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

Should you visit Cannes 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 Cannes and Varenna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cannes

Cannes is a lavish, glitzy, and opulent resort city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Varenna

Varenna is a pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Cannes and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cannes or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cannes. Although Cannes and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Cannes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cannes is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cannes is more touristy than Varenna and is popular for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also home to Boulevard de la Croisette. Varenna is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Cannes different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna is very good for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cannes and Varenna can be difficult as they are each first-rate in their own way.

Cannes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Varenna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is Cannes or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Cannes has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

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 Cannes or Varenna Better for Music?

Cannes is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Varenna is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Cannes. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Varenna is not a live music destination.

Is Cannes or Varenna Better for Resorts?

Cannes is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Cannes for its luxury resorts. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Cannes or Varenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cannes is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cannes or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Cannes is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Cannes for it's beautiful beaches. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Cannes or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Cannes 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 Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Cannes or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Cannes 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.

Cannes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cannes or Varenna?

Cannes is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Cannes draws large crowds to its stores. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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

Is Cannes or Varenna Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Cannes or Varenna.

Cannes is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Varenna is a family-friendly resort 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 Cannes or Varenna Better for Couples?

Both Cannes and Varenna are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Cannes has plenty to offer. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Varenna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Is Cannes or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna is very good for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

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

Both Cannes and Varenna offer good public transit options.

Cannes has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

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 Cannes or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is an amazing village to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its walkability.

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

Cannes is very walkable. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Cannes?

How long in Cannes or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cannes or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cannes than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cannes, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Varenna than Cannes 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 Cannes or Varenna?

In Cannes, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cannes or Varenna?

In Cannes, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Cannes has to offer.

Varenna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cannes or Varenna?

Cannes is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Cannes or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cannes. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Cannes. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Varenna. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Bicycle Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cannes and Varenna, we can see that Varenna is more expensive. And not only is Cannes much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cannes would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cannes 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 Cannes.

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

Which is Bigger, Cannes or Varenna?

Cannes has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Cannes 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 Cannes 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 Cannes or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Cannes during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cannes in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cannes usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Cannes gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cannes and Varenna. Most visitors come to Cannes for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cannes is a little warmer than Varenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cannes averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cannes gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cannes usually receives less rain than Varenna. Cannes gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cannes or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cannes as well as Varenna. The winter months attract visitors to Cannes because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, 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, Cannes is much warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cannes in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Cannes usually gets more rain in January than Varenna. Cannes gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Cannes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cannes this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Varenna for the natural beauty.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In April, Cannes usually receives less rain than Varenna. Cannes gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Cannes