A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Girona vs. Lake Garda for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Girona or Lake Garda?

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 Lake Garda. 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 charming, beautiful, and colorful city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a scenic, playful, and fun lake. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Girona and Lake Garda: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Girona or Lake Garda?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lake Garda than Girona, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lake Garda is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking, while Girona is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Lake Garda is more touristy than Girona and is popular for its beautiful setting, charming towns, and fun amusement parks. Also, Lake Garda is famous for Sirmione. Girona is well known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Girona different from Lake Garda?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lake Garda. While most people come for the natural beauty, there are also great castles that you can explore. Castello Scaligeri, Grotte di Catullo, and Castello Scaligero.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Girona and Lake Garda can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Girona. 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.

Lake Garda has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many great local restaurants in the area. Most make use of local ingredients such as olive oil, lemons, wine, and fish. Pasta and risotto are both popular throughout the area as well.

Is Girona or Lake Garda Better for Nightlife?

Lake Garda is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Lake Garda offers plenty to do in the evening. You'll find clubs and bars in various towns that make for a great nightlife scene. You'll even find beach parties and fireworks shows during the most popular times of the year.

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 Lake Garda Better for Beaches?

Lake Garda is a well-known place for the beache. However, Girona is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Lake Garda for it's beautiful beaches. Despite there being no ocean, there are many great swimming beaches in the area. Many have sand and great places to relax. There's also plenty of watersports to choose from.

Girona is not a beach destination.

Is Girona or Lake Garda Better for its Old Town?

Girona is terrific for its old town. However, Lake Garda does not have a historic old town.

Girona has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Lake Garda does not have a historic old town.

Is Girona or Lake Garda Better for Hiking?

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

Lake Garda is a popular spot for hiking. There are many great walking and hiking trails in the area that take you through the natural beauty, connect the charming towns, and offer spectacular viewpoints.

Girona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Girona or Lake Garda?

Girona is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Girona is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Lake Garda to go shopping. Many villages around the lake are great for shopping. You'll find clothing stores, jewelry shops, and souvenir vendors with something for everyone.

Is Girona or Lake Garda Better for Families?

Lake Garda is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Lake Garda is very family-friendly. The nearby amusement parks, including Gardaland, make this a popular destination for families. The area also has many places to swim, trails to explore, and castles to experience. Kids and adults alike will love this amazing kid-friendly area.

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 Lake Garda Better for Couples?

Girona and Lake Garda both superb destinations for a couple.

Girona is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Lake Garda makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find a lot of families in the area because of the amusement parks, but that doesn't mean that this isn't a romantic and beautiful spot for couples. There are many charming towns to explore and scenic viewpoints to check out. There are also excellent romantic restaurants that you should try.

Is Girona or Lake Garda Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Girona and Lake Garda are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Lake Garda. There are a few good hostels around the lake that are affordable and fun. The area also see enough backpackers to keep the atmosphere fun and social.

Is Girona or Lake Garda Better for Students?

Girona is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake Garda 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

Lake Garda is not popular with students.

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

Lake Garda is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lake Garda can get you to some places easily. There are ferries, buses, and trains in the area.

Girona has some 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.

Is Girona or Lake Garda a more walkable city?

Girona is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Lake Garda 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 Girona. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

Lake Garda is a very walkable destination. There are walking trails that connect the villages around the lake and this how many people choose to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Lake Garda or Girona?

How long in Girona or Lake Garda?

It's fun to spend time in either Girona or Lake Garda. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lake Garda 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 Lake Garda.

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

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

One day in Girona or Lake Garda?

With museums and food around the colorful city of Girona, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Girona, one day is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lake Garda. 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 Lake Garda?

With food and shopping around the destination of Girona, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Lake Garda 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 Lake Garda?

Girona, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake Garda. 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 Lake Garda?

Girona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun destination of Lake Garda. This lake 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 Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Girona or Lake Garda?

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 Lake Garda in the Summer?

Both Lake Garda and Girona during the summer are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Girona this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lake Garda for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Girona is around the same temperature as Lake Garda in the summer. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Lake Garda, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Girona. In the summer, Girona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lake Garda. Girona gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 286 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets less rain in July than Lake Garda. Girona gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Girona or Lake Garda in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Girona and Lake Garda. Many travelers come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lake Garda in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Girona is a little warmer than Lake Garda. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Girona in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Lake Garda averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Girona usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during autumn. Girona gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Girona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lake Garda. Girona gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Girona or Lake Garda in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Girona as well as Lake Garda. Many visitors come to Girona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Lake Garda for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lake Garda can be very cold during winter. In January, Girona is generally much warmer than Lake Garda. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 8°C (46°F), and Lake Garda fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Girona often gets more sunshine than Lake Garda. Girona gets 148 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 98 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets more rain in January than Lake Garda. Girona gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Girona or Lake Garda in the Spring?

Both Lake Garda and Girona are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Girona for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lake Garda because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Girona is around the same temperature as Lake Garda in the spring. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Girona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lake Garda during spring. Girona gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Girona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lake Garda. Girona gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lake Garda and Girona