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

Should you visit Girona or Varenna?

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 Varenna. 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 ancient, charming, and beautiful 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.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Girona and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Girona or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Girona than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Girona is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Varenna is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Girona and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Girona is well known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine. Also, Girona is famous for The Girona Cathedral.

How is Girona different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Girona. 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 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 Girona or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna 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 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.

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 Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Both Girona and Varenna are respectable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Girona specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

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.

Is Girona or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Girona is revered around the world. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Girona or Varenna Better for Hiking?

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

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Girona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Girona or Varenna?

Girona is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna 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 Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Girona or Varenna Better for Families?

Varenna is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Varenna is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

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 Varenna Better for Couples?

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

Varenna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

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 Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Girona and Varenna 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 Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Girona or Varenna Better for Students?

Girona is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna 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

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Both Girona and Varenna offer notable 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.

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

Is Girona or Varenna a more walkable city?

Girona and Varenna both are terrific when exploring on foot.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Girona?

How long in Girona or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Girona or Varenna to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Girona. 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 Girona 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 Girona.

One day in Girona or Varenna?

In Girona, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Girona or Varenna?

In Girona, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Girona has to offer.

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

Five days in Girona or Varenna?

Girona is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Varenna. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Girona. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Girona. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Varenna. This village 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 Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Girona and Varenna, we can see that Varenna 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 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 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 Varenna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Girona or Varenna?

Girona has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Girona 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.

When is the best time to visit Girona or Varenna?

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 Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Girona during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Girona because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

Girona is around the same temperature as Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

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

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Girona usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Girona gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Girona or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Girona and Varenna. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Girona this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Girona is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Girona in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

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

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Girona usually receives less rain than Varenna. Girona gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Girona or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Girona as well as Varenna. Many travelers come to Girona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Varenna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Varenna can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Girona is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 8°C (46°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

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

Girona usually gets less rain in January than Varenna. Girona gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Girona or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Girona are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Girona in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Varenna for the natural beauty during these months.

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

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In April, Girona usually receives less rain than Varenna. Girona gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Girona