A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heidelberg vs. Verona for Old Town, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Heidelberg or Verona?

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 Heidelberg and Verona. 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a character-filled, historic, and quaint town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Verona

Verona is a stunning, romantic, and cultural city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg and Verona: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Verona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Verona than Heidelberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Verona is more popular for its museums, while Heidelberg is known for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Verona is popular for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. It is also home to Juliet's House and Balcony.

How is Heidelberg different from Verona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Heidelberg or Verona?

Heidelberg
Verona

Verona is a great city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Verona. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Heidelberg or Verona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heidelberg
Verona

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Heidelberg and Verona can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Heidelberg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Verona makes for a great culinary experience. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Is Heidelberg or Verona Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg
Verona

Heidelberg is a great town for nightlife and partying. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Heidelberg has something for everybody. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Verona. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

Is Heidelberg or Verona Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg
Verona

Heidelberg is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Heidelberg offers plenty to see. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.


Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Verona?

Heidelberg
Verona

If you're looking to go shopping, Heidelberg and Verona both offer plenty of good spots.

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Verona is a great destination for shopping. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Is Heidelberg or Verona Better for Families?

Heidelberg
Verona

Heidelberg is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Heidelberg offers lots of family activities. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Heidelberg or Verona Better for Couples?

Heidelberg
Verona

Heidelberg and Verona both superb destinations for a couple.

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Verona is a very popular place to visit for couples. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.


Is Heidelberg or Verona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg
Verona

Heidelberg is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Heidelberg or Verona Better for Students?

Heidelberg
Verona

For students, both Heidelberg and Verona are good places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Verona is a good town to visit for students. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

Is Heidelberg or Verona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Heidelberg
Verona

Heidelberg is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Heidelberg can get you around easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Verona has a few public transit options. ATV operates buses through the city.


Is Heidelberg or Verona a more walkable city?

Heidelberg
Verona

Heidelberg and Verona are superb when it comes to walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

Verona is very walkable. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

For even more information, also check out Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting? and Is Verona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Verona or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Verona?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heidelberg and Verona. In our opinion, Heidelberg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Heidelberg than Verona. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heidelberg than Verona 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 Heidelberg.


  • How many days in Heidelberg or Verona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Heidelberg 1-3 
    Verona 1-3

One day in Heidelberg or Verona?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Heidelberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

With museums and nightlife around the stunning city of Verona, 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 Verona, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Verona?

Heidelberg 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Verona, 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.


Five days in Heidelberg or Verona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heidelberg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Verona, 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.

A week in Heidelberg or Verona?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Heidelberg. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Verona 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Verona or Heidelberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Heidelberg is €142, while the average daily cost in Verona is €168. 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 Heidelberg and Verona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heidelberg 93
    Verona 107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heidelberg 186
    Verona 214
Compare Hotels in Heidelberg and Verona

Looking for a hotel in Heidelberg or Verona? 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 Heidelberg


Hotels in Verona


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices and Verona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heidelberg 17
    Verona 6.88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Verona

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Verona:


  • Bus From Airport
    6.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Verona

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

  • 1-Way Private Transfer to/from Marco Polo Airport: $661
  • private transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $620
  • Verona Airport:1-Way Private Transfer to Venice+water taxi: $535
  • Verona Airport (VRN): One Way Transfer to Venice+WaterTaxi: $503
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Venice Airport: $500
  • Verona Airport(VRN): 1-Way Transfer to Venice, Piazzale Roma: $364
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Malpensa airport (MPX) (or vice versa): $291
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Selva Val Gardena (or vice versa): $284
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Florence (or vice versa): $272
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Ortisei (or vice versa): $262
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Madonna di Campiglio (or vice versa): $218
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Verona to Bolzano (or vice versa): $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Heidelberg or Verona?

