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

Should you visit Palermo or Toulon?

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 Toulon 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Palermo and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Toulon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Palermo than Toulon. Palermo is bigger than Toulon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Palermo is better known for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Toulon is more popular for its historical sights. Palermo is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral. Toulon is well known for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Palermo different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Toulon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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

Palermo is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palermo makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Palermo or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Palermo or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Is Palermo or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Palermo or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Toulon is a moderate port city for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Toulon is worth visiting. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Toulon?

Both Palermo and Toulon are superb 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 Toulon. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Is Palermo or Toulon Better for Families?

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

Palermo is 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Palermo or Toulon Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Toulon are notable 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.

Toulon is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Palermo or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Toulon are notable 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 Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

Is Palermo or Toulon Better for Students?

Palermo is very good for students. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

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

Toulon has a few public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take 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 Toulon a more walkable city?

Palermo and Toulon both are superb 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.

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Toulon?

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

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

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 Toulon, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon, 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 Toulon has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Toulon?

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.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulon. 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Toulon?

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

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 Toulon in the Summer?

Both Toulon and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Palermo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Palermo is around the same temperature as Toulon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Toulon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Toulon. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon and Palermo during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Toulon because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the autumn, Palermo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Toulon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Toulon. The winter months attract visitors to Palermo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

Palermo is much warmer than Toulon in the winter. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Palermo usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Toulon. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Toulon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Toulon. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Palermo is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Toulon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the spring, Palermo often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Toulon. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Palermo