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

Should you visit Positano 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 Positano 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.

Positano

Positano is a luxurious, charming, and picturesque Mediterranean village. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a one-of-a-kind, ancient, and famous archeological site. It's also popular because of the museums.

Positano and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Positano or Pompeii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Positano. Although Positano and Pompeii are popular destinations, Positano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Positano is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pompeii attracts visitors for its museums. Positano is famous for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also well known for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Pompeii is famous for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

How is Positano different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Pompeii has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Positano has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Positano is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Positano. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

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 Positano or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

Positano is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Positano is a perfect choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Positano or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Positano or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Positano is very good for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Positano to enjoy the beach. 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Positano or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Positano is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Positano is one of the most recognized in the world. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is Positano or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

Positano is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Positano. 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Positano or Pompeii?

Positano is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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 Positano or Pompeii Better for Families?

Pompeii is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. 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.

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.

Is Positano or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Positano is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Positano has plenty to offer. 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. 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 Positano or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Positano and Pompeii are nice 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 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.

Is Positano or Pompeii Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to 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.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Positano and Pompeii both offer nice 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.

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

Is Positano or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Positano and Pompeii are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

Positano is a very easy Mediterranean village to get around 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.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Positano?

How long in Positano or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Positano or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Positano than Pompeii because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Positano, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pompeii.

Couples should spend more time in Positano than Pompeii. 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 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 Positano.

One day in Positano or Pompeii?

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 archeological site of Pompeii offers museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Positano or Pompeii?

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.

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

Five days in Positano or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archeological site 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 Pompeii, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Pompeii much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pompeii would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pompeii 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 Pompeii.

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

When is the best time to visit Positano 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 Positano or Pompeii in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Positano and Pompeii. Many travelers come to Positano for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Pompeii in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Positano is around the same temperature as Pompeii in the summer. The daily temperature in Positano averages around 23°C (74°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 Positano, it's very sunny this time of the year. Positano usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii during summer. Positano gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Positano usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pompeii. Positano gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Positano or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Positano as well as Pompeii. Many visitors come to Positano in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Positano is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Positano in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Pompeii averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Positano often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii. Positano gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Positano receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Positano usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pompeii. Positano gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Positano or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Positano are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Positano for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the museums.

In January, Positano is generally around the same temperature as Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Positano average around 8°C (47°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Positano usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii during winter. Positano gets 115 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 Positano. In January, Positano usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pompeii. Positano gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Positano or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Positano during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Positano because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Positano is around the same temperature as Pompeii in the spring. The daily temperature in Positano averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Positano often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii. Positano gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Positano usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Pompeii. Positano gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Positano