A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chania vs. Bellagio for Food, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chania or Bellagio?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Bellagio, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chania

Chania is a charming, picturesque, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a beautiful, impressive, and glamorous town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and shopping.

Chania and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Chania or Bellagio?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chania. Although Chania and Bellagio are both popular with visitors, Chania has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chania is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Bellagio is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Bellagio is more touristy than Chania and is known for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. Chania is popular for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor.

How is Chania different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chania or Bellagio?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Chania. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.


Is the Food Better in Chania or Bellagio? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Chania have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

Bellagio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is Chania or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Chania has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Chania or Bellagio Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bellagio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Chania. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Bellagio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Chania or Bellagio Better for Beaches?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Chania is considered to be a world-class beach destination. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Bellagio Better for its Old Town?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is a great destination for its old town. However, Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

Chania is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

Is Chania or Bellagio Better for Hiking?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bellagio is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Bellagio is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Bellagio?

Chania
Bellagio

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bellagio and Chania.

Many visitors go to Chania to go shopping. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bellagio. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Chania or Bellagio Better for Families?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chania is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

Bellagio offers lots of family activities. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is Chania or Bellagio Better for Couples?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania and Bellagio are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Chania frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Bellagio is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.


Is Chania or Bellagio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania
Bellagio

Chania is a great destination for backpackers. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a great city to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Chania or Bellagio Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chania
Bellagio

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Chania and Bellagio.

You'll find some public transit in Chania, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

While Bellagio offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.

Is Chania or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Chania
Bellagio

Bellagio is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Bellagio on foot is easy. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored on foot.

Chania is very walkable. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.


For even more information, also check out Is Chania Worth Visiting? and Is Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Chania?

How long in Chania or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chania or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chania than Bellagio because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bellagio.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chania than Bellagio 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 Chania.


  • How many days in Chania or Bellagio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chania 3-4 
    Bellagio 1-2

One day in Chania or Bellagio?

The city of Chania offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Bellagio might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Bellagio?

Chania is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Bellagio is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Chania or Bellagio?

Chania is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bellagio. 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 Chania or Bellagio?

Chania is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Bellagio is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Bellagio or Chania?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chania is €93, while the average daily cost in Bellagio is €222. 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 Chania and Bellagio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chania 46
    Bellagio 166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chania 92
    Bellagio 332
Compare Hotels in Chania and Bellagio

Looking for a hotel in Chania or Bellagio? 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 Chania


Hotels in Bellagio


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: Chania Hotel Prices and Bellagio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chania 15
    Bellagio 9.02

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chania

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chania:

  • Arrival Transfer Chania Airport to Chania, Rethimno or Heraklion: $25
  • Bali: Shared Transfer from Chania/Heraklion Airport to Bali: $33
  • Balos Beach Private Roundtrip Transfer with Free Time: $235
  • Chania Int Airport (CHQ): Transfer to Heraklion Cruise Port: $351
  • Chania to Elafonissi Beach/ Cretan Villages Private Transfer: $332
  • Chania to Faistos Palace Private Transfer Full Day Tour: $529
  • Chania to Imbros Gorge Private Full Day Transfer: $364
  • Chania to Irini Gorge & Sougia Village: Private Transfer: $406
  • Chania to Knossos Palace & Heraklion City Private Transfer: $529
  • Cretan Folklore Night with Buffet and transfer: $31
  • Elafonisi Beach Day Trip with Elos Stop and Transfer: $34
  • Falassarna Beach Sunset Trip with Transfer: $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bellagio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bellagio:

  • From Bellagio : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $382
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Bellagio: $351

Is it cheaper to fly into Chania or Bellagio?

Prices for flights to both Bellagio and Chania 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
    Chania 32
    Bellagio 46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chania

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

  • The Delicious Chania PRIVATE Street Food Tour : $87
  • CHANIA WALKING FOOD TOURS – 3 HOUR WALKING TOUR: $107
  • CHANIA CRETE COOKING CLASSES – 3 HOURS: $107
  • Chania Cooking Class-The Authentic: $118
  • Guided Walking Food Tour with Tasting: $123
  • From The Ultimate Food Tour Of Chania Villages: $123
  • Wine, Food, and Sunset Tour with 3-Course Dinner: $127
  • From Agioi Theodoroi Catamaran Dinner Cruise: $127
  • Sunset Craft Beer & Food Tour: $128
  • Sunset Craft Beer & Food Tour - Chania: $131
  • Horse riding,falasarna sunset,dinner in a tavern,drone video: $214

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bellagio

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

  • Como Lake: cooking class Italian style in Bellagio: $191
  • Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi: $209
  • Cooking Class with Lunch with the chef: $534

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chania 21
    Bellagio -

Tours and Activities in Chania

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Chania's Turbulent History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Discover Chania's Echoes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Archaeological Museum Entry Ticket and Audio Guide: $11
  • Full-Day Tour Gramvousa Balos Bay from Rethymno with French Guide: $19
  • Gramvousa Island & Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Rethymno English & German guide: $19
  • Shared Falassarna Beach Tour Visit from Rethymno: $25
  • Skip the Line: Limnoupolis Water Admission Ticket: $27
  • Full Day Guided Botanic Garden Tour in Spili, Preveli and Plakias: $27
  • From Rethymno Areas: Full-Day Knossos and Heraklion Guided Tour: $27
  • Chania Town: Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise to Thodorou & Lazareta: $29

Tours and Activities in Bellagio

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

  • Shared Boat Tour from Bellagio: $43
  • Lake Como: Villa Melzi Garden Entry Ticket with Ferries: $71
  • Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries: $78
  • Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour: $93
  • From Milan: Como & Bellagio Guided Tour & Lake Como Cruise: $106
  • Lake Como Sunset Boat Tour with Prosecco: $118
  • Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour: $123
  • From Milan: Bellagio & Lake Como Small Group Tour: $127
  • Vintage Wooden Boat Rowing Experience on Lake Como: $187
  • Bellagio Walking Tour + Lunch + Villa Balbianello: $315
  • Exclusive Lake Como Boat Tour From Bellagio: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chania 18
    Bellagio 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Chania

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chania:

  • Cretan wine tasting, hosted in French: $91
  • Milia Mountain Tour w/Lunch Olive Oil/Wine Tastings: $144
  • Wines, Olives, and History: A Private Wine Tour from Chania: $791


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

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


Which is Bigger, Chania or Bellagio?

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

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 Chania or Bellagio in the Summer?

Both Bellagio and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bellagio for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chania is generally a little warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Bellagio. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chania 26°C (80°F) 
    Bellagio 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Chania or Bellagio in the Autumn?

Both Bellagio and Chania during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Chania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bellagio in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Chania is a little warmer than Bellagio in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Bellagio fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun.

Bellagio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chania usually gets less rain in October than Bellagio. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chania 20°C (68°F) 
    Bellagio 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Chania or Bellagio in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Bellagio. Many visitors come to Chania in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bellagio for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bellagio can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Chania is much warmer than Bellagio. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Bellagio averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Chania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bellagio during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Bellagio. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chania 12°C (54°F) 
    Bellagio 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Chania or Bellagio in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chania as well as Bellagio. Most visitors come to Chania for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Bellagio because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Chania is generally a little warmer than Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. Chania usually gets less rain in April than Bellagio. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chania 17°C (62°F) 
    Bellagio 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Chania

Chania Bellagio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 25°C (76°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 26°C (80°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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