A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Bergamo for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Annecy or Bergamo?

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 Annecy and Bergamo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a beautiful, under-rated, and historical city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Annecy or Bergamo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Bergamo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is more touristy than Bergamo and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Bergamo is well known for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Annecy different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Annecy or Bergamo?

Annecy
Bergamo

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Annecy and Bergamo.

Annecy offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergamo. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.


Is the Food Better in Annecy or Bergamo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy
Bergamo

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Annecy is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Bergamo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

Is Annecy or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Annecy
Bergamo

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Annecy and Bergamo.

If you're looking for night time activities Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Annecy or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Annecy
Bergamo

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its old town. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Annecy offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Bergamo has an old town worth visiting. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.


Is Annecy or Bergamo Better for Hiking?

Annecy
Bergamo

Annecy is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergamo is not a hiking destination.

Annecy is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Bergamo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Bergamo?

Annecy
Bergamo

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and Bergamo both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Many visitors go to Bergamo to go shopping. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

Is Annecy or Bergamo Better for Families?

Annecy
Bergamo

Annecy is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very kid-friendly alpine town. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.


Is Annecy or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Annecy
Bergamo

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Annecy has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Bergamo is a good alpine town for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

Is Annecy or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy
Bergamo

For backpackers, both Annecy and Bergamo are notable places to visit.

Annecy is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bergamo. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Annecy or Bergamo Better for Students?

Annecy
Bergamo

Bergamo is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Bergamo. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

Annecy is not popular with students.


Is Annecy or Bergamo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Annecy
Bergamo

Annecy and Bergamo both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Bergamo has a few public transit options. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

Is Annecy or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Annecy
Bergamo

Annecy and Bergamo are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Annecy is a very walkable alpine town. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

Bergamo is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Annecy Worth Visiting? and Is Bergamo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Annecy and Bergamo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Annecy than in Bergamo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy than Bergamo 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 Annecy.


  • How many days in Annecy or Bergamo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Annecy 2-4 
    Bergamo 2-3

One day in Annecy or Bergamo?

Annecy is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This alpine town 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 and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bergamo. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Annecy or Bergamo?

Annecy 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Annecy has to offer.

Bergamo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Annecy or Bergamo?

Annecy is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Bergamo. 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 Annecy or Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Since Annecy is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Bergamo. This city 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bergamo or Annecy?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Annecy is €178, while the average daily cost in Bergamo is €155. 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 Annecy and Bergamo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Annecy 92
    Bergamo 83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Annecy 184
    Bergamo 166
Compare Hotels in Annecy and Bergamo

Looking for a hotel in Annecy or Bergamo? 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 Annecy


Hotels in Bergamo


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: Annecy Hotel Prices and Bergamo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Annecy 37
    Bergamo 32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

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

  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $295
  • Lyon : Luxury private transfer to Annecy in Van: $374

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergamo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergamo:

  • Bergamo Airport (BGY): Private Transfer to/from Milan: $402
  • MILAN - ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer Luxury: MASERATI: $326
  • Small-Group Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Trieste: $268
  • Private Departure Transfer from central Bergamo to Milan Malpensa airport: $262
  • Milan: ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer in Luxury MINIVAN: $222
  • Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Venice + Water Taxi - Private Transfer: $218
  • Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) to St. Moritz - Round-Trip Transfer: $205
  • Milan: Orio al Serio BGY Airport Transfer SEDAN CAR E CLASS: $181
  • Orio al Serio Airport to Madonna di Campiglio Arrival Transfer: $117
  • Bergamo Airport (BGY) to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Private Transfer from Milan Bergamo Airport to Bergamo hotels : $46
  • Bergamo to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Annecy or Bergamo?

Prices for flights to both Bergamo and Annecy 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
    Annecy 58
    Bergamo 42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Annecy

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

  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide: $148
  • Private Market Tour and Modern French Cooking and Meal with a Local in Annecy: $188
  • Private Walking Food Tour: $348

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergamo

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

  • Authentic Taste at the Table Family Recipes Cooking Class: $82
  • Tricolor Pasta Cooking Class with a Chef in Como countryside: $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lomello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casorezzo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Carugo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Ranica with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Endine Gaiano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cantù with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Busto Arsizio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Passirano with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Guardamiglio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cernusco sul Naviglio with Show Cooking: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Annecy 41
    Bergamo 33

Tours and Activities in Annecy

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Yakapedaler : bike rental tour with the Annecy lac: $21
  • Full-day private tour from Geneva to Annecy: $40
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Tours and Activities in Bergamo

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

  • 2.5-hour Private Bergamo Walking Tour: $120
  • Bergamo : Highlights Private Walking Tour: $70
  • Bergamo : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $49
  • Bergamo Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Bergamo Old Town Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $5.35
  • Bergamo Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Bergamo Private Walking Tour: $164
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $8.94
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Bergamo private guided tour: $156
  • Bergamo sightseeings tour. Magic of medieval town.: $273
  • 2.5-Hour Private Tour of the Lower Town: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Annecy 34
    Bergamo 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Annecy

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

  • Wine Tour with private driver: $850

Sample the Local Flavors in Bergamo

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

  • Food and Wine tasting of Valtenesi and Lugana: $46
  • Lake Como: Wellness Spa experience with wine tasting : $163


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


Which is Bigger, Annecy or Bergamo?

Bergamo has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Bergamo, 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 Annecy or Bergamo?

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 Annecy or Bergamo in the Summer?

Both Bergamo and Annecy during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bergamo for the family-friendly experiences.

Annecy is around the same temperature as Bergamo in the summer. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Bergamo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Annecy. In the summer, Annecy often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bergamo. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bergamo. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Annecy 22°C (71°F) 
    Bergamo 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Bergamo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Bergamo. Many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bergamo in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Annecy is around the same temperature as Bergamo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Annecy in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Bergamo averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Bergamo during autumn. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bergamo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Annecy usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Annecy 14°C (56°F) 
    Bergamo 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Bergamo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Bergamo. Many visitors come to Annecy in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Bergamo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bergamo can be very cold during winter. Annecy can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Annecy is generally much warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 4°C (39°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Bergamo. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 98 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in January than Bergamo. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Annecy 4°C (39°F) 
    Bergamo 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Bergamo in the Spring?

Both Bergamo and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bergamo because of the natural beauty.

Annecy is around the same temperature as Bergamo in the spring. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Annecy usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bergamo during spring. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Annecy usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Annecy 11°C (53°F) 
    Bergamo 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Annecy

Annecy Bergamo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 21°C (70°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (73°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)


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