A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Piazza Armerina vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Piazza Armerina or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. 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.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a ancient, famous, and iconic archeological site. And you can't forget about the museums.

Piazza Armerina and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Piazza Armerina or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pompeii. Although Piazza Armerina and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Pompeii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pompeii is more popular for its museums and shopping, while Piazza Armerina is known for its food and historical sights. Pompeii is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It is also home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins. Piazza Armerina is popular for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

The Pompeii Archaeological Ruins

How is Piazza Armerina different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Pompeii are among the most recognizable in the world. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Piazza Armerina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

Piazza Armerina is very good for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Piazza Armerina or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Neither Piazza Armerina or Pompeii offer decent nightlife.

People don't go to Piazza Armerina for the nightlife. 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.

Pompeii doesn't offer many options. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Piazza Armerina or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

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

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Piazza Armerina. 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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Piazza Armerina or Pompeii?

Pompeii is not a good place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Piazza Armerina or Pompeii Better for Families?

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

Pompeii is a very kid-friendly archeological site. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii Better for Couples?

Piazza Armerina and Pompeii both good destinations for a couple.

Piazza Armerina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Pompeii is a good town for couples to visit. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

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

Pompeii is a good destination for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

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 Pompeii Better for Students?

Pompeii is a good destination for students. However, Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.

Pompeii is a good archeological site to visit for students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.

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

Both Piazza Armerina and Pompeii 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.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Piazza Armerina or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Pompeii on foot. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Piazza Armerina?

How long in Piazza Armerina or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Piazza Armerina or Pompeii to fill your time. In our opinion, Pompeii has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pompeii than Piazza Armerina. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Piazza Armerina or Pompeii?

In Piazza Armerina, you'll find food and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

The one-of-a-kind destination of Pompeii offers museums. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Piazza Armerina or Pompeii?

In Piazza Armerina, you'll find museums and food. 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 Piazza Armerina has to offer.

The archeological site of Pompeii offers museums. 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 Pompeii?

Piazza Armerina is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This archeological site offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Piazza Armerina or Pompeii?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Piazza Armerina. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Piazza Armerina. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. 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.

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

When is the best time to visit Piazza Armerina or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Piazza Armerina during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Piazza Armerina for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pompeii in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Piazza Armerina in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Pompeii, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Piazza Armerina. In the summer, Piazza Armerina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii. Piazza Armerina gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in July than Pompeii. Piazza Armerina gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Piazza Armerina and Pompeii.

In October, Piazza Armerina is generally a little warmer than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 19°C (67°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Piazza Armerina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii during autumn. Piazza Armerina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Piazza Armerina gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Piazza Armerina as well as Pompeii. Most visitors come to Piazza Armerina for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the museums.

Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Pompeii. Piazza Armerina gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Piazza Armerina gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

In the spring, Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Pompeii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Piazza Armerina in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Pompeii 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 Pompeii during spring. Piazza Armerina gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Piazza Armerina gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Piazza Armerina