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

Should you visit Fez or Varenna?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Fez and Varenna can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Fez

Fez is a winding, busy, and colorful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Fez and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fez or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fez than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fez is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Varenna is more popular for its nightlife and hiking. Varenna is more touristy than Fez and is known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Fez is well known for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes. Also, Fez is famous for the Chouara Tannery.

The Chouara Tannery

How is Fez different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fez or Varenna?

Fez is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Fez are world-renowned. Tucked into the medina are ancient mosques, historic universities, and beautiful gardens. Highlights of the city include Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, Dar Batha (a palace and museum), and Medersa Bou Inania (a former theological college). Another not to be missed sight is the tanneries. You'll likely smell them before you see them, but the history is truly impressive.

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 Fez or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Fez and Varenna offer a number of fantastic restaurants to choose from.

Many restaurants in Fez have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Some of the best food in Morocco can be found in Fez. Head away from the main gates and the major tourist routes to find more local restaurants. Every visitor must try tagine. It's not actually a recipe but instead a cooking pot and technique. If you order a tagine, you'll enjoy a stew like dish that's slow cooked and usually made with lamb or chicken although vegetarian options are often available. Other dishes to try include couscous and pastilla. Pastilla is a pastry covered chicken dish that is seasoned with cinnamon and sugar.

Eat your way through Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is Fez or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Varenna is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Fez is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Varenna. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fez. It's a conservative city and the nightlife reflects that. You'll find some bars in the major hotel chains and you can often find alcohol at the more expensive restaurants.

Is Fez or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Fez is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Fez is revered around the world. The walled medina offers a maze of streets that are lined with shops selling perfume, spices, street food, and trinkets.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Fez or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Fez is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Varenna. 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.

Fez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fez or Varenna?

Fez is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Fez draws large crowds to its stores. Head to the medina and try your hand at negotiating. There are impressive art shops and hidden gems spread between more touristy shops selling souvenir trinkets.

Many visitors go to Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Fez or Varenna Better for Families?

Both Fez and Varenna are notable to visit with kids.

Fez is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy wandering the medina, sampling Moroccan dishes, and trying their hand at bartering for a good price. There are several gardens that offer a quiet oasis from the chaotic streets. There's also baklava and other sweet treats that kids can taste. Many kids enjoy taking a tour to the nearby countryside where they can feed monkeys, hike, and visit local villages.

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 Fez or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Varenna is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Fez frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

Is Fez or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fez is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Fez is extremely popular for backpackers. Prices are very affordable and there are riads that range in price and style. Many restaurants cater to different budgets and most of the entertainment involves wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere.

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 Fez or Varenna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Varenna is a village with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Fez is lacking in options for its public transit.

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Public transit is generally limited in Fez. There's a basic public transportation system with buses and a train station, but you'll likely need to take taxis if you can't walk to a destination. Taxis are affordable and abundant.

Is Fez or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Fez is a very walkable destination. The medina can be explored on foot, but it's easy to get lost so allow a lot of time. There are several walking routes through the medina that are marked with colors but you'll likely find yourself wandering on and off the routes as you explore. Outside of the medina, you'll likely want to take a taxi.

For even more information, also check out Is Fez Worth Visiting? and Is Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Fez?

How long in Fez or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Fez or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fez than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Fez, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fez 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 Fez.

One day in Fez or Varenna?

Because Fez is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With shopping and museums around the scenic destination of Varenna, there's plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the food. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Fez or Varenna?

Because Fez is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Varenna for a weekend. With museums and food around the scenic village of Varenna, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Fez or Varenna?

Fez is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fez has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The destination of Varenna offers food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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.

A week in Fez or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fez. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Fez. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Varenna, a popular village, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Morocco, The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fez and Varenna, we can see that Varenna is more expensive. And not only is Fez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Fez is in Africa and Varenna is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Fez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fez 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 Fez.

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

Which is Bigger, Fez or Varenna?

Fez has a larger population, and is about 1140 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Fez 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.