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

Should you visit Arachova or Florence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Florence, 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 outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arachova and Florence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)


Is there more to do in Arachova or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence. Although Arachova and Florence are popular destinations, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Arachova attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and small town charm. Florence is more touristy than Arachova and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also well known for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Arachova is famous for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing.

How is Arachova different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Florence Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Florence

Arachova is a nice place to visit for skiing. However, Florence is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. 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.

Florence is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Florence

Florence 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, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Florence

Arachova is a great town for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Arachova has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.


Is Arachova or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is Arachova or Florence Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Florence

Arachova is a great town for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Arachova for the hiking trails. 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.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Florence?

Arachova
Florence

Florence is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Florence is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Arachova
Florence

Arachova is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Arachova or Florence Better for Couples?

Arachova
Florence

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

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Florence is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Arachova
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Florence

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

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 Florence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Arachova or Florence a more walkable city?

Arachova
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot.

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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Florence?

Both Arachova and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Arachova. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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


  • How many days in Arachova or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Florence 2-7

One day in Arachova or Florence?

The town of Arachova offers museums and skiing. 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.

The beautiful city of Florence offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Florence?

Arachova is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Arachova, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence 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 Florence, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Florence?

Arachova 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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Arachova or Florence?

Arachova 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 town offers something for everyone.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Florence 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 Florence is €154. 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 Florence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Florence 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Florence 174
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Florence? 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 Florence


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: Florence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Florence 22

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:


  • Taxi Ride Within City
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    25
  • In City Parking (Full Day)
    30
  • Bus Pass (Full Day)
    5.00
  • Bus From Airport
    5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

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

  • Florence to Pisa Airport (PSA) - Departure Private Transfer: $74
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer (Florence Airport To/From Florence Hotels): $65
  • Private Transfer from Florence to Milan: $216
  • Arrival Private Transfer Florence Station SMN to Florence City by Sedan or Van: $60
  • Chianti Wine Tastings and Visit to 3 Cellars with Lunch&Transfer: $234
  • Departure Private Transfer Florence City to Florence Station SMN by Sedan or Van: $60
  • Florence Airport (FLR) to Montecatini Terme - RoundTrip Transfer: $183
  • Florence Airport (FLR) to Siena or Sovicille - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $209
  • Florence Airport (FLR): One-Way/Roundtrip Private Transfer: $314
  • Florence Airport Private Departure Transfer: $48
  • Florence Airport Transfers : Airport FLR to Florence City in Luxury Van: $202
  • Florence Airport Transfers : Florence City to Airport FLR in Business Car: $177

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence 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
    Florence 36

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:


  • Panini Sandwich
    6.50
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

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

  • Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $23
  • Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Virtual Live Cooking Class What Do You Have in Your Pantry: $35
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Bruschetta & Tiramisù: $35
  • Italian Fresh Pasta Private Virtual Cooking Class: $40
  • Street Food Tour with Local Expert Guide: $41
  • Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours : $41
  • Florence Food Tour: Home-Made Pasta, Truffle, Cantucci, Olive Oil, Gelato: $41
  • Food Tour in Santo Spirito: $47
  • Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $47
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $61
  • Pasta Cooking Experience in Florence: $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Florence 30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Admission to Uffizi
    11
  • Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi
    4.00
  • Firenze Card (for Two)
    100
  • Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two)
    20
  • Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee
    6.00
  • Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee
    7.00

Tours and Activities in Florence

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

  • The Best tour in Renaissance and Medici Tales: $0.02
  • Renaissance and Medici Tales Guided Walking Tour: $2.67
  • Dark Mysteries and Legends Guided Walking Tour: $2.67
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • The Best tour in Renaissance & Medici Tales - guided by a STORYTELLER: $3.26
  • Sunset Walking Tour: $3.27
  • Private Tour to the Laboratory of Artistic Ceramics in Tuscany: $3.27
  • Smartphone self guided Tour: $4.27
  • Florence Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.50
  • The Towers of Florence Self-Guided Tour: $4.60
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Florence: $5.44
  • Uffizi Gallery Highlights Audio Guide (Ticket NOT included): $5.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Florence 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:


  • Glass of Chianti
    4.20
  • Bottle of Wine
    7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
  • Great wine tasting at Tenuta Moriano: $25
  • Biodynamic Wine Tasting with Producer in Vinci: $28
  • 3 Types Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $29
  • From Florence to Chianti Rufina: Wine Tasting Experience: $32
  • Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $33
  • Discover Artimino wine tasting, a few steps from Florence: $33
  • Three Types of Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $37
  • Wine Tasting and Paring Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
  • Chianti Wine Tour: Tuscan Reds : $43
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43


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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Arachova during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Arachova because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In the summer, Arachova is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Florence averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Florence. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Florence. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Florence 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Florence. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Florence during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Florence. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Florence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Florence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Florence. Many travelers come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Florence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Arachova is a little warmer than Florence in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Florence. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Florence. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Florence 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Arachova is a little warmer than Florence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Florence averages at about 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Florence during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Florence. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Florence 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Florence and Arachova

Arachova Florence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (57°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (75°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)