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

Should you visit Chania or Villach?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Villach, 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Villach

Villach is a nature-filled, outdoorsy, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Chania and Villach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Villach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chania. Although Chania and Villach are popular destinations, Chania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chania is very popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Villach attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Chania is more touristy than Villach and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also well known for The Venetian Harbor. Villach is famous for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

How is Chania different from Villach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chania offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Villach is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.

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

Chania is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its restaurants.

For foodies, Chania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Villach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Is Chania or Villach Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Villach has a few options to choose from. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.

Is Chania or Villach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Villach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Chania has a few good snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Villach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Villach Better for Beaches?

Chania is terrific for the beach. However, Villach is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Chania. 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.

Villach is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Villach Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Villach is a good destination for visiting its old town. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

Is Chania or Villach Better for Hiking?

Chania and Villach are both places where visitors can find very good 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 Villach for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Villach?

Chania is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

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.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.

Is Chania or Villach Better for Families?

Chania and Villach are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Chania is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Villach is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.

Is Chania or Villach Better for Couples?

Chania and Villach are both very good 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.

Villach is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

Is Chania or Villach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania and Villach are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

Villach is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

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

Chania is a popular place for its public transit. However, Villach is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Chania has a few public transit options. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

Public transit is mostly limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.

Is Chania or Villach a more walkable city?

Chania is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

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.

Villach is generally not a very walkable city. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Villach or Chania?

How long in Chania or Villach?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chania and Villach. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chania than in Villach. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-3 days is enough time in Villach.

Families should spend more time in Chania than Villach. 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 Villach. 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 Villach 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 Villach?

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 Villach. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Villach?

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.

Villach 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 Villach?

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 Villach. 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 Villach?

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 nightlife and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Villach. This town 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Villach?

Villach has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Villach, 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 Villach?

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 Villach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Villach. Many visitors come to Chania in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Villach for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Chania is around the same temperature as Villach in the summer. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 26°C (80°F) in July, and Villach fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Villach this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Villach during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Villach. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Villach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chania as well as Villach. Most visitors come to Chania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Villach because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chania is a little warmer than Villach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chania in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Villach averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Villach. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 167 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in October than Villach. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Villach in the Winter?

Both Villach and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Chania because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Villach this time of year.

In January, Chania is generally much warmer than Villach. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 12°C (54°F), and Villach fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Villach during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chania. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Villach. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Villach in the Spring?

Both Villach and Chania during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Villach for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Chania is a little warmer than Villach in the spring. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Villach fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Chania. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Villach. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 177 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Villach. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Villach and Chania