A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pamukkale vs. Pompeii for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Pamukkale or Pompeii?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pamukkale and Pompeii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Pamukkale or Pompeii?

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is in southeastern Aegean Turkey and is historically a spa town that has been in existence since the 2nd century BC. It is popular with tourists for its beautiful hot springs and travertines, or pools that are coated in a very unique calcium covering. The area is very rich in mineral content and the water, which has been flowing for thousands of years, has deposited calcium in each pool. This unique whiteness creates an unworldly beauty that draws visitors from around the world. If you're visiting during the summer months when the sun is out in full force, don't forget the sunscreen, as the white reflects the light and you can end up with a sunburn quite quickly. You'll also want to make sure you have sunglasses available because the glare can be quite extreme.

Pompeii

Pompeii was once a 160-acre Roman port city, called home by more than 20,000 residents. In 79 A.D., Mount Vesuvius erupted and after burying the entire city 16 feet deep in ash, the debris destroyed everything in its path, killing thousands of people and affecting more than 200 square miles around the area.

However, the phenomenon is that the ash preserved everything as it was in that time and to this day, you can visit and observe life as it was nearly two thousand years ago, as figures of people running from the explosion have been burned permanently into history.

The best time to visit Pompeii is during spring, after the rains of March and before the scorching heat of June and July. On the downside, this is the beginning of the busy season for tourists, so while you'll enjoy pleasant weather, you won't be likely to avoid crowds. Conversely, November starts the low-season for travel, so you can easily skip the crowds, though you may have to compromise on weather, as the rains return this time of year. Rain and crowds won't be an issue if you visit during winter, but be warned, temperatures drop down to the 50's during the day, accompanied by winds.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pompeii or Pamukkale?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pamukkale is $156, while the average daily cost in Pompeii is $161. 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 Pamukkale and Pompeii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pamukkale $56
    Pompeii $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pamukkale $112
    Pompeii $150
Compare Hotels in Pamukkale and Pompeii

Looking for a hotel in Pamukkale or Pompeii? 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 Pamukkale


Hotels in Pompeii


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: Pamukkale Hotel Prices and Pompeii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pamukkale $35
    Pompeii $57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamukkale

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

  • Transfer from Denizli Airport to Pamukkale Karahayit Hotels: $102
  • Private Denizli Pamukkale Airport Transfer Service: $98
  • Pamukkale to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport-Departure Transfer: $125
  • Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $109
  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon w/Flight Certificates,Champagne Toast & Hotel Transfer: $90
  • Pamukkale - Karahayit Transfer from Denizli Cardak Airport: $100
  • Denizli City Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $136
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels: $81
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Pamukkale Karahayit Hotels: $104
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Denizli City Hotels: $104
  • City of Pamukkale/Denizli: Antalya Airport Private Transfer: $165
  • Antalya; Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Tour with Transfer: $280

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pompeii

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

  • Transfer Private from Ravello to Naples: $239
  • Transfers Ravello - Naples: $207
  • Organic Wine Tasting & Lunch on Vesuvius with Transfer from Pompeii: $132
  • Private transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Private transfer from Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Small Group Pompeii Wine Tasting with Lunch & Transfer Included : $97
  • Transfers from Naples to Sorrento Positano Amalfi Ravello Maiori: $97
  • Transfer from Pompeii to Naples or viceversa: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Pamukkale or Pompeii?

Prices for flights to both Pompeii and Pamukkale 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
    Pamukkale $69
    Pompeii $38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pompeii

For Pompeii, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traditional Neapolitan Dinner in Pompei - Villa Franca - Family Restourant: $38
  • Cooking Class with Italian Mamma in Pompeii: $65
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Pompei: $93
  • Pompei tour with a 2000 years roman dinner: $112
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Pompei: $142
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Pompei: $158
  • Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Pompei: $158
  • Private market tour and cooking class with lunch or dinner in Pompei: $206
  • guided tour of the ruins and cooking class fresh pasta : $272
  • Cooking class: Pasta Experience in Pompei, Italy: $300

