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

Should you visit Taormina or Imperia?

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 Imperia 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Taormina and Imperia: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Taormina or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Taormina. Although Taormina and Imperia are popular destinations, Taormina has more sights and attractions for tourists. Taormina is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. It is also well known for The Greek Theater. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Taormina different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Taormina
Imperia

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Imperia 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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Taormina
Imperia

Taormina is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Taormina is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Taormina or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Taormina
Imperia

Taormina is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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 Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Taormina or Imperia Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Imperia

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

Taormina is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Taormina or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Imperia

Taormina is a popular place for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Taormina is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Imperia?

Taormina
Imperia

If you're looking to go shopping, Taormina and Imperia both offer plenty of nice 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.

Imperia is a great destination for shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Taormina or Imperia Better for Families?

Taormina
Imperia

Imperia is a town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Imperia offers lots of family activities. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. 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.


Is Taormina or Imperia Better for Couples?

Taormina
Imperia

Taormina is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Taormina or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taormina
Imperia

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

Imperia is a good town to visit for backpackers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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 Imperia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Taormina
Imperia

Taormina and Imperia both offer nice 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.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Taormina or Imperia a more walkable city?

Taormina
Imperia

Taormina is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Taormina?

How long in Taormina or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Taormina or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Taormina than Imperia 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 Imperia.

Couples should spend more time in Taormina than Imperia. 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.


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

One day in Taormina or Imperia?

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 town of Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

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


Five days in Taormina or Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 town 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, Imperia 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 Imperia is €108. 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 Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taormina 70
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taormina 140
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Taormina and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Taormina or Imperia? 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 Imperia


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 Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taormina 4.29
    Imperia 36

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Taormina or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia 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
    Imperia 35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taormina 11
    Imperia 13

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 Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taormina 8.57
    Imperia 7.50

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


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


Which is Bigger, Taormina or Imperia?

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Taormina and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Taormina during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Imperia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Taormina is around the same temperature as Imperia in the summer. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Imperia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Taormina. In the summer, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in July than Imperia. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Taormina 27°C (80°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Imperia. Many visitors come to Taormina in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Taormina is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Taormina in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Taormina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during autumn. Taormina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Taormina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Taormina usually receives more rain than Imperia. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Imperia. Most visitors come to Taormina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Imperia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 13°C (55°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Taormina often gets less sunshine than Imperia. Taormina gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Imperia. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Taormina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

Taormina is around the same temperature as Imperia in the spring. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Taormina. Taormina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during spring. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Taormina usually receives less rain than Imperia. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Taormina 16°C (60°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Taormina

Taormina Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)


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