A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Windsor vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Windsor or Pompeii?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Pompeii? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a royal, traditional, and touristy town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a iconic, one-of-a-kind, and ancient archeological site. And you can't forget about the museums.

Windsor and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Windsor or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pompeii. Although Windsor and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Pompeii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pompeii is more popular for its museums and shopping, while Windsor is known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Pompeii is more touristy than Windsor and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It is also home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
The Pompeii Archaeological Ruins

How is Windsor different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Pompeii?

Windsor
Pompeii

Pompeii is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Pompeii are among the most recognizable in the world. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Pompeii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Pompeii

Windsor is very good for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Windsor or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Pompeii

Windsor is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Windsor. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Windsor or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Pompeii

Windsor is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Pompeii?

Windsor
Pompeii

Pompeii is not so good for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Pompeii Better for Families?

Windsor
Pompeii

Pompeii is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Pompeii is a very kid-friendly archeological site. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Windsor
Pompeii

Windsor is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Windsor makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.


Is Windsor or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Pompeii

Pompeii is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Pompeii Better for Students?

Windsor
Pompeii

Pompeii is a popular place for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Windsor is not popular with students.

Is Windsor or Pompeii Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Windsor
Pompeii

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Pompeii.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

While Pompeii offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.


Is Windsor or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Windsor
Pompeii

Pompeii is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Pompeii on foot is easy. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Windsor or Pompeii to fill your time. In our opinion, Pompeii has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pompeii than Windsor. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pompeii than Windsor 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 Pompeii.


  • How many days in Windsor or Pompeii? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Pompeii 1-2

One day in Windsor or Pompeii?

Windsor is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Windsor or Pompeii?

Windsor 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Windsor has to offer.

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer.


Five days in Windsor or Pompeii?

Windsor 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.

Pompeii 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.

A week in Windsor or Pompeii?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pompeii. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Pompeii or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Pompeii is £129. 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 Windsor and Pompeii in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Pompeii £60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Pompeii £120
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Pompeii

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Pompeii? 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 Windsor


Hotels in Pompeii


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Pompeii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Pompeii £46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pompeii

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

  • Organic Wine Tasting & Lunch on Vesuvius with Transfer from Pompeii: $132
  • Private transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Private transfer from Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Small Group Pompeii Wine Tasting with Lunch & Transfer Included : $97
  • Transfer Private from Ravello to Naples: $239
  • Transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Transfer from Pompeii to Naples or viceversa: $66
  • Transfers Ravello - Naples: $207
  • Transfers from Naples to Sorrento Positano Amalfi Ravello Maiori: $97

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Pompeii?

Prices for flights to both Pompeii and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Pompeii £30
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pompeii

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

  • Traditional Neapolitan Dinner in Pompei - Villa Franca - Family Restourant: $38
  • Cooking Class with Italian Mamma in Pompeii: $65
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Pompei: $93
  • Pompei tour with a 2000 years roman dinner: $112
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Pompei: $142
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Pompei: $158
  • Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Pompei: $158
  • Private market tour and cooking class with lunch or dinner in Pompei: $206
  • guided tour of the ruins and cooking class fresh pasta : $272
  • Cooking class: Pasta Experience in Pompei, Italy: $300

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Pompeii £66

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Tours and Activities in Pompeii

For Pompeii, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • The Rise, Fall, and Rediscovery of A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Pompeii Express 1 hour Guided Tour: $21
  • Pompeii Ticket with Optional Guided Tour: $31
  • PompeiI VIP: Guided Tour with your Archaeologist in a Small Group : $32
  • Pompeii for kids or adults skip the line small group walking tour 2 hours: $33
  • Entrance ticket to the Valle dell'Orso Water Park: $33
  • Pompeii Skip the Line ticket + Audioguide: $35
  • Pompeii Archeological Site Fast Track Entry Ticket : $36
  • Pompeii Tour with experienced guide: $38
  • Pompeii tour with archaeologist: $38
  • guided tour of the archaeological excavations of Pompeii: $38
  • Semi-Private Tour of Pompeii Ruins: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Pompeii £6.27

Sample the Local Flavors in Pompeii

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

  • Wine Tasting Tour on the Slopes of Vesuvius: $46
  • Wine Tasting on Mt. Vesuvius: $55
  • Seafood Lunch with Wine Tasting & Tour on a golf cart: $87
  • Guided Tour of Pompeii Ruins with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $98
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting in Pompeii with a Local: $124
  • Pompeii Guided Tour & Horse Riding on Vesuvius with Wine Tasting: $191
  • Pompeii, Herculaneum and scenic drive of the Mt. Vesuvius with wine tasting: $207


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



When is the best time to visit Windsor or Pompeii?

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 Windsor or Pompeii in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Pompeii. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is cooler than Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. In the summer, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets more rain in July than Pompeii. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Pompeii 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Windsor is generally cooler than Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. In October, Windsor usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Pompeii 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pompeii in the Winter?

Both Pompeii and Windsor during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pompeii for the museums during these months.

Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. Windsor is much colder than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Windsor usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Pompeii 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Pompeii in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Pompeii. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Windsor is cooler than Pompeii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Windsor in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Pompeii averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Pompeii 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Windsor

Windsor Pompeii
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)