A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chania vs. Bergamo for Food, Attractions, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Chania or Bergamo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Bergamo, 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 historic, idyllic, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a fascinating, beautiful, and under-rated city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chania and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Bergamo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Bergamo. While Bergamo is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Bergamo is known for its impressive beauty. Chania is more touristy than Bergamo and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Chania different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bergamo 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 Bergamo?

Chania is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Chania can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergamo. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.

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

Chania is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Bergamo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Chania and Bergamo.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bergamo has a few options to choose from. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bergamo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Chania has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Bergamo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

Chania is an amazing city to visit for the beache. However, Bergamo is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Chania are among the best in the world. 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.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Chania is notable for its old town. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors go to Chania to see the historical old town. 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.

Bergamo has an old town worth visiting. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for Hiking?

Chania is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergamo is not a hiking destination.

Chania is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Bergamo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Bergamo?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bergamo 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 Bergamo. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for Families?

Chania is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city 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.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Chania is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Chania is a very popular place to visit for couples. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Bergamo is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Bergamo is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Chania or Bergamo Better for Students?

Bergamo is a nice place to visit for students. However, Chania is not popular with students.

Bergamo is popular with students. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

Chania is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Bergamo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

Is Chania or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Chania and Bergamo both are superb when exploring on foot.

Chania is a very walkable destination. 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.

Bergamo is very walkable. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Chania?

How long in Chania or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chania and Bergamo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chania than in Bergamo. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

Families should spend more time in Chania than Bergamo. 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 Bergamo. 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 Bergamo 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.

One day in Chania or Bergamo?

In Chania, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This 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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bergamo. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chania or Bergamo?

In Chania, you'll find museums 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.

Bergamo 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 Bergamo?

Chania is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Bergamo. 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 Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Chania. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Bergamo. This city 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 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chania and Bergamo, we can see that Bergamo 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 Bergamo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bergamo 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 Bergamo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chania or Bergamo?

Bergamo has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Bergamo, 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 Bergamo?

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 Bergamo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Bergamo. The summer months attract visitors to Chania because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bergamo this time of year.

In July, Chania is generally a little warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bergamo this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Bergamo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chania as well as Bergamo. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bergamo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Chania is a little warmer than Bergamo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Bergamo fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 137 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bergamo. Chania usually gets less rain in October than Bergamo. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Bergamo in the Winter?

Both Bergamo and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bergamo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bergamo can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Chania is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chania. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Bergamo. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Bergamo in the Spring?

Both Bergamo and Chania during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chania in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bergamo for the natural beauty during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Chania. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Bergamo. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Chania