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

Should you visit Palermo or Vienna?

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 Vienna 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Vienna

Vienna is a ritzy, classical, and traditional city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Palermo and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Vienna?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Palermo than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Palermo, Palermo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palermo is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Vienna is known for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Vienna is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral.

How is Palermo different from Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vienna 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 Vienna. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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 Vienna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Palermo and Vienna offer high quality 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 Vienna. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Is Palermo or Vienna Better for Nightlife?

Palermo is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Palermo has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Palermo or Vienna Better for Music?

Vienna is very popular for its music scene. However, Palermo is not a live music destination.

In Vienna you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Palermo is not a live music destination.

Is Palermo or Vienna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vienna 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.

Vienna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Vienna Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a very popular place for the beache. However, Vienna 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.

Vienna is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

Vienna is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Vienna has a world-famous historical area. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Vienna?

Vienna is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Vienna is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Palermo or Vienna Better for Families?

Palermo is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palermo is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Palermo or Vienna Better for Couples?

Vienna is very popular for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Vienna is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

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 Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Vienna are good 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 Vienna. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Palermo or Vienna Better for Students?

Vienna is very popular for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Vienna is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

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 Vienna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vienna is very popular for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Vienna has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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 Vienna a more walkable city?

Vienna 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 Vienna on foot. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Vienna?

In either Palermo or Vienna, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vienna than Palermo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Palermo, and 2-5 days is enough time in Vienna.

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

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

One day in Palermo or Vienna?

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 Vienna, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Vienna?

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.

Vienna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vienna has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Vienna?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun 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 Vienna. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Vienna. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Vienna?

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

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 Vienna in the Summer?

Both Vienna 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 Vienna because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palermo is generally around the same temperature as Vienna. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the summer, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Vienna. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Vienna. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Vienna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Vienna. 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, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vienna this time of year.

Palermo is much warmer than Vienna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Vienna fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives more rain than Vienna. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Vienna in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vienna. In the winter, Palermo is much warmer than Vienna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Vienna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Vienna. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets more rain in January than Vienna. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Vienna in the Spring?

Both Vienna 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 Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 15°C (58°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Vienna. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Palermo