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

Should you visit Taormina or Brescia?

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 Brescia 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 historic, beautiful, and exclusive town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Brescia

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

Taormina and Brescia: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Taormina or Brescia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Taormina than Brescia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Taormina is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Brescia is more popular for its shopping. Taormina is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. Also, Taormina is famous for The Greek Theater. Brescia is well known for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Taormina different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Taormina
Brescia

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Brescia 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.

Brescia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


Is the Food Better in Taormina or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Taormina
Brescia

Both Taormina and Brescia 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, Brescia makes for a great culinary experience. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Taormina or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Taormina
Brescia

Taormina is well known for nightlife. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Taormina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Taormina or Brescia Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Brescia

Taormina is well known for its resorts. However, Brescia 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.

Brescia is not a resort destination.


Is Taormina or Brescia Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Brescia

Taormina is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Brescia 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.

Brescia is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Brescia?

Taormina
Brescia

Brescia is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Brescia. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Taormina is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Taormina or Brescia Better for Families?

Taormina
Brescia

Neither Taormina nor Brescia 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.

Brescia is not the most family-friendly destination. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.


Is Taormina or Brescia Better for Couples?

Taormina
Brescia

Taormina is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Taormina frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.

Is Taormina or Brescia Better for Students?

Taormina
Brescia

Brescia 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 Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Taormina is not popular with students.

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

Taormina
Brescia

Taormina and Brescia both offer notable 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.

Brescia has a few public transit options. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.


Is Taormina or Brescia a more walkable city?

Taormina
Brescia

Taormina is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Taormina?

How long in Taormina or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Taormina or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Taormina than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Taormina, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

Families should spend more time in Taormina than Brescia. 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 Brescia. 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 Brescia 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 Brescia.


  • How many days in Taormina or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taormina 2-4 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Taormina or Brescia?

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 Brescia offers food and shopping. 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 Taormina or Brescia?

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.

Brescia 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 Brescia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Taormina or Brescia?

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.

Brescia 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 Brescia?

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.

Brescia 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, Brescia 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 Brescia is €144. 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 Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taormina 70
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taormina 140
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Taormina and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Taormina or Brescia? 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 Brescia


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 Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taormina 4.29
    Brescia 19

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 Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Taormina or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia 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
    Brescia 47

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

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

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taormina 11
    Brescia 31

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 Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $402
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $223
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114
  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Brescia’s Historic Heart: A Family Exploration Tour: $288
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $386
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $197
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Christmastime Walking Tour: $719
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $118
  • CSTRents - Brescia Segway PT Authorized Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taormina 8.57
    Brescia 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 Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


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


Which is Bigger, Taormina or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Taormina and Brescia, 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 Brescia?

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 Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Brescia. Most visitors come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Brescia because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Taormina is a little warmer than Brescia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Taormina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Brescia averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brescia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Taormina this time of the year. In the summer, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in July than Brescia. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Taormina or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Taormina because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

In October, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 21°C (69°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Taormina. In October, Taormina usually receives more rain than Brescia. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Taormina during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Taormina this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brescia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brescia. Taormina is much warmer than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

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

Taormina usually gets more rain in January than Brescia. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Brescia. Many travelers come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brescia in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Taormina is a little warmer than Brescia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Taormina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Brescia averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during spring. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Taormina usually receives less rain than Brescia. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Brescia and Taormina

Taormina Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)


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