A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Taormina vs. Bergamo for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Taormina or Bergamo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Taormina and Bergamo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Taormina

Taormina is a exclusive, opulent, and historic town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Taormina and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Taormina or Bergamo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Taormina. Although Taormina and Bergamo are both popular with visitors, Taormina has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Taormina is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bergamo is known for its historical sights. Taormina is more touristy than Bergamo and is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. It is also home to The Greek Theater. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Taormina different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Taormina
Bergamo

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Bergamo and Taormina.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Taormina. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

Bergamo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Taormina or Bergamo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Taormina
Bergamo

Both Taormina and Bergamo offer high quality local cuisine and restaurants.

Taormina has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bergamo makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Taormina or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Taormina
Bergamo

Taormina is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Taormina has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

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.

Is Taormina or Bergamo Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Bergamo

Taormina is notable for its resorts. However, Bergamo is not a resort destination.

Taormina is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Bergamo is not a resort destination.


Is Taormina or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Bergamo

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

Taormina has a beach worth visiting. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Is Taormina or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Taormina
Bergamo

Bergamo is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Bergamo?

Taormina
Bergamo

If you're looking to go shopping, Taormina and Bergamo both offer plenty of good spots.

Taormina has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Bergamo is a great destination for shopping. 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 Taormina or Bergamo Better for Families?

Taormina
Bergamo

Neither Taormina nor Bergamo are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

For families, Taormina is not always the best place to visit. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Bergamo is not the most family-friendly destination. 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 Taormina or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Taormina
Bergamo

Taormina is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Taormina is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

Bergamo is a good town 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 Taormina or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taormina
Bergamo

Bergamo is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

Bergamo is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.


Is Taormina or Bergamo Better for Students?

Taormina
Bergamo

Bergamo is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina is not popular with students.

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

Taormina
Bergamo

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

While Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of 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 Taormina or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Taormina
Bergamo

Taormina and Bergamo are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Taormina is a very walkable destination. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Taormina?

How long in Taormina or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Taormina and Bergamo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Taormina than in Bergamo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Taormina, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bergamo than Taormina 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 Taormina or Bergamo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taormina 2-4 
    Bergamo 2-3

One day in Taormina or Bergamo?

Taormina is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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 Taormina or Bergamo?

Taormina 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. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Taormina 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 Taormina or Bergamo?

Taormina is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 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 Taormina or Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. Since Taormina is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 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 Taormina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Taormina is €108, 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 Taormina and Bergamo in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Taormina 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 Taormina


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: Taormina Hotel Prices and Bergamo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taormina 4.29
    Bergamo 32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49
  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergamo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergamo:

  • Bergamo Airport (BGY): Private Transfer to/from Milan: $402
  • MILAN - ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer Luxury: MASERATI: $326
  • Small-Group Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Trieste: $268
  • Private Departure Transfer from central Bergamo to Milan Malpensa airport: $262
  • Milan: ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer in Luxury MINIVAN: $222
  • Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Venice + Water Taxi - Private Transfer: $218
  • Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) to St. Moritz - Round-Trip Transfer: $205
  • Milan: Orio al Serio BGY Airport Transfer SEDAN CAR E CLASS: $181
  • Orio al Serio Airport to Madonna di Campiglio Arrival Transfer: $117
  • Bergamo Airport (BGY) to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Private Transfer from Milan Bergamo Airport to Bergamo hotels : $46
  • Bergamo to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Taormina or Bergamo?

Prices for flights to both Bergamo and Taormina 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
    Taormina 33
    Bergamo 42

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 Lomello 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 Carugo 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 Endine Gaiano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cantù with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Busto Arsizio 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 Cernusco sul Naviglio with Show Cooking: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taormina 11
    Bergamo 33

Tours and Activities in Taormina

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Taormina.

  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Tour di Taormina, Savoca e Forza D' Agro': $139
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • Tour da Messina a Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella: $695
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743

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: $6.55
  • Bergamo Old Town Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $5.35
  • Bergamo Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Bergamo Private Walking Tour: $164
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $8.94
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Bergamo private guided tour: $156
  • Bergamo sightseeings tour. Magic of medieval town.: $273
  • 2.5-Hour Private Tour of the Lower Town: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taormina 8.57
    Bergamo 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

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

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299

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

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


Which is Bigger, Taormina or Bergamo?

Bergamo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Bergamo in the Summer?

Both Bergamo and Taormina during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bergamo because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 27°C (80°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 Taormina. In the summer, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in July than Bergamo. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Taormina 27°C (80°F) 
    Bergamo 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Bergamo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Bergamo. The autumn months attract visitors to Taormina because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bergamo this time of year.

Taormina is a little warmer than Bergamo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Bergamo fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during autumn. Taormina 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. Taormina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Taormina usually receives more rain than Bergamo. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Bergamo 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Bergamo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Bergamo. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Taormina this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bergamo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bergamo. In the winter, Taormina is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Taormina in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

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

Taormina usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bergamo. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Bergamo 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Bergamo in the Spring?

Both Bergamo and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bergamo in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 16°C (60°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Taormina. Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during spring. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Taormina usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Taormina 16°C (60°F) 
    Bergamo 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Taormina

Taormina Bergamo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 14°C (57°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)


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