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

Should you visit Granada or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Granada or Varenna? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Granada

Granada is a beautiful, charming, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Varenna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Granada. Although Granada and Varenna are popular destinations, Granada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Granada is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Varenna attracts visitors for its food. Granada is famous for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also well known for The Alhambra. Varenna is famous for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Granada different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Granada 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 Granada are world-renowned. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

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 Granada or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Varenna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Granada. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Is Granada or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Granada is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Granada has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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 Granada or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Granada is revered around the world. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Granada or Varenna Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Granada and Varenna both have superb trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Granada. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Varenna?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Granada and Varenna.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Granada. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

Varenna offers some nice shopping areas. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Granada or Varenna Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Varenna.

Granada is a family-friendly city. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

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 Granada or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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 Granada frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

Is Granada or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Granada. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other travelers.

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 Granada or Varenna Better for Students?

Granada is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

Many students visit Granada. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Granada and Varenna.

Granada has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

You'll find some public transit in Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Granada or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Granada is a very walkable city. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Granada?

How long in Granada or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Granada or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Granada than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

One day in Granada or Varenna?

In Granada, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Varenna, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Granada or Varenna?

In Granada, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Granada has to offer.

In Varenna, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Varenna has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Varenna?

Granada 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.

Varenna is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Granada or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Granada. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Varenna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Granada and Varenna, we can see that Varenna is more expensive. And not only is Granada much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Granada would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Granada 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 Granada.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Varenna?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Granada 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 Granada or Varenna?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Granada or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Granada is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Varenna averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Varenna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Varenna. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Granada during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

In October, Granada is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Granada usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Varenna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. Granada is much warmer than Varenna in the winter. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Varenna. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Granada as well as Varenna. Many travelers come to Granada for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Granada is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Varenna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Granada usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Granada