A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chamonix-Mont-Blanc vs. Brescia for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Brescia. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class, spectacular, and awe-inspiring mountain town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and skiing.

Brescia

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Brescia are popular destinations, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brescia attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also well known for Mont Blanc. Brescia is famous for its historic and archeological sights.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brescia and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is renowned for winter skiing. However, Brescia is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is among the best in the world. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Brescia is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Brescia is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Brescia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Brescia.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Dining out in Brescia is an experience not to be missed. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for nightlife. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.


Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Resorts?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is renowned for its resorts. However, Brescia is not a resort destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Brescia is not a resort destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Brescia is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Brescia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Brescia is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Brescia is well-known for its shopping. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very family-friendly place to visit. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Couples?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is renowned for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.


Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Students?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Brescia is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is renowned for its public transit. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a great public transit system. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

While Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia a more walkable city?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Brescia

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very walkable. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.


For even more information, also check out Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

How long in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Brescia 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.


  • How many days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7 
    Brescia 1-2

One day in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find food and skiing. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Brescia, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find skiing and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Brescia for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brescia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The destination of Brescia offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find food and skiing. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brescia. This city offers something for everyone. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is €235, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia? 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


Hotels in Brescia


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: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chamonix (FR) to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Chamonix to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Chamonix-Morzine-Avoriaz to Geneva Airport GVA-Departure Transfer: $147
  • Courmayeur Ski Club to Linate Airport (LIN) - Departure Transfer: $162
  • Courmayeur to Milan Malpensa Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $137
  • Courmayeur to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Courmayeur, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $153
  • Private Departure Transfer from Chamonix to Milan Airport: $170
  • Private Transfer Chamonix and Morzine to Milan Malpensa Airport: $229

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 48
    Brescia 47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Food Tour in Chamonix: $444

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

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

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80
    Brescia 31

Tours and Activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • On an adventure with Rosalie - Nancy-sur-Cluses: $5.45
  • Monte Bianco Skyway Experience : $144
  • Fly in Paragliding! Paragliding experience over Chamonix!: $171
  • Live an eBike Mountain Bike Experience in the Heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc: $195
  • Bespoke Private Chamonix Experience: $196
  • Altitude experience above Chamonix by eBike: $298
  • Chamonix: Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • From Geneva: Chamonix Mont-Blanc Private Guided Tour: $416
  • Geneva: Private Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour: $538

Tours and Activities in Brescia

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

  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $402
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $223
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114
  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Brescia’s Historic Heart: A Family Exploration Tour: $288
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $386
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $197
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Christmastime Walking Tour: $719
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $118
  • CSTRents - Brescia Segway PT Authorized Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64
    Brescia 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver - 10 hours: $823

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Expensive? and Is Brescia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Brescia, 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.