A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Taormina for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Arachova or Taormina?

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

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

Taormina

Taormina is a historic, beautiful, and exclusive town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Taormina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Arachova or Taormina?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arachova than Taormina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arachova is better known for its skiing, historical sights, and hiking, while Taormina is more popular for its resorts, beaches, small town charm, 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. Taormina is well known for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views.

How is Arachova different from Taormina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Taormina Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Taormina

Arachova is a town with good options for skiing. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Taormina

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

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

Taormina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

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

Arachova
Taormina

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Taormina 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.

Taormina has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

Is Arachova or Taormina Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Taormina

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

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 Taormina for the nightlife scene. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.


Is Arachova or Taormina Better for Resorts?

Arachova
Taormina

Taormina is well known for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Taormina is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Arachova or Taormina Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Taormina

Taormina is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Taormina has a beach worth visiting. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Arachova or Taormina Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Taormina

Arachova is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Taormina does not have a historic old town.

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.

Taormina does not have a historic old town.


Is Arachova or Taormina Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Taormina

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

Taormina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Taormina?

Arachova
Taormina

Shopping is a popular activity in both Taormina 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 Taormina. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Is Arachova or Taormina Better for Families?

Arachova
Taormina

Arachova is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known 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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.


Is Arachova or Taormina Better for Couples?

Arachova
Taormina

Arachova and Taormina are both high quality 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.

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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

Arachova
Taormina

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

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 Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

Is Arachova or Taormina a more walkable city?

Arachova
Taormina

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

Taormina is very walkable. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the 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 Taormina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Taormina or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Taormina?

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

Families should spend more time in Arachova than Taormina. 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 Arachova than Taormina 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 Arachova.


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

One day in Arachova or Taormina?

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.

Taormina is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Taormina?

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.

Taormina 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Taormina, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Taormina?

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.

Taormina 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 Taormina?

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.

Taormina is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Taormina 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 Taormina is €108. 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 Taormina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Taormina 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Taormina 140
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Taormina

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Taormina? 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 Taormina


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: Taormina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Taormina 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49
  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Taormina?

Prices for flights to both Taormina 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
    Taormina 33

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

Tours and Activities in Taormina

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

  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Tour di Taormina, Savoca e Forza D' Agro': $139
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • Tour da Messina a Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella: $695
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Taormina 8.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

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

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Taormina, we can see that Arachova is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arachova Expensive? and Is Taormina Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Taormina?

Taormina has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Taormina, 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 Taormina?

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 Taormina in the Summer?

Both Taormina and Arachova during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Taormina. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the summer, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Taormina. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Taormina. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Taormina 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Taormina in the Autumn?

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

Arachova is around the same temperature as Taormina in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Taormina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Taormina during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Taormina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Taormina. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Taormina 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Taormina in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Taormina. Many visitors come to Arachova in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Taormina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Arachova is cooler than Taormina. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Taormina averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Taormina. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 115 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Taormina. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Taormina 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Taormina in the Spring?

Both Taormina and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arachova for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Taormina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Taormina. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Taormina. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Taormina during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Taormina. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Taormina 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Taormina and Arachova

Arachova Taormina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)


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