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

Should you visit Arachova or Heidelberg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Heidelberg, 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a character-filled, historic, and quaint town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Arachova and Heidelberg: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Arachova or Heidelberg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arachova than Heidelberg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arachova is better known for its skiing, museums, hiking, and small town charm, while Heidelberg is more popular for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. 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. Heidelberg is well known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

How is Arachova different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Heidelberg Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Heidelberg

Arachova is a good destination for skiing. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Heidelberg

Arachova is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Arachova
Heidelberg

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Arachova or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Heidelberg

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

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 Heidelberg for the nightlife scene. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.


Is Arachova or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Heidelberg

Heidelberg 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, Heidelberg offers plenty to see. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

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 Heidelberg Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Heidelberg

Arachova is a great town for hiking. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Heidelberg?

Arachova
Heidelberg

Shopping is a popular activity in both Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.


Is Arachova or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Arachova
Heidelberg

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Arachova. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Arachova or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Arachova
Heidelberg

Arachova and Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Arachova or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Heidelberg

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

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 Heidelberg Better for Students?

Arachova
Heidelberg

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

Heidelberg is popular with students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Heidelberg

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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 Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Arachova
Heidelberg

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

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly 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 Heidelberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Heidelberg?

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

Families should spend more time in Arachova than Heidelberg. 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.

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


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

One day in Arachova or Heidelberg?

With nightlife and food around the beautiful town of Arachova, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful town of Heidelberg offers nightlife and food. 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 Heidelberg?

With food and shopping around the destination of Arachova, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

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

Five days in Arachova or Heidelberg?

Arachova, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg?

Arachova is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Heidelberg 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 town 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 Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is €142. 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 Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Heidelberg 93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Heidelberg 186
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Heidelberg

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Heidelberg? 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 Heidelberg


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Heidelberg 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Heidelberg?

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Heidelberg 11

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.54
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.95
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.54
  • Uncover A Self-Guided Audio Tour Through Time: $11
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Heidelberg 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg in the Summer?

Both Heidelberg and Arachova during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Heidelberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Heidelberg. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Heidelberg. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, most visitors come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Arachova is much warmer than Heidelberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Heidelberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Heidelberg. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Heidelberg can be very cold. In the winter, Arachova is much warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Heidelberg. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Heidelberg in the Spring?

Both Heidelberg and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Arachova

Arachova Heidelberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)