A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cefalu vs. Varenna for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Attractions

Should you visit Cefalu or Varenna?

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 Cefalu and Varenna. 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.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a coastal, historic, and touristy fishing village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cefalu and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cefalu than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cefalu is better known for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, and small town charm, while Varenna is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, and shopping. Cefalu is well known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Also, Cefalu is famous for the beaches. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Cefalu different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

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

Varenna is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Dining out in Cefalu is an experience not to be missed. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Is Cefalu or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

The respectable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cefalu and Varenna.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cefalu. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

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 Cefalu or Varenna Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Cefalu to choose from. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Cefalu or Varenna Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Cefalu for it's beautiful beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Cefalu or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu 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 Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Cefalu or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Varenna?

Varenna is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Varenna. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Cefalu or Varenna Better for Families?

Both Cefalu and Varenna are notable family-friendly destinations.

Cefalu is a family-friendly fishing village. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. 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 Cefalu or Varenna Better for Couples?

Cefalu and Varenna both terrific destinations for a couple.

Cefalu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

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.

Is Cefalu or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

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

Varenna is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Cefalu or Varenna a more walkable city?

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

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

Cefalu is a very walkable destination. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Varenna?

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

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Cefalu. 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 Varenna than Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Varenna?

Cefalu is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This fishing village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Cefalu or Varenna?

Cefalu might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Varenna?

Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. Since Cefalu is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 beautiful 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 Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Varenna?

Cefalu has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Varenna?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cefalu or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

Cefalu is a little warmer than Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Varenna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In July, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Varenna. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cefalu or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Cefalu during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cefalu is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cefalu in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cefalu usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Varenna. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Varenna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Varenna can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cefalu is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 10°C (51°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Varenna. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cefalu or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Varenna. Many visitors come to Cefalu in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Varenna for the natural beauty during these months.

Cefalu is a little warmer than Varenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the spring, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Cefalu usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Cefalu