. Most visitors come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Palermo is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Pompeii averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Pompeii. The winter months attract visitors to Palermo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums are the main draw to Pompeii this time of year.

In January, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Palermo usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

Palermo is a little warmer than Pompeii in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Pompeii 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 Pompeii during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Palermo