A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Como for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Arachova or Como?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Como, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Como

Como is a fun, vibrant, and scenic lake area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Como: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Arachova or Como?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arachova than Como, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arachova is better known for its skiing, museums, nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm, while Como is more popular for its food, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Como is more touristy than Arachova and is popular for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Arachova is well known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Also, Arachova is famous for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort.

How is Arachova different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Como Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Como

Arachova is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Como is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Como is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Como?

Arachova
Como

Arachova is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Arachova. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Como is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Arachova or Como Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Como

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Arachova has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.


Is Arachova or Como Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Como

Como is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Como has a beach worth visiting. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Como Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Como

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Arachova or Como Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Como

Arachova and Como are both places where visitors can find superb hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Many visitors go to Como for the hiking trails. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.


Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Como?

Arachova
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Como is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Arachova or Como Better for Families?

Arachova
Como

Arachova and Como are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Como is very family-friendly. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Is Arachova or Como Better for Couples?

Arachova
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Como has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.


Is Arachova or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Como

Como is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Arachova or Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Como

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Como.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Como offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Arachova or Como a more walkable city?

Arachova
Como

Como is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Como?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Como than Arachova 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 Como.


  • How many days in Arachova or Como? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Como 2-4

One day in Arachova or Como?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arachova. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful lake area of Como offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Como?

Arachova is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Como is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this lake area makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Como, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Como?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Arachova. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Como is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Arachova or Como?

The beautiful town of Arachova offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Como is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This lake area offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Como or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Como is €214. 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 Arachova and Como in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Como 146
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Como 292
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Como

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Como? 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 Arachova


Hotels in Como


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: Como Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Como 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Como

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

  • Argegno: Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $235
  • Bellagio to Malpensa Airport Milan (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $78
  • Como Private Transfer from Como city centre to Milan Malpensa Airport: $221
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193
  • From Como : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $336
  • From Private 1-Way Transfer to Linate airport: $306
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Como: $275
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • Private Transfer From Lecco or Malgrate: $65
  • Private Transfer from Como to Milan hotels: $53
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Como?

Prices for flights to both Como and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Como 60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Como

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

  • COOKING, EATING, LOVING - Lasagna cooking Class for everyone!: $45
  • Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling: $49
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lentate Verbano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lake Como Food Tour - Eat like a real Local: $108
  • Tour and historical dinner: Lake Como 1690: $131
  • Como Food Tour and the Farmers Market: $139
  • Homemade Pasta Cooking Class: $160
  • Como Area: Pizza Training Experience: $160
  • Pizza Training Experience. Como Area: $163
  • Lecco Bike Tour & Pizza Lunch: $163
  • Private Market Tour & Lunch or Dinner with a Local: $171
  • Como Food Tour: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Como -

Tours and Activities in Como

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

  • Agra Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Como: $8.71
  • Como Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Como Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.94
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • Self-Guided Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • Lake Self-Guided Walking Tour - Downtown Como: $21
  • Como City Audio Guide and Skip The Ticket Line to Brunate: $22
  • Como City Walking Tour : $27
  • City Tour with Duomo Visit and First Basin Lake Cruise: $32
  • Guided City Walking Tour: $32
  • 90minutes Tea Preparation and Tasting Experience in Como: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Como -

Sample the Local Flavors in Como

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

  • Domaso: Wine Tasting at the Winery on Como Lake: $60
  • Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake: $70
  • Lake Food and Wine tour in Colico: $114
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $135
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bellagio with Chef Luigi Gandola: $185
  • Food and Wine Tours Lake Como: $196


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Como?

Como has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Como, 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 Arachova or Como?

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 Arachova or Como in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Como. The summer months attract visitors to Arachova because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Como this time of year.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Como. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Como. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Como. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Como 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Como in the Autumn?

Both Como and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Como for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Arachova is a little warmer than Como in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Como during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Como. In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Como. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Como 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Como in the Winter?

Both Como and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Como in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Como can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Arachova is much warmer than Como. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Como averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Como. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Como. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Como 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Como in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Como. Many visitors come to Arachova in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Como during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Como. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Como 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Como and Arachova

Arachova Como
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)