A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Varenna for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antalya or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Varenna? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a luxurious, historic, and cultural vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Varenna

Varenna is a pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antalya. Although Antalya and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Antalya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Antalya is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Varenna is known for its food and impressive beauty. Antalya is more touristy than Varenna and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Varenna is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Antalya different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Varenna?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Antalya. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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 Antalya or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna is an amazing village to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Varenna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Antalya or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Antalya has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

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 Antalya or Varenna Better for Music?

Antalya is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Varenna is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Varenna is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Varenna Better for Resorts?

Antalya is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Antalya for its luxury resorts. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Varenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Antalya is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Antalya offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Antalya or Varenna Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Antalya and Varenna both have superb trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Varenna. 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 Antalya or Varenna?

Antalya is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Antalya draws large crowds to its stores. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Many visitors go to Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Antalya or Varenna Better for Families?

Antalya 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, Antalya is very family-friendly. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

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 Antalya or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is an amazing village to visit for couples. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Is Antalya or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Antalya can get you to some places easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Antalya or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is an amazing village to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antalya or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antalya than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya 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 Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Varenna?

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

In Varenna, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antalya or Varenna?

In Antalya, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling 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 Antalya has to offer.

In Varenna, 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. 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 Varenna has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Varenna?

Antalya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Varenna is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 Antalya or Varenna?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Varenna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Varenna?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 900 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya 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 Antalya or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Varenna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In July, Antalya usually receives less rain than Varenna. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antalya or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Antalya during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Antalya because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

Antalya is a little warmer than Varenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the autumn, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Antalya usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Varenna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. In the winter, Antalya is much warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Antalya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Antalya usually receives more rain than Varenna. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antalya or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Varenna. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the spring, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Antalya usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Antalya