A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Palermo vs. Urbino for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Palermo or Urbino?

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 Urbino 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.

Urbino

Urbino is a undiscovered, authentic, and laid back town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Urbino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Palermo or Urbino?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo. Although Palermo and Urbino are popular destinations, Palermo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palermo is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Urbino attracts visitors for its 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. Urbino is famous for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Palermo different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Palermo
Urbino

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

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.

Urbino is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


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

Palermo
Urbino

Both Palermo and Urbino offer great 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 Urbino. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

Is Palermo or Urbino Better for Nightlife?

Palermo
Urbino

Palermo is great for its evening party scene. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Many people head to Palermo for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Palermo or Urbino Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo
Urbino

Palermo is a city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Urbino is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Urbino is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Palermo or Urbino Better for Beaches?

Palermo
Urbino

Palermo is great for the beach. However, Urbino is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. 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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Palermo
Urbino

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

Urbino offers a nice historic old town area. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Urbino?

Palermo
Urbino

Palermo is great for its shopping areas. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Urbino is a great destination for shopping. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.


Is Palermo or Urbino Better for Families?

Palermo
Urbino

Palermo is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Is Palermo or Urbino Better for Couples?

Palermo
Urbino

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

Urbino is a very popular place to visit for couples. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

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 Urbino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palermo
Urbino

Palermo is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.


Is Palermo or Urbino Better for Students?

Palermo
Urbino

Urbino is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Urbino. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

Plenty of students 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.

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

Palermo
Urbino

Both Palermo and Urbino offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

Is Palermo or Urbino a more walkable city?

Palermo
Urbino

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

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

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Urbino or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Urbino?

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

Families should spend more time in Palermo than Urbino. 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 Palermo than Urbino 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.


  • How many days in Palermo or Urbino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Palermo 1-3 
    Urbino 1-2

One day in Palermo or Urbino?

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 Urbino, you'll find nightlife and food. This town 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 Urbino?

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 Urbino, 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 Urbino has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Urbino?

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.

Urbino 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 Urbino?

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 Urbino. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Urbino. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Urbino or Palermo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Palermo is €92, while the average daily cost in Urbino is €118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Palermo and Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palermo 56
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palermo 112
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Palermo and Urbino

Looking for a hotel in Palermo or Urbino? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Palermo


Hotels in Urbino


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Palermo Hotel Prices and Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palermo 5.64
    Urbino 44
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Palermo

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Palermo:


  • Bus to Monreale
    3.00
  • Bus From Airport
    6.00
  • 90 Minute Bus Pass
    1.30
  • Short Taxi Ride
    4.35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palermo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palermo:

  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Verdura Resort Sciacca or vice versa: $233
  • Transfer from Palermo Airport to Verdura Resort: $214
  • Private Golf Club Class w/ Transfer, Ticket, & Food: $176
  • Palermo Airport (PMO) Departure Transfer (Palermo Hotels or address to Airport): $156
  • Private Transfer Palermo Airport to/from Adler SPA Resort Sicily: $149
  • Private Transfer Trapani or San Vito lo Capo to Palermo Airport by Car or Van: $146
  • Palermo Private Transfer from or to Palermo Airport in Sicily : $137
  • Transfer from Palermo Airport to Palermo: $131
  • Private Transfer from Palermo (PMO) Airport to Santa Flavia: $124
  • Private Transfer Palermo Airport to/from San Vito Lo Capo, Macari: $109
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Marsala port or vice versa: $109
  • Transfers From / to Palermo Airport: $108

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

Also for Urbino, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Palermo or Urbino?

Prices for flights to both Urbino and Palermo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Palermo 29
    Urbino 39
Typical Food Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of dining costs in Palermo are as follows:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    32
  • Fast Food Lunch
    5.32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palermo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Palermo.

  • Street Food Tour: $42
  • Street Food Tour: $65
  • Explore Palermo's with a Food Tour & Pizza Making Class: $68
  • Small Group Night Street Food Tour: $68
  • Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class with Dinner and Wine: $74
  • Palermo Traditional Food Tour: $74
  • Palermo's Delight: Unleash the Secrets of Pizza and Gelato Making: $75
  • Night Street Food Tour of Palermo : $75
  • Secret Food Tours Palermo: $85
  • Street Food Tour in Ballarò and Vucciria Markets: $86
  • Walking Street Food Tour with the Chef: $91
  • Sicilian Cooking Class: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palermo 17
    Urbino 15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Palermo are as follows:


  • Capuchin Catacombs (for 2)
    6.00
  • Castello della Zisa Entrance (for Two)
    12
  • Theater Tickets (for Two)
    49

Tours and Activities in Palermo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palermo are as follows:

  • 4 Hours Private Architectural Tour in Palermo: $165
  • Agrigento - Private Tour to the Valley of the Temples from Palermo: $295
  • Agrigento Valley of the Temples and Villa Romana del Casale Tour from Palermo: $133
  • Ballaro 'street food market tour & Santa Rosalia Sanctuary: $208
  • Cappella Palatina and Palazzo dei Normanni Tour: $91
  • Captivating Agrigento Sunset Tour of Valle dei Templi: $43
  • Capuchin Catacombs and Monreale Cathedral Private Tour: $192
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Palermo: $152
  • Discover the Charm of A 3-Hour UNESCO Sites Walking Tour: $38
  • Eating Street Food & Market Tour: $117
  • English or Spanish tour to immersive museum + lunch: $37
  • Entrance ticket to the Radici Piccolo Museo Della Natura: $11

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour with certified guide: $139
  • Private Walking Tour with Ducal Palace Ticket: $150
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palermo 11
    Urbino 14
Typical Alcohol Prices in Palermo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Palermo:


  • Beer
    2.56
  • Bottle of Quality Wine
    11

Sample the Local Flavors in Palermo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Palermo:

  • Pub Crawl Palermo: $16
  • Wine Tasting with Snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $41
  • Natural Local Wine Tasting & Sicilian Tapas: $49
  • Natural Wine Tasting with snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $53
  • Eating Palermo Food & Wine Tour: $82
  • 2-Hour Sicilian Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour: $128
  • From Erice and Marsala Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Wine Tasting for Small Groups in the Palermo Countryside: $196


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


Which is Bigger, Palermo or Urbino?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Urbino. When comparing the sizes of Palermo and Urbino, 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 Urbino?

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 Urbino in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Urbino. The summer months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Urbino this time of year.

Palermo is around the same temperature as Urbino in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Urbino fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Urbino. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Palermo 25°C (76°F) 
    Urbino 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Urbino in the Autumn?

Both Urbino and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Urbino for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Palermo is a little warmer than Urbino. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Urbino averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Urbino. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Palermo 20°C (67°F) 
    Urbino 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Urbino in the Winter?

Both Urbino and Palermo during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Urbino in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Urbino can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Palermo is generally much warmer than Urbino. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Urbino fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Palermo usually gets more rain in January than Urbino. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Palermo 12°C (53°F) 
    Urbino 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Palermo or Urbino in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Urbino. Many visitors come to Palermo in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Urbino for the natural beauty during these months.

Palermo is a little warmer than Urbino in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Urbino fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Urbino. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Palermo 15°C (58°F) 
    Urbino 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Urbino and Palermo

Palermo Urbino
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 42 mm (1.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 20°C (67°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)