A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Athens or Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia. 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a traditional, understated, and classic seaside town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Athens and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Athens or Ventimiglia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Ventimiglia are popular destinations, Athens has more sights and attractions for tourists. Athens is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia attracts visitors for its beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Athens is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis. Ventimiglia is famous for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Athens
Ventimiglia

Athens is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Athens on the map. 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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Athens
Ventimiglia

Athens is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Athens or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Ventimiglia

Athens is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

People head to Athens just to party. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Athens or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Athens
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a good destination for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Ventimiglia offers a nice beach destination. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Athens is not a beach destination.


Is Athens or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Ventimiglia

Athens is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Athens is revered around the world. 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Ventimiglia?

Athens
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Athens
Ventimiglia

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

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

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.


Is Athens or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Athens
Ventimiglia

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

Ventimiglia is a great seaside town if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Ventimiglia

Athens is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Athens is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Athens or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Athens
Ventimiglia

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

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.


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

Athens
Ventimiglia

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

Athens offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

While Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Athens or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Athens
Ventimiglia

Athens and Ventimiglia are superb when it comes to walkability.

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

Ventimiglia is very walkable. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Athens?

How long in Athens or Ventimiglia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Ventimiglia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Ventimiglia. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Athens or Ventimiglia?

Athens is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Athens or Ventimiglia?

Athens is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Athens is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Ventimiglia?

Athens is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia is €121. 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 Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Athens and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Ventimiglia? 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 Ventimiglia


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 Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Ventimiglia 49
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

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38
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 Ventimiglia

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

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Ventimiglia 27

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 Ventimiglia

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

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Ventimiglia 7.19

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 comparing the travel costs between Athens and Ventimiglia, we can see that Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Ventimiglia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Athens or Ventimiglia?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Ventimiglia. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Athens is a little warmer than Ventimiglia in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ventimiglia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Ventimiglia. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Ventimiglia. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Athens or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

Both Ventimiglia and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Athens is a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ventimiglia. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Athens or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

Both Ventimiglia and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Athens is generally a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Ventimiglia. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Ventimiglia. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Athens or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Ventimiglia. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Athens is a little warmer than Ventimiglia in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Athens

Athens Ventimiglia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)