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

Should you visit Arachova or Villach?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Villach, 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. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Villach

Villach is a outdoorsy, historic, and nature-filled town. 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. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Arachova and Villach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Arachova or Villach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arachova than Villach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arachova is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Villach is more popular for its impressive beauty. Arachova is more touristy than Villach and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Also, Arachova is famous for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Villach is well known for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

How is Arachova different from Villach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Villach Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova is a popular place for snow skiing. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Villach

Both Arachova and Villach 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.

Villach offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.

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

Arachova
Villach

Arachova is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its restaurants.

Dining out in Arachova is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Villach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Is Arachova or Villach Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Arachova has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Villach. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.


Is Arachova or Villach Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Arachova. 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.

Villach is a good destination for visiting its old town. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

Is Arachova or Villach Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova and Villach are both places where visitors can find very good hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. 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.

Many visitors go to Villach for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Villach?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

Many visitors go to Arachova to go shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.


Is Arachova or Villach Better for Families?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova and Villach are both very good 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, Villach is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.

Is Arachova or Villach Better for Couples?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova and Villach are both very good 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.

Villach is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

Is Arachova or Villach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Villach

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Villach. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

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 Villach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova is a popular place for its public transit. However, Villach is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Arachova has a few public transit options. There are some public buses in the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.

Is Arachova or Villach a more walkable city?

Arachova
Villach

Arachova is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable town. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Villach is generally not a very walkable town. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Villach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Villach or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Villach?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arachova than Villach 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 Villach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Villach 1-3

One day in Arachova or Villach?

In Arachova, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Villach offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Villach?

In Arachova, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arachova has to offer.

Villach 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Villach, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Villach?

Arachova is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Villach 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 Villach?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Arachova. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Villach 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Villach 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 Villach is €116. 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 Villach in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Villach? 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 Villach


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: Villach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Villach 18

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Villach?

Prices for flights to both Villach 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
    Villach 35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Villach 15

Tours and Activities in Villach

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

  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Villach Private Walking Tour with Professional Guide: $250
  • Magic Christmas Tour: $769

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Villach 14


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Villach, we can see that Villach 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 Villach Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Villach?

Villach has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Villach, 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 Villach?

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 Villach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Villach. Many visitors come to Arachova in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Villach for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Villach. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Villach fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Villach this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Villach during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Villach. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Arachova or Villach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Villach. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Villach because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Arachova is a little warmer than Villach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Villach fluctuates around 16°C (60°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 Villach. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 167 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Villach. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Villach 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Villach in the Winter?

Both Villach and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Arachova because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Villach this time of year.

In the winter, Arachova is much warmer than Villach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Villach averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Villach during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Villach. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Villach 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Villach in the Spring?

Both Villach and Arachova during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Villach for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Villach. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Villach fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

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

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Villach. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Villach 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Villach and Arachova

Arachova Villach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)