A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Almeria vs. Lake Garda for Food, Beaches, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Almeria or Lake Garda?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Almeria and Lake Garda. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Almeria

Almeria is a historic, natural, and breathtaking region. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a fun, energetic, and scenic lake. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Almeria and Lake Garda: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Almeria or Lake Garda?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lake Garda. Although Almeria and Lake Garda are both popular with visitors, Lake Garda has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lake Garda is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Almeria is known for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Almeria is popular for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. Lake Garda is popular for its beautiful setting, charming towns, and fun amusement parks. It is also home to Sirmione.

How is Almeria different from Lake Garda?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Almeria or Lake Garda?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria 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 Lake Garda. While most people come for the natural beauty, there are also great castles that you can explore. Castello Scaligeri, Grotte di Catullo, and Castello Scaligero.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Almeria or Lake Garda? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Almeria is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Almeria is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

Dining out in Lake Garda is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many great local restaurants in the area. Most make use of local ingredients such as olive oil, lemons, wine, and fish. Pasta and risotto are both popular throughout the area as well.

Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Lake Garda know how to have a good time. You'll find clubs and bars in various towns that make for a great nightlife scene. You'll even find beach parties and fireworks shows during the most popular times of the year.

If you're looking for night time activities Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Almeria is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Lake Garda is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Almeria is a great choice. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Lake Garda is not a resort destination.


Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Almeria is terrific for the beache. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Almeria. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Lake Garda is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Despite there being no ocean, there are many great swimming beaches in the area. Many have sand and great places to relax. There's also plenty of watersports to choose from.

Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Almeria is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Lake Garda does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Lake Garda does not have a historic old town.

Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Hiking trails can be found around both Almeria and Lake Garda, and they are superb.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Many visitors go to Lake Garda for the hiking trails. There are many great walking and hiking trails in the area that take you through the natural beauty, connect the charming towns, and offer spectacular viewpoints.


Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Lake Garda?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Lake Garda to go shopping. Many villages around the lake are great for shopping. You'll find clothing stores, jewelry shops, and souvenir vendors with something for everyone.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for Families?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Lake Garda is very family-friendly. The nearby amusement parks, including Gardaland, make this a popular destination for families. The area also has many places to swim, trails to explore, and castles to experience. Kids and adults alike will love this amazing kid-friendly area.

Almeria is a very family-friendly destination. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for Couples?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Almeria and Lake Garda both superb destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Almeria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Lake Garda is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. You'll find a lot of families in the area because of the amusement parks, but that doesn't mean that this isn't a romantic and beautiful spot for couples. There are many charming towns to explore and scenic viewpoints to check out. There are also excellent romantic restaurants that you should try.


Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Almeria is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Almeria. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Lake Garda is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around the lake that are affordable and fun. The area also see enough backpackers to keep the atmosphere fun and social.

Is Almeria or Lake Garda Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Lake Garda. There are ferries, buses, and trains in the area.

While Almeria offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

Is Almeria or Lake Garda a more walkable city?

Almeria
Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

Lake Garda is a very walkable destination. There are walking trails that connect the villages around the lake and this how many people choose to get around.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Almeria Worth Visiting? and Is Lake Garda Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Garda or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Lake Garda?

It's fun to spend time in either Almeria or Lake Garda. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lake Garda due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Almeria, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lake Garda.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria than Lake Garda 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 Almeria.


  • How many days in Almeria or Lake Garda? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Lake Garda 2-4

One day in Almeria or Lake Garda?

With food and nightlife around the historic region of Almeria, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Almeria, one day is sufficent for most.

In Lake Garda, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This lake offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Almeria or Lake Garda?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Almeria, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this region.

In Lake Garda, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake Garda has to offer.

Five days in Almeria or Lake Garda?

Almeria, a popular region, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lake Garda is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Almeria or Lake Garda?

Almeria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake Garda. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lake Garda. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Lake Garda or Almeria?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Almeria is €99, while the average daily cost in Lake Garda is €166. 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 Almeria and Lake Garda in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Lake Garda 84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Lake Garda 168
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Lake Garda

Looking for a hotel in Almeria or Lake Garda? 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 Almeria


Hotels in Lake Garda


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Lake Garda 66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $125
  • Tabernas: transfer + ticket Fort Bravo or Minihollywood: $62
  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $66
  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake Garda

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

  • Private Transfer from Verona VRN Airport to Lake Garda: $109
  • Verona Opera Arena: Transfer from Lake Garda & Opera Ticket: $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Almeria or Lake Garda?

