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

Should you visit Chania or Varenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Varenna, 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 idyllic, charming, and picturesque city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Varenna

Varenna is a pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Chania and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chania. Although Chania and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Chania has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chania is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Varenna is known for its impressive beauty. Chania is popular for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. Varenna is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Chania different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chania is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Varenna. 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.

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

Foodies will find both Chania and Varenna both to be world-class destinations.

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.

Many restaurants in Varenna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is Chania or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Chania is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Chania. 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.

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 Chania or Varenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Chania. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Chania is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Chania offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Chania 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 Chania. 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.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Chania or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Chania and Varenna are both places where visitors can find great hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors go to Varenna for the hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Varenna?

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

Is Chania or Varenna Better for Families?

Chania is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chania is very family-friendly. 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.

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 Chania or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Varenna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Chania is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Is Chania or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Chania or Varenna 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 Varenna.

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 Varenna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Chania or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna 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 Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is 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 Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Chania?

How long in Chania or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chania or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chania than Varenna 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 Varenna.

Families should spend more time in Chania than Varenna. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chania than Varenna 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 Varenna?

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 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 Chania or Varenna?

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.

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 Chania or Varenna?

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 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 Chania or Varenna?

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 pristine 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 Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chania and Varenna, we can see that Varenna 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 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 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 Varenna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chania or Varenna?

Chania has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Chania 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 Chania or Varenna?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Chania or Varenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chania as well as Varenna. Many travelers come to Chania for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Varenna. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the summer, Chania often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Chania usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during autumn. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In October, Chania usually receives less rain than Varenna. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chania or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Chania during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Chania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Varenna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually gets more rain in January than Varenna. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Varenna. The spring months attract visitors to Chania because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

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

In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during spring. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Chania usually receives less rain than Varenna. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Chania