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

Should you visit Cannes or Pompeii?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cannes and Pompeii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cannes

Cannes is a lavish, glitzy, and opulent resort city. With stunning beauty, Cannes attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Cannes travel costs.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a ancient, famous, and iconic archeological site. Other popular activities here include museums. See Pompeii travel costs.

Cannes and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cannes or Pompeii?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cannes. Although Cannes and Pompeii are popular destinations, Cannes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cannes is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Cannes is famous for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also well known for Boulevard de la Croisette. Pompeii is famous for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

How is Cannes different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pompeii is an amazing archeological site to visit for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Pompeii on the map. 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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cannes is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Cannes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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 Cannes or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Cannes has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

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 Cannes or Pompeii Better for Music?

Cannes is renowned for its music scene. However, Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Cannes has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Pompeii is not a live music destination.

Is Cannes or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

Cannes is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cannes is a perfect choice. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Cannes or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cannes is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cannes or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Cannes is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Cannes or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cannes or Pompeii?

Cannes is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many people travel to Cannes specifically to go shopping. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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.

Is Cannes or Pompeii More Beautiful?

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Pompeii is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cannes attracts visitors from all around. Many people recognize this city because it hosts a film festival of the same name, but it's also a popular year round destination for its beautiful beaches and fun atmosphere.

Pompeii is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cannes or Pompeii Better for Families?

Pompeii is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Pompeii is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Cannes is a family-friendly resort city. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Cannes or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Cannes is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Cannes has plenty to offer. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

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 Cannes or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pompeii is very good for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pompeii is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

Is Cannes or Pompeii Better for Students?

Pompeii is very good for students. However, Cannes is not popular with students.

Pompeii is a good archeological site to visit for 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.

Cannes is not popular with students.

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

Both Cannes and Pompeii offer nice public transit options.

Cannes has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Cannes or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii is an amazing archeological site to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Pompeii on foot. 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.

Cannes is very walkable. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Cannes?

How long in Cannes or Pompeii?

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

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

One day in Cannes or Pompeii?

In Cannes, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cannes or Pompeii?

In Cannes, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cannes has to offer.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, 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 Cannes or Pompeii?

Cannes 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pompeii. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cannes or Pompeii?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cannes. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Cannes. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the ancient destination of Pompeii. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Cannes 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 Cannes or Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii and Cannes during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cannes because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pompeii this time of year.

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

Cannes usually gets less rain in July than Pompeii. Cannes gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or Pompeii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cannes and Pompeii. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cannes this time of year.

In the autumn, Cannes is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cannes in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Pompeii averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cannes gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cannes usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Cannes gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cannes or Pompeii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cannes as well as Pompeii. Many travelers come to Cannes for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Pompeii in the winter for the museums.

In January, Cannes is generally around the same temperature as Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Cannes average around 9°C (48°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. Cannes usually gets less rain in January than Pompeii. Cannes gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or Pompeii in the Spring?

Both Pompeii and Cannes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cannes in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Cannes is around the same temperature as Pompeii in the spring. The daily temperature in Cannes averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Pompeii fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In April, Cannes usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Cannes gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Cannes