A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Piazza Armerina vs. Como for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Piazza Armerina or Como?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Piazza Armerina and Como. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a charming, authentic, and historic town. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Como

Como is a scenic, trendy, and fun lake area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Piazza Armerina and Como: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Piazza Armerina or Como?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Como. Although Piazza Armerina and Como are both popular with visitors, Como has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Como is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Piazza Armerina is known for its museums and historical sights. Como is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is popular for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also home to the lakeside setting. Piazza Armerina is popular for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Piazza Armerina different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Como and Piazza Armerina. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Piazza Armerina or Como?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Piazza Armerina is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Piazza Armerina can be an interesting and educational experience. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.


Is the Food Better in Piazza Armerina or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Como, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Piazza Armerina or Como Better for Nightlife?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Como is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Como. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Piazza Armerina or Como Better for Beaches?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Como is a good destination for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Como offers a nice beach destination. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.


Is Piazza Armerina or Como Better for its Old Town?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Piazza Armerina is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Piazza Armerina to see the historical old town. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Piazza Armerina or Como Better for Hiking?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Como is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Como is a popular spot for hiking. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Piazza Armerina or Como?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Como make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Piazza Armerina or Como Better for Families?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Como is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Como is a very kid-friendly lake area. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Piazza Armerina or Como Better for Couples?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Como is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Piazza Armerina is a good town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Is Piazza Armerina or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Como is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Como is a great lake area to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.


Is Piazza Armerina or Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Both Piazza Armerina and Como offer good public transit options.

Piazza Armerina has a few public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Piazza Armerina or Como a more walkable city?

Piazza Armerina
Como

Piazza Armerina and Como both are great when exploring on foot.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable town. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

For even more information, also check out Is Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Piazza Armerina?

How long in Piazza Armerina or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Piazza Armerina or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Como due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Piazza Armerina, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Como than Piazza Armerina 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 Como.


  • How many days in Piazza Armerina or Como? Ideal Length of Stay
    Piazza Armerina 1-2 
    Como 2-4

One day in Piazza Armerina or Como?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Piazza Armerina. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The vibrant destination of Como offers food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Piazza Armerina or Como?

Piazza Armerina is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The lake area of Como offers shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Piazza Armerina or Como?

You'll find museums and food around the charming destination of Piazza Armerina. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Como is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This lake area offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Piazza Armerina or Como?

The authentic town of Piazza Armerina offers food and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Como. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy, and The Best Adventure Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Como or Piazza Armerina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Piazza Armerina is €93, while the average daily cost in Como is €214. 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 Piazza Armerina and Como in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Piazza Armerina 56
    Como 146
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Piazza Armerina 112
    Como 292
Compare Hotels in Piazza Armerina and Como

Looking for a hotel in Piazza Armerina or Como? 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 Piazza Armerina


Hotels in Como


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: Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices and Como Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Como 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Como

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

  • Private Transfer from Como to Milan hotels: $53
  • Private Transfer From Lecco or Malgrate: $65
  • Private transfer from Mandello del Lario or Abbadia Lariana: $76
  • Bellagio to Malpensa Airport Milan (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $78
  • Private transfer from Lenno or Argegno or Ossuccio: $147
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • Como Private Transfer from Como city centre to Milan Malpensa Airport: $221
  • Argegno: Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $235
  • Private Transfer: Lake Como to Milan Airport MXP in Luxury Van: $236
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243

Is it cheaper to fly into Piazza Armerina or Como?

Prices for flights to both Como and Piazza Armerina 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
    Piazza Armerina 33
    Como 60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Como

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

  • COOKING, EATING, LOVING - Lasagna cooking Class for everyone!: $45
  • Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling: $49
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lentate Verbano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lake Como Food Tour - Eat like a real Local: $108
  • Tour and historical dinner: Lake Como 1690: $131
  • Como Food Tour and the Farmers Market: $139
  • Homemade Pasta Cooking Class: $160
  • Como Area: Pizza Training Experience: $160
  • Pizza Training Experience. Como Area: $163
  • Lecco Bike Tour & Pizza Lunch: $163
  • Private Market Tour & Lunch or Dinner with a Local: $171
  • Como Food Tour: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Como -

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

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

  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241
  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225

Tours and Activities in Como

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

  • Agra Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Como: $8.71
  • Como Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Como Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.94
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • Self-Guided Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • Lake Self-Guided Walking Tour - Downtown Como: $21
  • Como City Audio Guide and Skip The Ticket Line to Brunate: $22
  • Como City Walking Tour : $27
  • City Tour with Duomo Visit and First Basin Lake Cruise: $32
  • Guided City Walking Tour: $32
  • 90minutes Tea Preparation and Tasting Experience in Como: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Piazza Armerina 13
    Como -

Sample the Local Flavors in Como

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

  • Domaso: Wine Tasting at the Winery on Como Lake: $60
  • Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake: $70
  • Lake Food and Wine tour in Colico: $114
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $135
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bellagio with Chef Luigi Gandola: $185
  • Food and Wine Tours Lake Como: $196


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Piazza Armerina and Como, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como than you might in Piazza Armerina.

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


Which is Bigger, Piazza Armerina or Como?

Como has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Piazza Armerina and Como, 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 Piazza Armerina or Como?

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 Piazza Armerina or Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Piazza Armerina during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Piazza Armerina in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Como. Typically, the summer temperatures in Piazza Armerina in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Como averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Como, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Piazza Armerina. In the summer, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Como. Piazza Armerina gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in July than Como. Piazza Armerina gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F) 
    Como 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Piazza Armerina and Como. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Como because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Piazza Armerina is generally a little warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 19°C (67°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Como during autumn. Piazza Armerina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Como receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Como. Piazza Armerina gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F) 
    Como 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Como in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Piazza Armerina as well as Como. The winter months attract visitors to Piazza Armerina because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Como this time of year.

It's quite cold in Como in the winter. Piazza Armerina is much warmer than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Como. Piazza Armerina gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in January than Como. Piazza Armerina gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F) 
    Como 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Como. Typically, the spring temperatures in Piazza Armerina in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Como averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Piazza Armerina. Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Como during spring. Piazza Armerina gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Como. Piazza Armerina gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F) 
    Como 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Como and Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina Como
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)