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

Should you visit Graz or Como?

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

Should I visit Graz or Como? 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.

Graz

Graz is a historical, beautiful, and medieval city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Como

Como is a vibrant, scenic, and trendy lake area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Graz and Como: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
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 Graz or Como?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Como than Graz. While Graz is larger than Como, Como has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Como is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Graz is known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Como is more touristy than Graz and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also home to the lakeside setting. Graz is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture.

How is Graz different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Graz
Como

Graz 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 Graz can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

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 Graz or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Graz
Como

Como is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Como is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Dining out in Graz is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Is Graz or Como Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Como

Graz is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Graz has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Graz or Como Better for Beaches?

Graz
Como

Como is a popular place for the beache. However, Graz is not a beach destination.

Como is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Graz is not a beach destination.


Is Graz or Como Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Como

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

The old town of Graz is one of the most recognized in the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Graz or Como Better for Hiking?

Graz
Como

Como is great for hiking. However, Graz is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Como for the hiking trails. 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.

Graz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Como?

Graz
Como

Como is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Como draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Graz. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.


Is Graz or Como Better for Families?

Graz
Como

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Graz or Como.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Como is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Graz or Como Better for Couples?

Graz
Como

Como is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Como makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Graz is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Is Graz or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Como

Como is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Como. 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.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.


Is Graz or Como Better for Students?

Graz
Como

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

Graz is a great city to visit as a student. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Como is not popular with students.

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

Graz
Como

Graz is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Graz. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

You'll find some public transit in Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Graz or Como a more walkable city?

Graz
Como

Graz 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 Graz. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

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 Graz Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Graz?

How long in Graz or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Graz or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Como due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

Couples should spend more time in Como than Graz. 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 Graz 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 Graz or Como? Ideal Length of Stay
    Graz 2-3 
    Como 2-4

One day in Graz or Como?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Graz. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Como. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Graz or Como?

Graz 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Graz or Como?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Graz. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Como. This lake area offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Graz or Como?

The medieval city of Graz offers nightlife 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.

The scenic lake area of Como offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Como or Graz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, 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 Graz and Como in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Como 146
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Como 292
Compare Hotels in Graz and Como

Looking for a hotel in Graz 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 Graz


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: Graz Hotel Prices and Como Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Como 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

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

  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Como

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

  • From Como : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $336
  • From Private 1-Way Transfer to Linate airport: $306
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Como: $275
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243
  • Private Transfer: Lake Como to Milan Airport MXP in Luxury Van: $236
  • Argegno: Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $235
  • Como Private Transfer from Como city centre to Milan Malpensa Airport: $221
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169
  • Private transfer from Lenno or Argegno or Ossuccio: $147
  • Bellagio to Malpensa Airport Milan (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $78

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Como?

Prices for flights to both Como and Graz 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
    Graz 32
    Como 60

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.
    Graz 13
    Como -

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

Tours and Activities in Como

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

  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • “Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco: $131
  • 1 Hour Boat Tour of Lake Como from Bellagio: $43
  • 1 or 2 Hours Private Boat Tour on Lake villas and more: $374
  • 1 or 2 hours Private Boat Tour on Lake Como with Prosecco: $374
  • 2 Hours Como Private Walking Tour: $179
  • 2 Hours Como Private Walking Tour: $182
  • 2 hours Private Boat Tour Como Lake: $933
  • 2 hours Private and Exclusive Clay sculpture Art experience : $294
  • 2 hours Private boat tour on lake of Como: $909
  • 2h Boat Tour with Classic Venetian Limousine in Menaggio: $734
  • 3 Hour Private Kayaking Experience on Lake Como: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Graz 16
    Como -

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 Graz and Como, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Graz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Graz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Graz 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 Graz.

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


Which is Bigger, Graz or Como?

Graz has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Graz 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 Graz or Como?

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 Graz or Como in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Como. Many travelers come to Graz for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Como in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Como this time of the year. In Graz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Graz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Como during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Graz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Como. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Como 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Graz or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Graz as well as Como. Many visitors come to Graz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Como for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Graz is generally cooler than Como. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Graz often gets less sunshine than Como. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Como. Graz usually gets less rain in October than Como. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Como 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Graz or Como in the Winter?

Both Como and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Graz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Como because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Como can be very cold. Graz can be very cold during winter. Graz is much colder than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Graz usually receives less sunshine than Como during winter. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Como. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Como 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Graz or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Graz during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Graz because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Como this time of year.

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

In the spring, Graz often gets less sunshine than Como. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in April than Como. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Como and Graz

Graz Como
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)