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

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca or Palermo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a beautiful, stunning, and cultural island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Palermo

Palermo is a diverse, dynamic, and fun city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Palma de Mallorca and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Palma de Mallorca than Palermo. While Palermo is larger than Palma de Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palma de Mallorca is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Palermo is more popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. Also, Palma de Mallorca is famous for the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palermo and Palma de Mallorca. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Palermo offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palermo. 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.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Palma de Mallorca is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

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.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Palermo is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Palma de Mallorca is very popular with diverse venues. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Palermo is not a live music destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Palermo is not a resort destination.

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Palermo is not a resort destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable snorkeling or scuba diving in both Palma de Mallorca and Palermo.

Palma de Mallorca has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

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.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is very popular for the beach. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

Palma de Mallorca is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Many people visit Palermo for it's beautiful 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.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for its Old Town?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Palma de Mallorca offers a nice historic old town area. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca and Palermo are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Palermo is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Couples?

Palma de Mallorca and Palermo are both notable to visit as a couple.

Palma de Mallorca is a nice destination for couples. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Palermo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

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 Palma de Mallorca or Palermo Better for Students?

Palermo is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Palma de Mallorca has a few public transit options. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to 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 Palma de Mallorca or Palermo a more walkable city?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting? and Is Palermo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palma de Mallorca and Palermo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than in Palermo. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 1-3 days is enough time in Palermo.

Families should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Palermo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Palma de Mallorca, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Palermo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Palma de Mallorca that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Palermo, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums and nightlife around the dynamic city of Palermo, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palma de Mallorca has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dynamic destination of Palermo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palma de Mallorca. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Palma de Mallorca. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Palermo is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Palma de Mallorca. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca and Palermo, 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 Palma de Mallorca or Palermo?

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 Palma de Mallorca or Palermo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palma de Mallorca as well as Palermo. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palma de Mallorca is generally around the same temperature as Palermo. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 24°C (76°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. In the summer, Palma de Mallorca often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Palma de Mallorca gets 334 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets more rain in July than Palermo. Palma de Mallorca gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Palermo in the Autumn?

Both Palermo and Palma de Mallorca are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

Palma de Mallorca is around the same temperature as Palermo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palma de Mallorca averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Palermo fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palma de Mallorca. Palma de Mallorca usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during autumn. Palma de Mallorca gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palma de Mallorca usually receives around the same amount of rain as Palermo. Palma de Mallorca gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Palermo in the Winter?

Both Palermo and Palma de Mallorca during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Palermo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Palma de Mallorca is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palma de Mallorca in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Palermo averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Palma de Mallorca often gets more sunshine than Palermo. Palma de Mallorca gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun.

Palma de Mallorca usually gets less rain in January than Palermo. Palma de Mallorca gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palma de Mallorca or Palermo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palma de Mallorca and Palermo. Most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Palermo because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Palma de Mallorca is generally around the same temperature as Palermo. Daily temperatures in Palma de Mallorca average around 14°C (57°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In Palma de Mallorca, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palma de Mallorca usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during spring. Palma de Mallorca gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palma de Mallorca usually receives more rain than Palermo. Palma de Mallorca gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palermo and Palma de Mallorca