A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Palermo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Palermo 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a vibrant, historic, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Palermo are both popular with visitors, Palermo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palermo is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) is known for its museums. Thiva (Thebes) is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palermo and Thiva (Thebes). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Thiva (Thebes) is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Palermo know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a great destination for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Palermo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Palermo is a very kid-friendly city. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Palermo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a city with good options for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Palermo is popular with students. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Thiva (Thebes) is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Thiva (Thebes) has a few public transit options. There are local buses in the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Palermo

Palermo is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Palermo is a very walkable city. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Palermo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Thiva (Thebes) and Palermo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palermo than in Thiva (Thebes). Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 1-3 days is enough time in Palermo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Palermo than Thiva (Thebes). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Palermo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palermo than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Palermo.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Palermo 1-3

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

In Thiva (Thebes), you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Palermo, you'll find nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

In Thiva (Thebes), you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Thiva (Thebes) has to offer.

Palermo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

Thiva (Thebes) is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thiva (Thebes). One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Palermo. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Palermo or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Palermo is €92. 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Palermo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Palermo 56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Palermo 112
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Palermo

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo? 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 Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Palermo


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: Palermo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Palermo 5.64

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Palermo

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Palermo:


  • Bus to Monreale
    3.00
  • Bus From Airport
    6.00
  • 90 Minute Bus Pass
    1.30
  • Short Taxi Ride
    4.35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palermo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palermo:

  • Airport Transfer Palermo: $59
  • From Bus Transfer to/from Trapani City Center: $10
  • Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa to Palermo airport, private transfer: $44
  • Grand Hotel Wagner to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $44
  • Palermo Airport (PMO) Departure Transfer (Palermo Hotels or address to Airport): $156
  • Palermo Airport to Palermo city or vice versa, private transfer service: $41
  • Palermo Private Transfer from or to Palermo Airport in Sicily : $137
  • Palermo airport transfer to Grand Hotel et des Palmes: $42
  • 1-Way Bus Transfer to/from Misilmeri: $2.89
  • 1-Way Private Transfer from the Airport: $62
  • Bus Transfer to/from Airport and City Center: $6.42
  • Private Golf Club Class w/ Transfer, Ticket, & Food: $176

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

Prices for flights to both Palermo and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Palermo 29

Typical Food Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of dining costs in Palermo are as follows:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    32
  • Fast Food Lunch
    5.32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palermo

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

  • Street Food Tour: $42
  • Street Food Tour: $65
  • Explore Palermo's with a Food Tour & Pizza Making Class: $68
  • Small Group Night Street Food Tour: $68
  • Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class with Dinner and Wine: $74
  • Palermo Traditional Food Tour: $74
  • Palermo's Delight: Unleash the Secrets of Pizza and Gelato Making: $75
  • Night Street Food Tour of Palermo : $75
  • Secret Food Tours Palermo: $85
  • Street Food Tour in Ballarò and Vucciria Markets: $86
  • Walking Street Food Tour with the Chef: $91
  • Sicilian Cooking Class: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Palermo 17

Typical Entertainment Prices in Palermo

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Palermo are as follows:


  • Capuchin Catacombs (for 2)
    6.00
  • Castello della Zisa Entrance (for Two)
    12
  • Theater Tickets (for Two)
    49

Tours and Activities in Palermo

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • sensorial experience of nature and ecology: $8.56
  • Teatro Massimo Opera House Guided Tour: $11
  • Entrance ticket to the Radici Piccolo Museo Della Natura: $11
  • Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour 24-hour Ticket: $21
  • Fast And Furious Bike Tour in Palermo: $27
  • Palermo storie e segreti: tour tra arte misteri e leggende: $31
  • Panoramic Trip to Mondello by CruiserCar: $32
  • Palermo di sera: tour del centro storico: $32
  • Walking Tour of Historic Markets and Monuments: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Palermo 11

Typical Alcohol Prices in Palermo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Palermo:


  • Beer
    2.56
  • Bottle of Quality Wine
    11

Sample the Local Flavors in Palermo

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

  • Pub Crawl Palermo: $16
  • Wine Tasting with Snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $41
  • Natural Local Wine Tasting & Sicilian Tapas: $49
  • Natural Wine Tasting with snacks at Bottega Monteleone: $53
  • Eating Palermo Food & Wine Tour: $82
  • 2-Hour Sicilian Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour: $128
  • From Erice and Marsala Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Wine Tasting for Small Groups in the Palermo Countryside: $196


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Palermo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Palermo, 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo?

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Palermo. The summer months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Palermo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Palermo averages at about 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more rain than Palermo. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Palermo 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Palermo. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Palermo. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 19°C (67°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Palermo. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Palermo 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo in the Winter?

Both Palermo and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Palermo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Thiva (Thebes) is cooler than Palermo in the winter. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Palermo fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Palermo. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Palermo 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Palermo in the Spring?

Both Palermo and Thiva (Thebes) during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Palermo averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Palermo. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Palermo 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Palermo and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Palermo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (58°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)