A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Positano vs. Bergamo for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Positano or Bergamo?

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 Positano and Bergamo. 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.

Positano

Positano is a charming, picturesque, and colorful Mediterranean village. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Bergamo

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

Positano and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Positano or Bergamo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Positano. Although Positano and Bergamo are both popular with visitors, Positano has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Positano is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bergamo is known for its museums and nightlife. Positano is more touristy than Bergamo and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also home to The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Positano different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bergamo is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Positano is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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.

Is Positano or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Bergamo is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Bergamo has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Positano or Bergamo Better for Resorts?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its resorts. However, Bergamo is not a resort destination.

Positano offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Bergamo is not a resort destination.

Is Positano or Bergamo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a moderate Mediterranean village for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bergamo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Bergamo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Positano or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

Positano is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Positano has a beach worth visiting. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Is Positano or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its old town. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Positano offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

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.

Is Positano or Bergamo Better for Hiking?

Positano is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergamo is not a hiking destination.

Positano is a popular spot for hiking. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Bergamo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Positano or Bergamo?

Positano is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Positano is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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.

Is Positano or Bergamo Better for Families?

Positano is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

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 Positano or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Positano has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

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

Is Positano or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Positano and Bergamo are good places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Positano or Bergamo Better for Students?

Bergamo is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Bergamo. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Positano and Bergamo both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Positano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Bergamo has a few public transit options. 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 Positano or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village 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 Positano on foot. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting? and Is Bergamo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Positano?

How long in Positano or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Positano and Bergamo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Bergamo. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Positano, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

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

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

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

One day in Positano or Bergamo?

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This Mediterranean village offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Bergamo offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Positano or Bergamo?

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer.

Bergamo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bergamo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Positano or Bergamo?

Positano 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 Positano has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bergamo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Positano or Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Bergamo is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Positano or Bergamo?

Bergamo has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Positano and Bergamo, 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 Positano 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 Positano or Bergamo in the Summer?

Both Bergamo and Positano during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Positano in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bergamo for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

In Bergamo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Positano. In the summer, Positano often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Positano gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Positano or Bergamo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Positano and Bergamo. Most visitors come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bergamo because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

Bergamo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Positano usually receives more rain than Bergamo. Positano gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Positano or Bergamo in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Bergamo in the winter. In the winter, Positano is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Positano in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

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

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

Should I visit Positano or Bergamo in the Spring?

Both Bergamo and Positano are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Positano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bergamo for the natural beauty.

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

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

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

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Positano