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

Should you visit Lille or Varenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lille or Varenna, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lille

Lille is a under-rated, fascinating, and cultural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

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.

Lille and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lille than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lille is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Lille and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Lille is well known for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene. Also, Lille is famous for Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle).

Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle)

How is Lille different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

Varenna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

Is the Food Better in Lille or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Lille and Varenna offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

Many restaurants in Varenna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is Lille or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

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

Lille has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

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 Lille or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Lille is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lille. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Lille or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lille or Varenna?

Lille is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Lille draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Many visitors go to Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Lille or Varenna Better for Families?

Varenna is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre 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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lille or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Varenna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Lille or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lille and Varenna are notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lille. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Varenna is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Lille or Varenna Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Lille. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Lille can get you to some places easily. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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 Lille or Varenna a more walkable city?

Lille and Varenna both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Lille on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

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 Lille Worth Visiting? and Is Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Lille?

How long in Lille or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lille or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lille than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lille, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

Families should spend more time in Varenna than Lille. 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 Lille. 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 Lille 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 Lille.

One day in Lille or Varenna?

In Lille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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.

In Varenna, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Lille or Varenna?

In Lille, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Lille has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Lille or Varenna?

Lille 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lille or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lille. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lille or Varenna?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Lille 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 Lille 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 Lille or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Lille during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lille for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Lille is cooler than Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 17°C (63°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 Lille. In the summer, Lille often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Lille gets 202 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. Lille usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Lille gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lille or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lille and Varenna. Many visitors come to Lille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lille is cooler than Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lille in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during autumn. Lille gets 105 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, Lille usually receives less rain than Varenna. Lille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lille or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lille as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Lille for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Varenna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Varenna can be very cold. Lille can be very cold during winter. In January, Lille is generally cooler than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 3°C (38°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Lille often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Lille gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets less rain in January than Varenna. Lille gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lille or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lille because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

Lille is much colder than Varenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during spring. Lille gets 158 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, Lille usually receives less rain than Varenna. Lille gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Lille