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

Should you visit Annecy or Urbino?

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 Urbino can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a stunning, breathtaking, and quaint alpine town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Urbino

Urbino is a historic, undiscovered, and authentic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy and Urbino: 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 couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Annecy or Urbino?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Annecy. Although Annecy and Urbino are both popular with visitors, Annecy has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Annecy is more touristy than Urbino and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also home to Palais de l'Isle. Urbino is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Annecy different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Urbino 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 Urbino?

Annecy
Urbino

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

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 Urbino. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


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

Annecy
Urbino

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

Many restaurants in Annecy have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

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

Is Annecy or Urbino Better for Nightlife?

Annecy
Urbino

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

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 Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Annecy or Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Annecy
Urbino

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

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.

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


Is Annecy or Urbino Better for Hiking?

Annecy
Urbino

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

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. 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.

Urbino is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Urbino?

Annecy
Urbino

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and Urbino both offer plenty of good 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 Urbino to go shopping. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

Is Annecy or Urbino Better for Families?

Annecy
Urbino

Annecy is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Annecy. 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.

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


Is Annecy or Urbino Better for Couples?

Annecy
Urbino

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

Annecy is a great alpine town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

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

Is Annecy or Urbino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy
Urbino

Annecy is a alpine town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination for backpackers.

Annecy is a good alpine town to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

Is Annecy or Urbino Better for Students?

Annecy
Urbino

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

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

Annecy is not popular with students.


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

Annecy
Urbino

Annecy is a alpine town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

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

Is Annecy or Urbino a more walkable city?

Annecy
Urbino

Annecy is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Urbino or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Urbino?

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

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


  • How many days in Annecy or Urbino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Annecy 2-4 
    Urbino 1-2

One day in Annecy or Urbino?

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

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


A weekend in Annecy or Urbino?

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

Urbino 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 Urbino?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Urbino. 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 Urbino?

Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Urbino. This town 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 in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Urbino 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 Urbino is €118. 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 Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Annecy 92
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Annecy 184
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Annecy and Urbino

Looking for a hotel in Annecy or Urbino? 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 Urbino


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 Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Annecy 37
    Urbino 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Annecy or Urbino?

Prices for flights to both Urbino 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
    Urbino 39

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Annecy 41
    Urbino 15

Tours and Activities in Annecy

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

  • ANNECY | Private Walking Tour of Annecy's Historical Center: $191
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $334
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Tours and Activities in Urbino

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Annecy 34
    Urbino 14

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Annecy or Urbino?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Urbino. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Urbino, 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 Urbino?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Annecy or Urbino in the Summer?

Both Urbino and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Urbino in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Annecy is around the same temperature as Urbino. Typically, the summer temperatures in Annecy in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Urbino averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Annecy usually receives less rain than Urbino. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Annecy 22°C (71°F) 
    Urbino 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Urbino in the Autumn?

Both Urbino and Annecy during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Annecy in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Urbino for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Annecy is generally around the same temperature as Urbino. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 14°C (56°F), and Urbino fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Annecy usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Urbino. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Annecy 14°C (56°F) 
    Urbino 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Urbino in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Urbino. Most visitors come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Urbino because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Urbino can be very cold. Annecy can be very cold during winter. Annecy is a little warmer than Urbino in the winter. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Urbino fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Annecy usually receives more rain than Urbino. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Annecy 4°C (39°F) 
    Urbino 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Annecy or Urbino in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Urbino. The spring months attract visitors to Annecy because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Urbino this time of year.

In the spring, Annecy is around the same temperature as Urbino. Typically, the spring temperatures in Annecy in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Urbino averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Annecy usually gets more rain in April than Urbino. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Annecy 11°C (53°F) 
    Urbino 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Urbino and Annecy

Annecy Urbino
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)


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