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

Should you visit Lisbon or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Varenna

Varenna is a pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Varenna is known for its hiking. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Varenna is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Lisbon different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon are world-renowned. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Varenna can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Varenna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is Lisbon or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

People head to Lisbon just to party. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Varenna Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Varenna is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Lisbon. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Varenna is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Lisbon is revered around the world. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Varenna?

Lisbon 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, Lisbon draws large crowds to its stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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

Is Lisbon or Varenna Better for Families?

Lisbon is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lisbon is very family-friendly. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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 Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Lisbon or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lisbon is extremely popular for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Varenna Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon or Varenna a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Varenna are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Getting around Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lisbon or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lisbon than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Varenna?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Varenna?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Varenna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Varenna?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Lisbon or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Varenna. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Varenna?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 610 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, 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 July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Varenna. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Varenna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Lisbon gets 352 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, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Varenna. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Varenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Lisbon 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. Lisbon usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Varenna in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Varenna. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Varenna. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Lisbon usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Lisbon