A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Urbino vs. Positano for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Urbino or Positano?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Urbino and Positano 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.

Urbino

Urbino is a historic, undiscovered, and authentic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a picturesque, colorful, and stunning Mediterranean village. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Urbino and Positano: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Urbino or Positano?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Positano. Although Urbino and Positano are popular destinations, Positano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Positano is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Urbino attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Positano is more touristy than Urbino and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also well known for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Urbino is famous for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Urbino different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Urbino or Positano?

Urbino
Positano

Urbino is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Urbino. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Urbino
Positano

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Positano have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Urbino makes for a great culinary experience. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

Is Urbino or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Urbino
Positano

Urbino is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Urbino has a few options to choose from. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Urbino or Positano Better for Resorts?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Urbino is not a resort destination.

Positano is a world class resort vacation destination. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Urbino is not a resort destination.


Is Urbino or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Urbino is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Urbino is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Urbino or Positano Better for Beaches?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is a Mediterranean village with good options for the beach. However, Urbino is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Positano. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Urbino is not a beach destination.

Is Urbino or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town.

Positano offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Many visitors go to Urbino to see the historical old town. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.


Is Urbino or Positano Better for Hiking?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is great for hiking. However, Urbino is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Positano for the hiking trails. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Urbino is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Urbino or Positano?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is great for its shopping areas. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

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

Urbino is a great destination for shopping. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

Is Urbino or Positano Better for Families?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is a Mediterranean village with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Positano offers lots of family activities. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.


Is Urbino or Positano Better for Couples?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for couples. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Positano is a great Mediterranean village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Urbino is a very popular place to visit for couples. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

Is Urbino or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is a Mediterranean village with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination for backpackers.

Positano is a good Mediterranean village to visit for backpackers. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

Is Urbino or Positano Better for Students?

Urbino
Positano

Urbino is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano is not popular with students.

Many students visit Urbino. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

Positano is not popular with students.


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

Urbino
Positano

Positano is a Mediterranean village with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Positano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

Is Urbino or Positano a more walkable city?

Urbino
Positano

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Positano is a very easy Mediterranean village to get around on foot. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Urbino?

How long in Urbino or Positano?

Both Urbino and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Urbino. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Urbino, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Positano than Urbino if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Positano.


  • How many days in Urbino or Positano? Ideal Length of Stay
    Urbino 1-2 
    Positano 2-7

One day in Urbino or Positano?

The beautiful town of Urbino 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.

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Urbino or Positano?

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

Positano is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Urbino or Positano?

Urbino 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Urbino or Positano?

Urbino 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.

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. This Mediterranean village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Positano or Urbino?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Urbino is €118, while the average daily cost in Positano is €222. 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 Urbino and Positano in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Urbino 53
    Positano 148
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Urbino 106
    Positano 296
Compare Hotels in Urbino and Positano

Looking for a hotel in Urbino or Positano? 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 Urbino


Hotels in Positano


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: Urbino Hotel Prices and Positano Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Urbino 44
    Positano 7.73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Positano

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


  • Bus Ticket
    1.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Positano

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

  • Private Transfer to/from Rome & Pompeii Ruins: $839
  • From Sorrento & Pompeii Private Tour w/ Transfers: $642
  • Private Transfer from Positano to Naples Airport, Port or Train station: $288
  • Private Transfer from Positano to Naples Airport: $283
  • Transfer Naples - Positano: $273
  • From Salerno Station: 1-Way Private Transfer to Positano: $266
  • Private Transfer from Positano to Naples Central Station: $262
  • From the Coast: Pompeii the Real All Inclusive Service(Guide,Transfer,Ticket): $257
  • Transfer from Naples to Positano or Positano to Naples : $240
  • Positano to Fiumicino Rome Airport (FCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $224
  • Private Transfer to Naples with WiFi: $214
  • Transfers Positano - Naples: $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Urbino or Positano?

