A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Varenna for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Annecy or Varenna?

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

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking.

Annecy and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is more touristy than Varenna and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Annecy different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Annecy and Varenna.

Annecy has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Varenna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is Annecy or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Annecy is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Annecy or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Annecy is revered around the world. 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.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Annecy or Varenna Better for Hiking?

You'll find high quality hiking in both Annecy and Varenna.

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.

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Varenna?

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and Varenna 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 Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Annecy or Varenna Better for Families?

Annecy is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is Annecy or Varenna Better for Couples?

Both Annecy and Varenna are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Annecy 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.

Varenna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

Is Annecy or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Annecy and Varenna 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 Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Annecy and Varenna 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.

Varenna has a few public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Annecy or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its ease of walking around.

Varenna is a very easy village to get around on foot. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Annecy or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Annecy than Varenna 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 Varenna.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Varenna. 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 Varenna. 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 Varenna 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.

One day in Annecy or Varenna?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Annecy or Varenna?

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.

Varenna 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.

Five days in Annecy or Varenna?

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 Varenna. 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.

A week in Annecy or Varenna?

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 scenic destination of Varenna. This village 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Varenna, 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 Varenna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Varenna?

Annecy has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Annecy and Varenna, 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Varenna. Many visitors come to Annecy in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Annecy is around the same temperature as Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Varenna this time of the year. In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. Annecy usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Annecy usually receives less rain than Varenna. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Annecy or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Annecy is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Annecy in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Annecy usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Annecy because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Varenna in the winter. The weather in Annecy can be very cold. In January, Annecy is generally cooler than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 4°C (39°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Annecy usually receives less rain than Varenna. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Annecy or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Annecy during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Varenna for the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Annecy often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Annecy usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Annecy