A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Girona vs. Como for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Girona or Como?

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 Girona and Como. 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.

Girona

Girona is a colorful, medieval, and ancient city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Como

Como is a scenic, trendy, and fun lake area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Girona and Como: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Girona or Como?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Como. Although Girona and Como are both popular with visitors, Como has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Como is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Girona is known for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Como is more touristy than Girona and is popular for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also home to the lakeside setting. Girona is popular for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Girona different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Girona or Como?

Girona
Como

Girona is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Girona can be an interesting and educational experience. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.


Is the Food Better in Girona or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Girona
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Como, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

Girona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Girona or Como Better for Nightlife?

Girona
Como

Como is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Como. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Girona or Como Better for Beaches?

Girona
Como

Como is a good destination for the beache. However, Girona is not a beach destination.

Como offers a nice beach destination. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Girona is not a beach destination.


Is Girona or Como Better for its Old Town?

Girona
Como

Girona is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Girona is one of the most recognized in the world. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Girona or Como Better for Hiking?

Girona
Como

Como is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Girona is not a hiking destination.

Como is a popular spot for hiking. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Girona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Girona or Como?

Girona
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Como make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.


Is Girona or Como Better for Families?

Girona
Como

Como is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Como is a very kid-friendly lake area. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Girona or Como Better for Couples?

Girona
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Como is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Girona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Girona or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Girona
Como

Como is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Como is a great lake area to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.


Is Girona or Como Better for Students?

Girona
Como

Girona is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Como is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Como is not popular with students.

Is Girona or Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Girona
Como

Both Girona and Como offer good public transit options.

Girona has a few public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Girona or Como a more walkable city?

Girona
Como

Girona is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Girona. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.


For even more information, also check out Is Girona Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Girona?

How long in Girona or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Girona or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Como due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Girona, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Como than Girona 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 Como.


  • How many days in Girona or Como? Ideal Length of Stay
    Girona 1-2 
    Como 2-4

One day in Girona or Como?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Girona. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Como. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Girona or Como?

Girona is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Como 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 Girona or Como?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful destination of Girona. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Como. 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 Girona or Como?

The ancient city of Girona offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the trendy destination of Como. This lake area 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Como or Girona?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Girona is €140, while the average daily cost in Como is €214. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Girona and Como in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Girona 69
    Como 146
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Girona 138
    Como 292
Compare Hotels in Girona and Como

Looking for a hotel in Girona or Como? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Girona


Hotels in Como


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Girona Hotel Prices and Como Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Girona 49
    Como 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Transfer from Barcelona to girona Airport: $196
  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $262
  • Palamós to Girona Airport (GRO) - Departure Private Transfer : $33
  • Palamós to Barcelona Airport (BNC) Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21
  • Girona Airport (GRO) to Costa Brava - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Como

Also for Como, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Como to Milan hotels: $53
  • Private Transfer From Lecco or Malgrate: $65
  • Private transfer from Mandello del Lario or Abbadia Lariana: $76
  • Bellagio to Malpensa Airport Milan (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $78
  • Private transfer from Lenno or Argegno or Ossuccio: $147
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • Como Private Transfer from Como city centre to Milan Malpensa Airport: $221
  • Argegno: Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $235
  • Private Transfer: Lake Como to Milan Airport MXP in Luxury Van: $236
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243

Is it cheaper to fly into Girona or Como?

Prices for flights to both Como and Girona change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Girona 41
    Como 60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Girona

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Girona.

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Como

For Como, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • COOKING, EATING, LOVING - Lasagna cooking Class for everyone!: $45
  • Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling: $49
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lentate Verbano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lake Como Food Tour - Eat like a real Local: $108
  • Tour and historical dinner: Lake Como 1690: $131
  • Como Food Tour and the Farmers Market: $139
  • Homemade Pasta Cooking Class: $160
  • Como Area: Pizza Training Experience: $160
  • Pizza Training Experience. Como Area: $163
  • Lecco Bike Tour & Pizza Lunch: $163
  • Private Market Tour & Lunch or Dinner with a Local: $171
  • Como Food Tour: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Girona 24
    Como -

Tours and Activities in Girona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Girona are as follows:

  • 2h Guided Kayak Tour on the Costa Brava: $44
  • Basic Dali Experience & Costa Brava from Girona or Palamos: $196
  • Cadaqués & Dalí House-Museum day trip from Girona (tickets included): $158
  • Dalí Museum and Costa Brava Small Group Tour from Girona: $152
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Entrance ticket to the Girona Art Museum: $6.54
  • Fábrica-Museo de Anchoas Solés Ticket: $7.74
  • From Dalí Museum and Girona Small Group Tour: $149
  • From Dalí Museum, Cadaqués and Creus Cape Tour: $149
  • Girona - Private Historic Walking Tour: $374
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11

Tours and Activities in Como

For Como, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Agra Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Como: $8.71
  • Como Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Como Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.94
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • Self-Guided Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • Lake Self-Guided Walking Tour - Downtown Como: $21
  • Como City Audio Guide and Skip The Ticket Line to Brunate: $22
  • Como City Walking Tour : $27
  • City Tour with Duomo Visit and First Basin Lake Cruise: $32
  • Guided City Walking Tour: $32
  • 90minutes Tea Preparation and Tasting Experience in Como: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Girona 9.69
    Como -

Sample the Local Flavors in Girona

Also in Girona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $82
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $149

Sample the Local Flavors in Como

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Como:

  • Domaso: Wine Tasting at the Winery on Como Lake: $60
  • Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake: $70
  • Lake Food and Wine tour in Colico: $114
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $135
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bellagio with Chef Luigi Gandola: $185
  • Food and Wine Tours Lake Como: $196


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

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


Which is Bigger, Girona or Como?

Girona has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Girona and Como, 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 Girona or Como?

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 Girona or Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Girona during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Girona in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Girona is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the summer temperatures in Girona in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Como averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Como, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Girona. In the summer, Girona often gets more sunshine than Como. Girona gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets less rain in July than Como. Girona gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Girona 24°C (75°F) 
    Como 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Girona or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Girona and Como. Most visitors come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Como because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Girona is generally a little warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 16°C (61°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Girona usually receives more sunshine than Como during autumn. Girona gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Como receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Girona usually receives less rain than Como. Girona gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Girona 16°C (61°F) 
    Como 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Girona or Como in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Girona as well as Como. The winter months attract visitors to Girona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Como this time of year.

It's quite cold in Como in the winter. Girona is much warmer than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 8°C (46°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Girona often gets more sunshine than Como. Girona gets 148 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets less rain in January than Como. Girona gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Girona 8°C (46°F) 
    Como 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Girona or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Girona are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Girona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Girona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Como during spring. Girona gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Girona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Como. Girona gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Girona 13°C (55°F) 
    Como 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Como and Girona

Girona Como
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)