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

Should you visit Pompeii or Bergamo?

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 Pompeii and Bergamo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pompeii

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

Bergamo

Bergamo is a historical, fascinating, and beautiful city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Pompeii and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Pompeii or Bergamo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pompeii. Although Pompeii and Bergamo are both popular with visitors, Pompeii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pompeii is more popular for its museums, while Bergamo is known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Pompeii is more touristy than Bergamo 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. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
The Pompeii Archaeological Ruins

How is Pompeii different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pompeii or Bergamo?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Pompeii is an amazing archeological site to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergamo. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.


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

Pompeii
Bergamo

Bergamo is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Bergamo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

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 Pompeii or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Bergamo is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. 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 Pompeii or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Bergamo is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Bergamo has an old town worth visiting. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Pompeii or Bergamo?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Bergamo is very good for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Bergamo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

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.

Is Pompeii or Bergamo Better for Families?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Pompeii is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city 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.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.

Is Pompeii or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Both Pompeii and Bergamo are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Pompeii is a good archeological site 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.

Bergamo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.


Is Pompeii or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Pompeii and Bergamo are both good destinations for backpackers.

Pompeii is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bergamo. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Pompeii or Bergamo Better for Students?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Both Pompeii and Bergamo are good destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Pompeii. 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.

Bergamo is popular with students. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

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

Pompeii
Bergamo

Visitors will find good public transit in both Pompeii and Bergamo.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Bergamo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.


Is Pompeii or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Pompeii
Bergamo

Pompeii is an amazing archeological site to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Bergamo is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Pompeii?

How long in Pompeii or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pompeii and Bergamo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bergamo than in Pompeii. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Pompeii, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

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

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


  • How many days in Pompeii or Bergamo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pompeii 1-2 
    Bergamo 2-3

One day in Pompeii or Bergamo?

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bergamo, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Pompeii or Bergamo?

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer.

In Bergamo, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bergamo has to offer.


Five days in Pompeii or Bergamo?

Pompeii is a great place to explore. 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.

Bergamo is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Pompeii or Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pompeii. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergamo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bergamo. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bergamo or Pompeii?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pompeii is €151, while the average daily cost in Bergamo is €155. 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 Pompeii and Bergamo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pompeii 70
    Bergamo 83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pompeii 140
    Bergamo 166
Compare Hotels in Pompeii and Bergamo

Looking for a hotel in Pompeii or Bergamo? 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 Pompeii


Hotels in Bergamo


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: Pompeii Hotel Prices and Bergamo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pompeii 54
    Bergamo 32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pompeii

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergamo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergamo:

  • Venice, piazzale Roma to Bergamo Airport(BGY)- Departure Transfer: $167
  • Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Koper: $256
  • Small-Group Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Trieste: $267
  • Private Departure Transfer from central Bergamo to Milan Malpensa airport: $262
  • Orio al Serio Airport to Madonna di Campiglio Arrival Transfer: $117
  • Milan: Orio al Serio BGY Airport Transfer SEDAN CAR E CLASS: $181
  • Milan: ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer in Luxury MINIVAN: $222
  • Milan Private Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Milan City centre: $234
  • Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) to St. Moritz - Round-Trip Transfer: $205
  • Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Venice + Water Taxi - Private Transfer: $218
  • MILAN - ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer Luxury: MASERATI: $326
  • Private Transfer to/from Crespi d'Adda UNESCO Site: $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Pompeii or Bergamo?

Prices for flights to both Bergamo and Pompeii 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
    Pompeii 35
    Bergamo 42

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergamo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bergamo.

  • Authentic Taste at the Table Family Recipes Cooking Class: $82
  • Tricolor Pasta Cooking Class with a Chef in Como countryside: $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cantù with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Passirano with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Guardamiglio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Ranica with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Busto Arsizio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casorezzo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cernusco sul Naviglio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lomello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Carugo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Endine Gaiano with Show Cooking: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pompeii 77
    Bergamo 33

Tours and Activities in Pompeii

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

  • The Rise, Fall, and Rediscovery of A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Pompeii Express 1 hour Guided Tour: $21
  • Pompeii Ticket with Optional Guided Tour: $31
  • PompeiI VIP: Guided Tour with your Archaeologist in a Small Group : $32
  • Pompeii for kids or adults skip the line small group walking tour 2 hours: $33
  • Entrance ticket to the Valle dell'Orso Water Park: $33
  • Pompeii Skip the Line ticket + Audioguide: $35
  • Pompeii Archeological Site Fast Track Entry Ticket : $36
  • Pompeii Tour with experienced guide: $38
  • Pompeii tour with archaeologist: $38
  • guided tour of the archaeological excavations of Pompeii: $38
  • Semi-Private Tour of Pompeii Ruins: $41

Tours and Activities in Bergamo

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

  • 2.5-hour Private Bergamo Walking Tour: $120
  • Bergamo : Highlights Private Walking Tour: $70
  • Bergamo : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $49
  • Bergamo Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Bergamo Old Town Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $5.35
  • Bergamo Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Bergamo Private Walking Tour: $163
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $8.94
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Bergamo private guided tour: $155
  • 2.5-Hour Private Tour of the Lower Town: $118
  • 2.5-Hour Private Upper Town Tour: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pompeii 7.31
    Bergamo 23

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Bergamo

Also in Bergamo, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Food and Wine tasting of Valtenesi and Lugana: $46
  • Lake Como: Wellness Spa experience with wine tasting : $163


When comparing the travel costs between Pompeii and Bergamo, we can see that Bergamo 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Bergamo Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Pompeii or Bergamo?

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 Pompeii or Bergamo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Bergamo. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pompeii this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bergamo for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pompeii is generally around the same temperature as Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 23°C (74°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bergamo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pompeii this time of the year. In the summer, Pompeii often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Pompeii gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun.

Pompeii usually gets less rain in July than Bergamo. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pompeii 23°C (74°F) 
    Bergamo 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Pompeii or Bergamo in the Autumn?

Both Bergamo and Pompeii are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Bergamo in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Pompeii is a little warmer than Bergamo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Bergamo fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Pompeii usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during autumn. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergamo. It's quite rainy in Pompeii. In October, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Bergamo. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pompeii 17°C (63°F) 
    Bergamo 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Pompeii or Bergamo in the Winter?

Both Bergamo and Pompeii during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pompeii in the winter for the museums. Also, most visitors come to Bergamo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bergamo can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Pompeii is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pompeii in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Pompeii often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Pompeii gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 98 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. Pompeii usually gets more rain in January than Bergamo. Pompeii gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pompeii 8°C (47°F) 
    Bergamo 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Pompeii or Bergamo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Bergamo. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bergamo because of the natural beauty.

In April, Pompeii is generally around the same temperature as Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 13°C (55°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Pompeii usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during spring. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pompeii usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bergamo. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pompeii 13°C (55°F) 
    Bergamo 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Pompeii

Pompeii Bergamo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 9°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 24°C (75°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)