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

Should you visit Cadiz or Varenna?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cadiz and Varenna can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a undiscovered, historic, and authentic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Cadiz and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Lake Como
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cadiz or Varenna?

Both Varenna and Cadiz have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Cadiz is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Cadiz and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Cadiz is famous for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Cadiz different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cadiz
Varenna

Both Cadiz and Varenna have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cadiz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

Varenna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Cadiz or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cadiz
Varenna

Varenna is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Varenna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Cadiz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Is Cadiz or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Cadiz
Varenna

Cadiz 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 Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

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 Cadiz or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Cadiz
Varenna

Cadiz is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Cadiz. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Varenna is not a beach destination.


Is Cadiz or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz
Varenna

Cadiz is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Cadiz or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Cadiz
Varenna

Varenna is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Cadiz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Varenna?

Cadiz
Varenna

Cadiz 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.

Cadiz is well-known for its shopping. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

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


Is Cadiz or Varenna Better for Families?

Cadiz
Varenna

Both Cadiz and Varenna are nice to visit with kids.

Cadiz is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.

Varenna is a family-friendly port city. 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 Cadiz or Varenna Better for Couples?

Cadiz
Varenna

Varenna is renowned for romance. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Varenna is a great village for couples, as it 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.

Cadiz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

Is Cadiz or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cadiz
Varenna

Both Cadiz and Varenna are nice destinations for backpackers.

Cadiz is a good port city to visit for backpackers. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

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


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

Cadiz
Varenna

Both Cadiz and Varenna offer nice public transit options.

Cadiz has a few public transit options. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Cadiz or Varenna a more walkable city?

Cadiz
Varenna

Varenna is renowned for its walkability. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Varenna on foot. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Cadiz is a very walkable port city. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cadiz or Varenna to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


  • How many days in Cadiz or Varenna? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cadiz 1-2 
    Varenna 1-2

One day in Cadiz or Varenna?

In Cadiz, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port city 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 pristine 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 Cadiz or Varenna?

In Cadiz, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cadiz 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 Cadiz or Varenna?

Cadiz 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 Cadiz or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cadiz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cadiz. 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 Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Varenna or Cadiz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cadiz is €152, while the average daily cost in Varenna is €164. 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 Cadiz and Varenna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cadiz 77
    Varenna 86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cadiz 154
    Varenna 172
Compare Hotels in Cadiz and Varenna

Looking for a hotel in Cadiz or Varenna? 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 Cadiz


Hotels in Varenna


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: Cadiz Hotel Prices and Varenna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cadiz 30
    Varenna 34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cadiz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cadiz:

  • Private Transfer from/to Cadiz Airport to/from Hotel: $87
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz city hotels to Cadiz Cruise Port: $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Varenna

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

  • Varenna : Private transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $358

Is it cheaper to fly into Cadiz or Varenna?

Prices for flights to both Varenna and Cadiz 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
    Cadiz 45
    Varenna 53
Typical Food Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Dinner and Tapas
    15
  • Lunch for 1
    10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cadiz

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

  • Tapas Food Tour in Jerez de la Frontera: $39
  • Food Tour Cadiz: $75
  • Tabancos Food Tour Jerez: $92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Varenna

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

  • Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $155

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cadiz 27
    Varenna 34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Cadiz Sightseeing Tour
    15

Tours and Activities in Cadiz

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

  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Cadiz : $87
  • 3 Hour Tapa and Cultural Experience Walking Tour: $120
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Cádiz: $17
  • Audioguided Tour of Cádiz Monumental, at your pace: $4.27
  • Cádiz 2:45h Bike Tour: $38
  • Cádiz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Cádiz: Cadiz Milenaria Guided Tour: $13
  • Cádiz: Guided Bike Tour: $37
  • Cádiz: Local Tapas Experience: $160
  • Cádiz: Mysteries and Legends Walking Tour with Souvenir: $25
  • Cádiz: Private Guided Tour with Flexible Route: $106
  • Cádiz: Private Sun Cruise for 2 with Aperitivo and Wine: $481

Tours and Activities in Varenna

For Varenna, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Lake Como Shared Boat Tour: $32
  • Lake Como Sightseeing Cruise (90 minutes): $43
  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $112
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $118
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $150
  • Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como with Stops & Drinks: $491
  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $664
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,551

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cadiz 28
    Varenna 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Cadiz

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cadiz:

  • Private Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Bike Rental: $107
  • Countryside Olive Oil & Wine Tasting: $128

Sample the Local Flavors in Varenna

Also in Varenna, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Castello di Vezio: $112
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $134


When comparing the travel costs between Cadiz 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 Cadiz Expensive? and Is Varenna Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Varenna?

Cadiz has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Cadiz 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 Cadiz 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 Cadiz or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Cadiz during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cadiz is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cadiz in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Varenna averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Varenna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the summer, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cadiz usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F) 
    Varenna 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Varenna. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Varenna in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cadiz is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 20°C (68°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during autumn. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Varenna. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F) 
    Varenna 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Varenna. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Varenna can be very cold during winter. Cadiz is much warmer than Varenna in the winter. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in January than Varenna. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F) 
    Varenna 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Varenna because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cadiz is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cadiz in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Varenna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during spring. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In April, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Varenna. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F) 
    Varenna 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Varenna and Cadiz

Cadiz Varenna
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)