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

Should you visit Arachova or Girona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Girona, 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. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Girona

Girona is a colorful, medieval, and ancient city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Arachova and Girona: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Arachova or Girona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Girona are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, and hiking, while Girona attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Arachova is more touristy than Girona and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Girona is famous for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Arachova different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Girona Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Girona

Arachova is a good destination for snow skiing. However, Girona 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.

Girona is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Girona

Girona 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 Girona can be an interesting and educational experience. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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 Girona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Girona

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Girona 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.

Girona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Arachova or Girona Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Girona

Arachova is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Arachova offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.


Is Arachova or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Girona

Girona 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, Girona offers plenty to see. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

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 Girona Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Girona

Arachova is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Girona is not a hiking destination.

Arachova is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Girona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Girona?

Arachova
Girona

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

Girona is an extremely popular place for shoppers. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

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 Girona Better for Families?

Arachova
Girona

Arachova is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Arachova or Girona Better for Couples?

Arachova
Girona

Arachova and Girona are both great 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.

Girona is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Arachova or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Girona

Girona 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 Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

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 Girona Better for Students?

Arachova
Girona

Girona is a nice place to visit for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Girona is popular with students. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Girona

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

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 Girona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Is Arachova or Girona a more walkable city?

Arachova
Girona

Girona 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 Girona on foot is easy. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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 Girona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Girona or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Arachova or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Arachova than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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

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


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

One day in Arachova or Girona?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Arachova. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Girona 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 Girona?

Arachova is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Arachova or Girona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Girona 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 Girona?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the bustling destination of Arachova. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Girona 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 Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Girona 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 Girona is €140. 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 Girona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Girona 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Girona 138
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Girona

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Girona? 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 Girona


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: Girona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Girona 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Girona Airport (GRO) to Costa Brava - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21
  • Palamós to Barcelona Airport (BNC) Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Palamós to Girona Airport (GRO) - Departure Private Transfer : $33
  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $262
  • Transfer from Barcelona to girona Airport: $196

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Girona?

Prices for flights to both Girona 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
    Girona 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Girona

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

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Girona 24

Tours and Activities in Girona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Girona are as follows:

  • Girona self-guided tour app with multilingual audioguide: $4.28
  • Audio Tour Imprescindible a tu ritmo: $6.41
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Entrance ticket to the Girona Art Museum: $6.54
  • Museum of Cinema Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Fábrica-Museo de Anchoas Solés Ticket: $7.74
  • Self-guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Ticket pass to Girona Cathedral, Sant Felix and Girona Art Museum: $13
  • Catedral, Art Museum, St Felix Church Ticket & Audio: $29
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Girona History, Legends, and Food Walking Tour with food tasting: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Girona 9.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Girona

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

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $82
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $149


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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Girona?

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

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 Girona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Girona. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Girona in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arachova is a little warmer than Girona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Girona averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Girona this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Girona during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Girona. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Girona 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Girona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Girona. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, most visitors come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the autumn, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Girona. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Girona. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Arachova or Girona in the Winter?

Both Girona and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Girona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Arachova is a little warmer than Girona in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Girona fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Girona during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Girona. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Girona 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Girona in the Spring?

Both Girona and Arachova during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

In the spring, Arachova is a little warmer than Girona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Girona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Girona. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Girona and Arachova

Arachova Girona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)


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