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pamukkale $54
    Pompeii $82
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pamukkale

For Pamukkale, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance fees Travertines & Pool
    $2.01

Tours and Activities in Pamukkale

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

  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Tours: $120
  • All-inclusive Private Guided Tour of Pamukkale: $256
  • Antalya: Full-Day Pamukkale Tour: $80
  • Antalya: Pamukkale Guided Tour With Optional Balloon Flight: $37
  • Aphrodisias&Pamukkale Tour with Lunch from Izmir&Kusadasi: $299
  • Best Rates Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Tour : $277
  • Daily Guided Pamukkale Tour included Pick Up from Denizli Airport: $118
  • Daily Guided Pamukkale Tour with Pick up from Hotel in Pamukkale.: $93
  • Daily Pamukkale Guided Tour with extra Red spring enjoyment.: $92
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour from istanbul: $642
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour with Pick up from Denizli Airport : $109
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour with Pick up from Denizli Bus station: $103

Tours and Activities in Pompeii

For Pompeii, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Pompeii Archeological Site Fast Track Entry Ticket : $36
  • Pompeii Day Tour: $97
  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour with Certified Guide in Pompeii: $251
  • 2 Hours Private Tour of Pompeii for Journey Through Time: $196
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Pompeii with an Archaeologist: $272
  • 2 days tour: Pompei & Naples center with underground: $207
  • 2 hours Pompeii Tour with local historian - ticket included: $60
  • 2-hour Private Guided Tour of Pompeii: $272
  • Best of Pompeii - 2 hour Private Tour with Alex: $271
  • Complete Pompeii Skip the Line Tour with Archaeologist Guide: $55
  • Discover Pompeii on this Guided Walking Tour of the Buried City: $63
  • Discover hidden secrets of Pompei on a Private tour with a local: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pamukkale $15
    Pompeii $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Pompeii

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

  • Wine Tasting Tour on the Slopes of Vesuvius: $46
  • Wine Tasting on Mt. Vesuvius: $55
  • Seafood Lunch with Wine Tasting & Tour on a golf cart: $87
  • Guided Tour of Pompeii Ruins with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $98
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting in Pompeii with a Local: $124
  • Pompeii Guided Tour & Horse Riding on Vesuvius with Wine Tasting: $191
  • Pompeii, Herculaneum and scenic drive of the Mt. Vesuvius with wine tasting: $207


When comparing the travel costs between Pamukkale and Pompeii, we can see that Pompeii is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Pamukkale Expensive? and Is Pompeii Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Pamukkale or Pompeii?

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 Pamukkale or Pompeii in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamukkale and Pompeii. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pompeii this time of year.

Pamukkale is a little warmer than Pompeii in the summer. The daily temperature in Pamukkale averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Pompeii fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pompeii this time of the year. In Pamukkale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during summer. Pamukkale gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Pamukkale usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Pamukkale gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pamukkale 28°C (82°F) 
    Pompeii 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pamukkale as well as Pompeii.

In the autumn, Pamukkale is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pamukkale in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Pompeii averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamukkale this time of the year. In the autumn, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Pamukkale gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Pamukkale usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Pamukkale gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pamukkale 19°C (67°F) 
    Pompeii 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Pamukkale are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Pompeii in the winter for the museums.

In January, Pamukkale is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Pamukkale average around 9°C (48°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Pamukkale gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. It's quite rainy in Pamukkale. In January, Pamukkale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pompeii. Pamukkale gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pamukkale 9°C (48°F) 
    Pompeii 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Pamukkale during the spring are popular places to visit.

Pamukkale is a little warmer than Pompeii in the spring. The daily temperature in Pamukkale averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Pamukkale. In the spring, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Pamukkale gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Pamukkale usually gets less rain in April than Pompeii. Pamukkale gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pamukkale 17°C (62°F) 
    Pompeii 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Pamukkale

Pamukkale Pompeii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 21°C (70°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 26°C (78°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 10°C (51°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)