A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arles vs. Varenna for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Arles or Varenna?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Arles and Varenna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Arles

Arles is a charming, compact, and quaint town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Varenna

Varenna is a pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Arles and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Arles or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arles. Although Arles and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Arles has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arles is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Varenna is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also home to L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Arles different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arles or Varenna?

Arles is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Arles are world-renowned. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

Is the Food Better in Arles or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Varenna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Arles or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Arles is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Arles or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Arles is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Arles is revered around the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Arles or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arles or Varenna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Varenna and Arles.

Many visitors go to Arles to go shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Varenna. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Arles or Varenna Better for Families?

Varenna is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Arles or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Varenna has plenty to offer. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

Arles is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Arles or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Varenna is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Arles or Varenna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arles and Varenna.

You'll find some public transit in Arles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

While Varenna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Arles or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Arles Worth Visiting? and Is Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Arles?

How long in Arles or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Arles or Varenna to fill your time. In our opinion, Varenna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Varenna than Arles. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Varenna than Arles 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 Varenna.

One day in Arles or Varenna?

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Varenna, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Arles or Varenna?

In Arles, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

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

Five days in Arles or Varenna?

Arles 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.

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

A week in Arles or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the pristine destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Arles and Varenna, we can see that Varenna 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 Arles Expensive? and Is Varenna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Arles or Varenna?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Arles and Varenna, 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 Arles or Varenna?

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 Arles or Varenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arles as well as Varenna. Many visitors come to Arles in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Arles is generally around the same temperature as Varenna. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 24°C (75°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Varenna. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. In the summer, Arles often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Arles usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Arles or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Arles are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Arles is around the same temperature as Varenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Arles usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during autumn. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. It's quite rainy in Arles. In October, Arles usually receives around the same amount of rain as Varenna. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Arles or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Arles during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Arles because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Varenna in the winter. In the winter, Arles is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arles in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Arles often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets less rain in January than Varenna. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Arles or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arles and Varenna. The natural beauty are the main draw to Arles this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Varenna for the natural beauty.

In April, Arles is generally around the same temperature as Varenna. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 13°C (56°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arles usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during spring. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Arles usually receives less rain than Varenna. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Arles