A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inner Hebrides vs. Como for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Inner Hebrides or Como?

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

Should I visit Inner Hebrides 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.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a natural, peaceful, and tranquil islands. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Inner Hebrides and Como: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Inner Hebrides or Como?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Como than Inner Hebrides, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Como is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Inner Hebrides is more popular for its beaches. Como is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Also, Como is famous for the lakeside setting. Inner Hebrides is well known for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

How is Inner Hebrides different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inner Hebrides or Como?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Como specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Inner Hebrides or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Inner Hebrides. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

Is Inner Hebrides or Como Better for Nightlife?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is a popular place for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Como. 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Inner Hebrides or Como Better for Beaches?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Inner Hebrides is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Inner Hebrides. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Como. 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.


Is Inner Hebrides or Como Better for Hiking?

Inner Hebrides
Como

If you're looking to go hiking, Inner Hebrides and Como both have very good trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Inner Hebrides. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Inner Hebrides or Como?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Como. 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Inner Hebrides or Como Better for Families?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Como is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Inner Hebrides. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.


Is Inner Hebrides or Como Better for Couples?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Inner Hebrides frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

Is Inner Hebrides or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Como is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Inner Hebrides is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.

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

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Inner Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Public transit is generally limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.


Is Inner Hebrides or Como a more walkable city?

Inner Hebrides
Como

Como is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Inner Hebrides Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Inner Hebrides?

How long in Inner Hebrides or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Inner Hebrides or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Inner Hebrides due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Inner Hebrides, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

Couples should spend more time in Como than Inner Hebrides. 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 Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides or Como? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inner Hebrides 3-5 
    Como 2-4

One day in Inner Hebrides or Como?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Inner Hebrides. 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.

In Como, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Inner Hebrides or Como?

Inner Hebrides is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Como is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Inner Hebrides or Como?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the stunning destination of Inner Hebrides. This islands offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Como. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Inner Hebrides or Como?

The tranquil islands of Inner Hebrides offers food. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lake area of Como. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Como or Inner Hebrides?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inner Hebrides is £142, while the average daily cost in Como is £183. 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 Inner Hebrides and Como in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inner Hebrides £67
    Como £125
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inner Hebrides £134
    Como £250
Compare Hotels in Inner Hebrides and Como

Looking for a hotel in Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides


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: Como Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inner Hebrides £76
    Como £12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Como

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

  • Private transfer from Mandello del Lario or Abbadia Lariana: $76
  • Private transfer from Lenno or Argegno or Ossuccio: $147
  • Private Transfer: Lake Como to Milan Airport MXP in Luxury Van: $236
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169
  • Private Transfer from Como to Milan hotels: $53
  • Private Transfer From Lecco or Malgrate: $65
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Como: $275
  • From Private 1-Way Transfer to Linate airport: $306
  • From Como : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $336
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193

Is it cheaper to fly into Inner Hebrides or Como?

Prices for flights to both Como and Inner Hebrides 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
    Inner Hebrides £31
    Como £51

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.
    Inner Hebrides £22
    Como -

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
    Inner Hebrides £7.71
    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 Inner Hebrides and Como, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Inner Hebrides much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Inner Hebrides would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides.

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