A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Bellagio for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Bellagio?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Bellagio. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a impressive, glamorous, and opulent town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food and shopping.

Athens and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Acropolis
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Athens or Bellagio?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Bellagio are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Bellagio is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Bellagio is more touristy than Athens and is popular for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Bellagio?

Athens
Bellagio

Athens is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.


Is the Food Better in Athens or Bellagio? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens
Bellagio

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

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Bellagio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is Athens or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Bellagio

Athens is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Athens or Bellagio Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Bellagio

Athens is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Bellagio does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Bellagio?

Athens
Bellagio

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Bellagio both offer plenty of good spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Bellagio is a great destination for shopping. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Athens or Bellagio Better for Families?

Athens
Bellagio

Athens is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Athens is a very kid-friendly city. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Bellagio offers lots of family activities. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is Athens or Bellagio Better for Couples?

Athens
Bellagio

Bellagio is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Bellagio is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.


Is Athens or Bellagio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Bellagio

Athens is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Athens or Bellagio Better for Students?

Athens
Bellagio

Athens is a great destination for students. However, Bellagio is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Bellagio is not popular with students.

Is Athens or Bellagio Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens
Bellagio

Athens is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

While Bellagio offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.


Is Athens or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Athens
Bellagio

Bellagio is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Bellagio is a very easy town to get around on foot. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored on foot.

Athens is very walkable. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Athens?

How long in Athens or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Bellagio because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bellagio.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Bellagio 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 Athens.


  • How many days in Athens or Bellagio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Bellagio 1-2

One day in Athens or Bellagio?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Bellagio might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Bellagio?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Bellagio 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.


Five days in Athens or Bellagio?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bellagio. 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.

A week in Athens or Bellagio?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Bellagio is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Bellagio or Athens?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €127, while the average daily cost in Bellagio is €222. 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 Athens and Bellagio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Bellagio 166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Bellagio 332
Compare Hotels in Athens and Bellagio

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Bellagio? 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 Athens


Hotels in Bellagio


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: Athens Hotel Prices and Bellagio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Bellagio 9.02
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    6.40
  • Metro
    1.50
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

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

  • Athens to Piraeus (Athens) Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Private Athens International Airport to Piraeus Port Transfer: $80
  • "Luxurious Transfer": $47
  • AIRPORT TRANSFER in Athens : $28
  • Airport Private Transfers: $79
  • Airport Transfer: $109
  • Airport Transfer/ Athens Greece: $28
  • Airport Transfer: Athens Airport ATH to Athens by Business Car: $80
  • Airport Transfer: Athens Airport ATH to Athens by Luxury Car: $126
  • Airport Transfer: Athens to Athens Airport ATH by Luxury Van: $113
  • Airport transfer: $131
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Athens Airport ATH to Athens City by Minibus: $109

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bellagio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bellagio:

  • From Bellagio : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $382
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Bellagio: $351

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Bellagio?

Prices for flights to both Bellagio and Athens 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
    Athens 37
    Bellagio 46
Typical Food Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • Souvlaki
    2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $24
  • Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $42
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $46
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $51
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $52
  • Middle-eastern Cuisine Cooking Class with Meal: $52
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide and 7 Tastings: $57
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $60
  • Alternative, truly authentic food tour in secret Athens: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Class with Meal: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Classes in Athina: $64
  • Light Lunch Tasting & Cooking Demo: $67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bellagio

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

  • Como Lake: cooking class Italian style in Bellagio: $191
  • Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi: $209
  • Cooking Class with Lunch with the chef: $534

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Bellagio -

Tours and Activities in Athens

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

  • Meouzo Online City Tour: $3.20
  • Self-guided First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.21
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour into Byzantine Gems: $4.60
  • A Neoclassical Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • 360 Virtual tour of Ancient Athens: $6.00
  • Herakleidon Museum of Ancient Greek Technology: Entry Ticket: $6.42
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Athens: $6.53
  • Ancient Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Ancient Agora of Athens Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The Best of Piraeus: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Greece: Tourist eSIM Data Plan: $7.18
  • Ancient Agora: Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.48

Tours and Activities in Bellagio

Here are a few actual costs in Bellagio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bellagio Walking Tour + Lunch + Villa Balbianello: $315
  • Lake Como Sunset Boat Tour with Prosecco: $118
  • Vintage Wooden Boat Rowing Experience on Lake Como: $187
  • Exclusive Lake Como Boat Tour From Bellagio: $428
  • From Milan: Bellagio & Lake Como Small Group Tour: $127
  • From Milan: Como & Bellagio Guided Tour & Lake Como Cruise: $106
  • Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour: $123
  • Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour: $93
  • Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries: $78
  • Lake Como: Villa Melzi Garden Entry Ticket with Ferries: $71
  • Shared Boat Tour from Bellagio: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Bellagio 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

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

  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $17
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • Premium Wine Tastings: $35
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $43
  • Athens Wine Tasting: $44
  • Old Town Athens Wine Tasting: $52
  • Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $52
  • 2 Hours Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $53
  • Best rated Acropolis Wine Tasting : $53
  • Greek food and wine tasting: $53
  • Rare Greek Wine Tasting w/Sommelier by the Acropolis: $59
  • Wine Tasting and Storytelling in a Historical Square in Athina: $60


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Bellagio, we can see that Bellagio is more expensive. And not only is Athens much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Athens would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Athens 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 Bellagio would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bellagio than you might in Athens.

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


Which is Bigger, Athens or Bellagio?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 250 times larger than the population of Bellagio. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Bellagio, 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 Athens or Bellagio?

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 Athens or Bellagio in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Bellagio. Most visitors come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bellagio because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. Athens usually gets less rain in July than Bellagio. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Bellagio 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Athens or Bellagio in the Autumn?

Both Bellagio and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Athens because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bellagio this time of year.

Athens is a little warmer than Bellagio in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Bellagio fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Bellagio 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Athens or Bellagio in the Winter?

Both Bellagio and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bellagio for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bellagio. In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Bellagio. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Bellagio averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Bellagio. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Bellagio 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Athens or Bellagio in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Bellagio. Many travelers come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bellagio in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Athens is generally a little warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Bellagio receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Bellagio 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Athens

Athens Bellagio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)