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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Varenna? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around 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 scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Bordeaux and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bordeaux is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Varenna is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Bordeaux is more touristy than Varenna and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Bordeaux different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Bordeaux and Varenna.

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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 Bordeaux or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Bordeaux and Varenna both to be amazing destinations.

For foodies, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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.

Is Bordeaux or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

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 Bordeaux or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is a good destination for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Bordeaux. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Bordeaux or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Varenna?

Bordeaux is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Bordeaux is well-known for its shopping. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Many visitors go to Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Bordeaux or Varenna Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bordeaux or Varenna.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bordeaux. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Varenna offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Bordeaux or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Bordeaux is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Is Bordeaux or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux and Varenna are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

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.

Is Bordeaux or Varenna Better for Students?

Bordeaux is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

Many students visit Bordeaux. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Bordeaux is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

You'll find some public transit in Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Bordeaux or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bordeaux or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bordeaux than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bordeaux, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux than Varenna 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 Bordeaux.

One day in Bordeaux or Varenna?

In Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful village of Varenna offers food and shopping. 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 Bordeaux or Varenna?

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

Varenna is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this village 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 Varenna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Bordeaux or Varenna?

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Varenna is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Bordeaux or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Varenna is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 village offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Varenna?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux or Varenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Bordeaux is cooler than Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, 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 Bordeaux this time of the year. In the summer, Bordeaux often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Bordeaux usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Varenna in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Bordeaux is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bordeaux in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during autumn. Bordeaux gets 165 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. In October, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Varenna. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Varenna in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. In January, Bordeaux is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 6°C (43°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. Bordeaux usually gets more rain in January than Varenna. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Varenna. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

Bordeaux is cooler than Varenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during spring. Bordeaux gets 190 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, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Varenna. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Bordeaux