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

Should you visit Arachova or Genoa?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Genoa, 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. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arachova and Genoa: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Arachova or Genoa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arachova than Genoa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arachova is better known for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm, while Genoa is more popular for its museums, beaches, and impressive beauty. 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. Genoa is well known for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Arachova different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Genoa Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Genoa

Arachova is a nice place to visit for skiing. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Genoa

Genoa is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Genoa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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 Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Genoa

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Genoa can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Genoa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Arachova or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Genoa

Arachova is great for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Many people head to Arachova for the nightlife scene. 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 Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.


Is Arachova or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Genoa

Genoa is a port city with a few options for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Genoa

Arachova is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is Arachova or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Genoa

Arachova is great for hiking. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Genoa?

Arachova
Genoa

Shopping is a popular activity in both Genoa 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 Genoa. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Arachova or Genoa Better for Families?

Arachova
Genoa

Arachova and Genoa 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, Genoa is very family-friendly. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Is Arachova or Genoa Better for Couples?

Arachova
Genoa

Arachova and Genoa are both superb to visit as a couple.

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.

Genoa is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.


Is Arachova or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Genoa

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa Better for Students?

Arachova
Genoa

Genoa is well known for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Genoa

Genoa is well known for its public transit. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Genoa is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

While Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.


Is Arachova or Genoa a more walkable city?

Arachova
Genoa

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

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore 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 Genoa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Arachova or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa 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 Genoa.

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

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


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

One day in Arachova or Genoa?

In Arachova, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The port city of Genoa offers food and shopping. 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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


Five days in Arachova or Genoa?

Arachova is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

You'll find museums and skiing around the bustling destination of Arachova. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Genoa is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Genoa 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 Genoa is €150. 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 Genoa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Genoa 88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Genoa 176
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Genoa

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Genoa? 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 Genoa


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: Genoa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Genoa 8.69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

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

  • Departure Private Transfer Genoa, Savona or Portofino to GOA Airport by Sedan: $44
  • From Genoa to Florence Hotels - Private Transfer: $145
  • From Genova: Portofino Return Transfer by Open-Top Bus: $63
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Genoa - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Genoa - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Milan - Arrival Private Transfer: $111
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $222
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Portofino hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $107
  • Genoa Airport Transfers : Genoa City to Genoa Airport GOA in Business Car: $65
  • Genoa Airport Transfers : Genoa City to Genoa Airport GOA in Minivan: $65
  • Genoa Airport to Savona Cruise Port Private Arrival Transfer: $59
  • Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $52

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Genoa?

Prices for flights to both Genoa 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
    Genoa 51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

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

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $68
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $74
  • Itinerant dinner in the old town: $75
  • Street Food Tour: $84
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $86
  • Traditional Food Tour: $91
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Camogli: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Savona: $93
  • Dining experience with cooking demo and wines in Rapallo: $93
  • Traditional Home Cooking Class in Genoa: $93
  • Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner: $93
  • Small-group Street food tour in Savona: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Genoa 20

Tours and Activities in Genoa

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Genoa Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights Self-guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Lighthouse Entrance Ticket: $8.56
  • Finance and Nobility Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Finance and Nobility: Explore medieval Genoa on a self-guided audio tour: $8.99
  • Historic Guided Tour of Christopher Columbus' House: $11
  • The City of Children and Young Museum Entry Ticket: $13
  • Historic Shops in Tour Through Tradition and Flavours: $15
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of the Historical Center: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Genoa 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

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

  • Guided Eco Hiking and Sea View Wine Tasting in Portofino Park: $75
  • 3 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $105
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $125


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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

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 Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa 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. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Genoa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Genoa. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Genoa. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Genoa 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Genoa. 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 Genoa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Genoa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Genoa during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Genoa. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Genoa 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Genoa in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Arachova is around the same temperature as Genoa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Genoa averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Genoa. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Genoa. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Genoa 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Genoa in the Spring?

Both Genoa 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 Genoa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Genoa. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Genoa 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 Genoa during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Genoa. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Genoa 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Genoa and Arachova

Arachova Genoa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)