Prices for flights to both Lake Garda and Almeria 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
    Almeria 40
    Lake Garda 42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Almeria

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

  • Spanish Paella Private Online Cooking Class: $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lake Garda

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

  • 3 Hour Fresh Pasta and Tiramisù Private Cooking Class with Meal : $65
  • Valpolicella Wine and Food Tour: $75
  • Cusina - Cooking Class: Fresh Pasta with wine tasting: $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cecina with Show Cooking: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Lake Garda 30

Tours and Activities in Almeria

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

  • Almería: Cathedral Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Almería: Cathedral and Convent of the Puras Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour: $16
  • Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour: $11
  • Almeria : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $49
  • Almeria like a Local: Customized Private Tour : $52
  • Alcazaba Guided Tour: $16
  • Convent of the Puras Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • History and Hidden Corners Essential Walking Tour: $14
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Spanish Civil War Shelters Ticket and Official Tour: $11
  • Andalusia: Almeria Cathedral Entry with Guided Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Lake Garda

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

  • Gardaland SEA LIFE Aquarium: Open Date Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Lake Garda Mini Cruise: Sirmione Peninsula: $13
  • Hotel Villa Cariola Pool Entry Ticket: $20
  • From San Felice del Benaco: Islands Boat Tour: $27
  • Sunset Tour in Sirmione : $27
  • Tour in the Winery and tasting: $32
  • Bardolino: Vineyard Tour with Wine, Olive Oil & Food Tasting: $37
  • Lazise: Beekeeping Farm Tour and Tasting Experience: $42
  • Beekeeping Farm Tour and Tasting Experience in Lazise: $43
  • Winery Tour and Tasting of Garda Wines in Lazise: $44
  • Guided Boat Cruise to Sirmione from Garda/Bardolino: $48
  • From Garda/Bardolino: 4-hour Guided Boat Cruise to Sirmione: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Almeria 4.29
    Lake Garda 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

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

  • Almería Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting: $24
  • Almería Wine tour and tasting in English in Bio Winery: $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Lake Garda

Also in Lake Garda, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bardolino: Wine tasting at Cantina Valetti: $26
  • Wine Tasting and Tour of Lugana Wines in Sirmione: $32
  • Wine Tasting with Local Food in Lazise Countryside: $32
  • Vineyards Tour and Wine Tasting: $42
  • Garda Hills Wine Tour and Tasting: $42
  • Wine Tasting in Historical Center of Lazise: $44
  • Art Experience with Food and Wine Tasting in Lazise: $55
  • E-Bike Tour and wine tasting in Lazise Countryside: $87
  • E-Bike Tour and Wine Tasting in Lazise: $87
  • Lazise: Bike Tour and Wine Tasting: $90
  • Castles boat tour with Bardolino wine tasting and nibbles: $98


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

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



When is the best time to visit Almeria or Lake Garda?

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 Almeria or Lake Garda in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Lake Garda. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Almeria this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lake Garda for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Almeria is generally around the same temperature as Lake Garda. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 26°C (78°F), and Lake Garda fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lake Garda. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the summer, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Lake Garda. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 286 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in July than Lake Garda. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Lake Garda 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Lake Garda in the Autumn?

Both Lake Garda and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Almeria for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lake Garda in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Almeria is a little warmer than Lake Garda in the autumn. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during autumn. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Almeria usually receives less rain than Lake Garda. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Lake Garda 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Lake Garda in the Winter?

Both Lake Garda and Almeria during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Almeria in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lake Garda for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lake Garda can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Almeria is much warmer than Lake Garda. Typically, the winter temperatures in Almeria in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Lake Garda averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Lake Garda. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 98 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in January than Lake Garda. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Lake Garda 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Lake Garda in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Lake Garda. Most visitors come to Almeria for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lake Garda because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Almeria is generally a little warmer than Lake Garda. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 16°C (61°F), and Lake Garda fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during spring. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Almeria usually receives less rain than Lake Garda. Almeria gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Lake Garda 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Lake Garda and Almeria

Almeria Lake Garda
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 9°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (75°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (73°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 51 mm (2 in)


Related Articles for Lake Garda