Prices for flights to both Verona and Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37
    Verona 54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Typical Food Prices in Verona

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Verona:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    36
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    23
  • Cappucino
    1.75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Verona

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

  • Guided Food Tour with Wine Tasting: $63
  • Tortellini Cooking Class and Lunch with Mamma Ivana: $64
  • Eat Drink and Love wine and food tour: $82
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Castelnuovo del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Fumane with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Soave: $93
  • Verona Food Tour with Guide: $95
  • Food Tour with Amarone Wine Tasting: $95
  • Wine and Food Tour with Dinner and Tastings: $96
  • Small-group Street food tour in Soave: $97
  • Verona Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $101
  • Valpolicella: Traditional cooking class with local products: $102

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heidelberg 11
    Verona 12

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
  • Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $71
  • Amazing Schwetzingen Garden Tour: $238
  • Beer and Old Town Tour: $98
  • Bicycle Tour from Heidelberg to quaint Ladenburg.: $120
  • Culinary city tour in Heidelberg with delicious samples: $43
  • E.Bike Tours around Heidelberg: $153
  • Evening Heidelberg tour with historical night watchman: $17
  • Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $64
  • Fascinating Heidelberg Sightseeing Walking Tour: $217
  • Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg : $131
  • Guided Tour of Student Rabble, Whore Pack and the French War: $373

Typical Entertainment Prices in Verona

For Verona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Juliet's House Entry
    4.00
  • Verona Card
    10

Tours and Activities in Verona

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

  • Amarone wine experience in Verona countryside: $37
  • "Let yourself be guided .. Let yourself be pampered" Private Tour: $218
  • 3 Hour Shared Walking and Aperitivo Tour of Verona: $70
  • 3 Hour Walking tour of Verona and Arena: $142
  • 3 Hour Watercolor Private Experience in Verona: $65
  • 4-Hour Guided E-bike Tour of the Two Wineries in Bardolino: $119
  • A day in the life of Verona - Private tour with a local: $224
  • A private tasting tour of Verona, between food and wine: $280
  • Adventure in e-Bike among medieval villages and castles: $125
  • Amarone 2005 Wine Experience: $33
  • Amarone Della Valpolicella Wine Experience - Meet the Vogadori Family: $38
  • Amarone Wine Experience at Montresor winery: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heidelberg 17
    Verona 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295

Sample the Local Flavors in Verona

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

  • Wine tasting in Bardolino: $26
  • Valpolicella Wine Tour and Tasting in Medieval Court: $33
  • Amarone Wine Tour: $35
  • Montresor Winery Visit with Wine Tasting and Snacks: $37
  • Valdadige: Roeno Guided Tour and Wine tasting: $37
  • Verona area: Wine Tasting Experience in Valpolicella: $38
  • Food and Wine Tasting in Valpolicella: $38
  • Unique Wine tasting in Verona, with Amarone docg: $41
  • Lazise: Historical Center Wine Tasting Tour: $43
  • Lake Garda: Wine Tour & Tasting Experience in Bardolino area: $44
  • Wine Tasting near Juliet's Balcony in Verona: $45
  • Wine Tasting in Underground Cellar in Verona City Center : $46


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

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


Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Verona?

Verona has a larger population, and is about 77% larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg and Verona, 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 Heidelberg or Verona?

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 Heidelberg or Verona in the Summer?

Both Verona and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Verona for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heidelberg is generally cooler than Verona. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 21°C (69°F), and Verona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Verona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Verona during summer. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Verona. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Verona receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F) 
    Verona 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Verona in the Autumn?

Both Verona and Heidelberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Verona in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Heidelberg is cooler than Verona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Verona fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Verona. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 137 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in October than Verona. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Verona receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F) 
    Verona 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Verona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Verona. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Verona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Verona can be very cold during winter. Heidelberg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Heidelberg is a little warmer than Verona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heidelberg in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Verona averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Verona during winter. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heidelberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Verona. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Verona receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F) 
    Verona 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Verona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Verona. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Verona because of the natural beauty.

In April, Heidelberg is generally cooler than Verona. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 11°C (52°F), and Verona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Verona. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 169 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in April than Verona. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Verona receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F) 
    Verona 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Verona and Heidelberg

Heidelberg Verona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in) 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 51 mm (2 in)