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

Should you visit Geneva or Verona?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Geneva and Verona. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Geneva

Geneva is a classy, diverse, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Verona

Verona is a beautiful, stunning, and romantic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Geneva and Verona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Geneva or Verona?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Geneva than Verona. While Verona is larger than Geneva, Geneva has more sights and attractions for tourists. Geneva is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Verona attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Verona is more touristy than Geneva and is popular for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. Geneva is famous for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also well known for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Geneva different from Verona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Geneva or Verona?

Both Geneva and Verona have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Verona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

Is the Food Better in Geneva or Verona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Geneva and Verona can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Geneva makes for a great culinary experience. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Verona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Is Geneva or Verona Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Geneva or Verona has a better nightlife scene.

Geneva has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

If you're looking for night time activities Verona has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

Is Geneva or Verona Better for its Old Town?

Verona is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Verona?

Geneva is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Geneva draws large crowds to its stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Many visitors go to Verona to go shopping. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Is Geneva or Verona Better for Families?

Geneva is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Geneva or Verona Better for Couples?

Verona is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Verona frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Geneva or Verona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Verona is a good destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Verona. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Verona Better for Students?

Geneva is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Geneva is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Verona is a good city to visit for students. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

Is Geneva or Verona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Geneva is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Geneva can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

Verona has a few public transit options. ATV operates buses through the city.

Is Geneva or Verona a more walkable city?

Geneva and Verona both are superb when exploring on foot.

Geneva is very walkable. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

Verona is a very walkable city. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

For even more information, also check out Is Geneva Worth Visiting? and Is Verona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Verona or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Verona?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Geneva and Verona. In our opinion, Geneva has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Geneva than Verona. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Verona than Geneva 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 Verona.

One day in Geneva or Verona?

Geneva is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Verona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Geneva or Verona?

Geneva is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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.

Verona 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 Geneva or Verona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Geneva. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Verona. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Geneva or Verona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse big city of Geneva. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the stunning destination of Verona. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Geneva or Verona?

Verona has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Geneva. When comparing the sizes of Geneva and Verona, 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 Geneva or Verona?

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 Geneva or Verona in the Summer?

Both Verona and Geneva during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Geneva this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Verona for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Geneva is around the same temperature as Verona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Geneva in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Verona averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Verona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Geneva. In the summer, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Verona. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 286 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Verona. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Verona receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Verona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Verona. Many travelers come to Geneva for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Verona in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Geneva is generally around the same temperature as Verona. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 14°C (56°F), and Verona fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Verona during autumn. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Geneva usually receives around the same amount of rain as Verona. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Verona receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Geneva or Verona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Verona. Many visitors come to Geneva in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Verona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Verona can be very cold during winter. Geneva can get quite cold in the winter. Geneva is much warmer than Verona in the winter. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Verona fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Verona. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 98 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Verona. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Verona receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Verona in the Spring?

Both Verona and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Geneva for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Verona because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Geneva is around the same temperature as Verona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Geneva in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Verona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Geneva usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Verona during spring. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Geneva usually receives around the same amount of rain as Verona. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Verona receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Verona and Geneva