A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Dresden for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Arachova or Dresden?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Dresden, 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. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Dresden

Dresden is a park-filled, friendly, and architectural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arachova and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Arachova or Dresden?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dresden than Arachova, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dresden is better known for its big city activities, while Arachova is more popular for its skiing, food, hiking, and small town charm. Arachova is well known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Dresden is well known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). Also, Dresden is famous for Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace.

How is Arachova different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Dresden Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Dresden

Arachova is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Dresden

Both Arachova and Dresden have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Dresden offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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

Arachova
Dresden

Arachova is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Arachova is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Arachova or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Dresden

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Dresden.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Dresden for the nightlife scene. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.


Is Arachova or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Dresden

Arachova and Dresden both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Dresden is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Is Arachova or Dresden Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Dresden

Arachova is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dresden is not a hiking destination.

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.

Dresden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Dresden?

Arachova
Dresden

Shopping is a popular activity in both Dresden and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.


Is Arachova or Dresden Better for Families?

Arachova
Dresden

Arachova is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is known to be 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.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Arachova or Dresden Better for Couples?

Arachova
Dresden

Arachova is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Arachova or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Dresden

Dresden is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dresden. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

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 Dresden Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Dresden

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

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 Dresden offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Arachova or Dresden a more walkable city?

Arachova
Dresden

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

Dresden is very walkable. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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 Dresden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Dresden. In our opinion, Arachova has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arachova than Dresden. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dresden.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Arachova or Dresden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Dresden 1-3

One day in Arachova or Dresden?

In Arachova, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Dresden offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Dresden?

In Arachova, you'll find museums and skiing. 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 Arachova has to offer.

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

Five days in Arachova or Dresden?

Arachova 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.

Dresden 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 Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Arachova. 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.

Dresden is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dresden 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 Dresden is €135. 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 Dresden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Dresden 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Dresden 122
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Dresden

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Dresden? 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 Dresden


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: Dresden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Dresden 11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - Business Van: $77
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - First Class: $136
  • One-Way Transfer from Dresden Airport (DRS) to Dresden: $146
  • Private Transfer from Dresden City to Leipzig City: $83
  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague with 2 hours for sightseeing: $158

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Dresden?

Prices for flights to both Dresden 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
    Dresden 31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dresden

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

  • Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $51
  • Winterlights Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $59
  • Dinner-Show "INDUSTRIELLE REVOLUTION": $117

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Dresden 9.56

Tours and Activities in Dresden

Here are a few actual costs in Dresden for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • River Elbe Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Old Town Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Dresden‘s Rise from Ruin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Dresden‘s Rise from Ruin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour : $7.99
  • Old Town Highlights Self-guided Tour: $8.45
  • Tour of VW's Transparent Factory: $9.62
  • The Green Factory Tour VW Transparent Factory: $9.62
  • Special Tour for Children & Families VW Factory: $9.62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Dresden 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Dresden

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

  • Dresden Bike Tour with Wine Tasting: $53
  • Radeberger Brewery Tour in German: $57
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Dresden, we can see that Dresden 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 Dresden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dresden 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 Dresden Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Dresden, 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 Dresden?

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 Arachova or Dresden in the Summer?

Both Dresden and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Dresden for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Dresden. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Dresden 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Dresden in the Autumn?

Both Dresden and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Dresden because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Arachova is much warmer than Dresden in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Arachova usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Dresden. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Dresden 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Dresden in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Dresden. The winter months attract visitors to Arachova because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dresden in the winter. In the winter, Arachova is much warmer than Dresden. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Dresden averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In January, Arachova usually receives more rain than Dresden. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Dresden 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Dresden in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Dresden. The small town charm are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dresden for the activities around the city.

In April, Arachova is generally much warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Dresden. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Dresden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Dresden and Arachova

Arachova Dresden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)