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

Should you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Urbino?

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 Urbino. 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 spectacular, awe-inspiring, and epic mountain town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Urbino

Urbino is a authentic, laid back, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Urbino: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Urbino are both popular with visitors, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Urbino is known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Urbino and is known for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also home to Mont Blanc. Urbino is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for skiing. However, Urbino is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. 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.

Urbino is not a skiing destination.


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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

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

Urbino offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.

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

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

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

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 Urbino is an experience not to be missed. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for its evening party scene. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Many people head to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.


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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Urbino is not a resort destination.

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

Urbino is not a resort destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Urbino is a good destination for its old town. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Urbino. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for hiking. However, Urbino is not a hiking destination.

Around Chamonix-Mont-Blanc visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Urbino is not a hiking destination.


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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Urbino is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Urbino. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

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

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for couples. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great mountain town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

Urbino is a very popular place to visit for couples. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.


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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Urbino is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

Many students visit Urbino. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an amazing mountain town to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is top-notch. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.


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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Urbino

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Urbino?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Urbino to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Urbino 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 Urbino.

Families should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Urbino. 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 Urbino. 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 Urbino 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 Urbino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7 
    Urbino 1-2

One day in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Urbino?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Urbino, 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 Urbino?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Urbino 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 Urbino, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Urbino?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful destination of Urbino 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 Urbino?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the world-class destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Urbino. This town 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Urbino 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 Urbino is €118. 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 Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Urbino

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


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 Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40
    Urbino 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

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

Prices for flights to both Urbino 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
    Urbino 39

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80
    Urbino 15

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:

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

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • From Montefeltro Tour with Truffle Lunch: $396
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • San Marino: Food Tasting Tour: $195

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64
    Urbino 14

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


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

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 Urbino Expensive?.


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

Urbino has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Urbino, 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.