Prices for flights to both Positano and Urbino 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
    Urbino 39
    Positano 53

Typical Food Prices in Positano

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Positano:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    31
  • Pizza in a Restaurant
    9.32
  • Sandwich in a Restaurant
    12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Positano

For Positano, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Gastronomical Amalfi Coast Hike with Cooking Class: $45
  • Cooking class with Pasta, mozzarella and Tiramisu with wine: $64
  • Cooking lesson: tagliatelle, mozzarella and tiramisu: $76
  • Amalfi Coast Cooking Class: Pasta Mozzarella & Tiramisu with Wine: $88
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sant'Agnello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Sorrento Pizza School Activity in Italy: $98
  • Small Group Positano Cooking Class Gnocchi Tiramisù with Drinks : $147
  • Lemon & sea food cooking class at local's home: $169
  • Small Group Home Cooking Class with a Local: $191
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $191
  • Cesarine: Small group Pizza and Tiramisu Class in Positano: $195
  • Vico Equense: Market Tour, Home Cooking Class, and Dinner: $202

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Urbino 15
    Positano 60

Tours and Activities in Urbino

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

  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • From Montefeltro Tour with Truffle Lunch: $396
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • San Marino: Food Tasting Tour: $195

Typical Entertainment Prices in Positano

For Positano, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Chair & Umbrella at Spiaggia Grande
    17
  • Day Trip of Capri & Amalfi
    80
  • Sunset Cruise
    24
  • Full Day Wine Tour
    97
  • Cooking Class
    65

Tours and Activities in Positano

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

  • Guided Tour Pompeii And Vesuvius from Positano Skip the Line: $299
  • Amalfi Coast Luxury Private Experience in Motor Boat: $1,572
  • Amalfi Coast Premium Boat Tour From Sorrento Max 8 People: $245
  • Amalfi Coast Private Half Day Tour from Positano/Praiano: $1,357
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: $294
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: secret caves and stunning beaches: $2,139
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: secret caves and stunning beaches: $1,283
  • Amalfi Coast: Path of the Gods Private Walking Tour: $134
  • Amalfi Coast: Pompei & Vesuvius small group with Skip the line tickets: $147
  • Amalfi Coast: Romantic Sunset Cruise with Music & Cocktails: $160
  • Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour: $209
  • Breathtaking Journey on the Path of Gods: Tour from Positano: $2,055

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Urbino 14
    Positano 15

Typical Alcohol Prices in Positano

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


  • Bottle of Limoncello
    16

Sample the Local Flavors in Positano

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

  • 5 Wine Tastings with Typical Products in Sorrento Coast: $76
  • Small Group Positano Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $108
  • Pompeii Wine Tasting Tour from Positano: $246


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Urbino and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Urbino much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Urbino would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Urbino and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano than you might in Urbino.

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


Which is Bigger, Urbino or Positano?

Urbino has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Urbino and Positano, 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 Urbino or Positano?

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 Urbino or Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Urbino are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Urbino this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Urbino is around the same temperature as Positano in the summer. The daily temperature in Urbino averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In July, Urbino usually receives more rain than Positano. Urbino gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Urbino 23°C (73°F) 
    Positano 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Positano in the Autumn?

Both Positano and Urbino during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Urbino for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Urbino is cooler than Positano. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Urbino in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Positano averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Urbino usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Urbino gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Urbino 15°C (59°F) 
    Positano 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Positano in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Urbino and Positano. Many visitors come to Urbino in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Urbino can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Urbino is generally much colder than Positano. Daily temperatures in Urbino average around 3°C (37°F), and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Positano receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Urbino usually receives less rain than Positano. Urbino gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Urbino 3°C (37°F) 
    Positano 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Positano in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Urbino as well as Positano. Most visitors come to Urbino for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Positano because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Urbino is around the same temperature as Positano in the spring. The daily temperature in Urbino averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Urbino usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Urbino gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Urbino 12°C (54°F) 
    Positano 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Positano and Urbino

Urbino Positano
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)