A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Madrid vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Madrid or Ventimiglia?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Madrid and Ventimiglia can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Madrid

Madrid is a compact, friendly, and authentic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a elegant, scenic, and traditional seaside town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Madrid and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Madrid than Ventimiglia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Madrid is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Madrid is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. Also, Madrid is famous for The Prado Museum. Ventimiglia is well known for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Madrid different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Madrid. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Madrid or Ventimiglia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Madrid is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Madrid know how to have a good time. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for Music?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Ventimiglia is not a live music destination.

In Madrid you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.

Ventimiglia is not a live music destination.


Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a seaside town with good options for its beaches. However, Madrid is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Ventimiglia. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Madrid is not a beach destination.

Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a great seaside town for its historic old town. However, Madrid does not have a historic old town.

Ventimiglia is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Madrid does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Madrid is a world class destination for shoppers. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.


Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Madrid is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Both Madrid and Ventimiglia are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Madrid is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.

Ventimiglia is a very popular place to visit for couples. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Madrid is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a world-class destination for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Madrid. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Is Madrid or Ventimiglia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Madrid can get you around easily. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

While Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Madrid or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Madrid
Ventimiglia

Madrid is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Madrid on foot is easy. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.

Ventimiglia is very walkable. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Madrid Worth Visiting? and Is Ventimiglia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Madrid?

How long in Madrid or Ventimiglia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Madrid or Ventimiglia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Madrid than Ventimiglia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Madrid, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ventimiglia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Madrid than Ventimiglia 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 Madrid.


  • How many days in Madrid or Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Madrid 2-5 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Madrid is a cultural city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Madrid is a diverse big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Ventimiglia 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.

Five days in Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Madrid is a friendly city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. 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.


A week in Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Madrid. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia or Madrid?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Madrid is €136, while the average daily cost in Ventimiglia is €121. 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 Madrid and Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Madrid 77
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Madrid 154
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Madrid and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Madrid or Ventimiglia? 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 Madrid


Hotels in Ventimiglia


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: Madrid Hotel Prices and Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Madrid 19
    Ventimiglia 49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid

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

  • Private One-Way Transfer to OR from Madrid Airport with private pick up: $77
  • Arrival Private Transfer Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid City by Van: $71
  • Arrival Private Transfer by Business Car from MAD Airport to Madrid: $53
  • Arrival Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Private Car: $80
  • Arrival Transfer: Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Business Car: $80
  • Departure Private Transfer Madrid to MAD Airport in a Minibus: $137
  • Departure Transfer from Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Private Car: $80
  • Departure Transfer from Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Private Van: $87
  • Departure Transfer: Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Luxury Van: $87
  • From Madrid Airport: 1-Way Private Hotel Transfer: $80
  • From Hot Air Balloon over Segovia with Transfer: $262
  • Hotel Madrid City Private Transfer To Madrid Barajas Airport: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia and Madrid 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
    Madrid 34
    Ventimiglia 38
Typical Food Prices in Madrid

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


  • Coffee
    2.00
  • Ice Cream
    3.00
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    16
  • Croissant
    1.50
  • Lunch at Airport (for 2)
    16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid

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

  • Tipsy Tapas Food Tour with Drinks and Food: $27
  • Drunken Tapas Food Tour with Dinner in Madrid: $33
  • Tapas Dinner Party Food Tour with Guide: $33
  • Tapas Crawl Food Tour with 6 Tapas and 4 Drinks: $35
  • Madrid Tipsy Tapas Guided Food Tour with Dinner: $42
  • Madrid Tipsy Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $43
  • Madrid Tapas Dinner Party with Guide: $43
  • Paella and Sangria Workshop with Dinner and Drinks: $47
  • Skip the Line: Flamenco Show with Dinner and Workshop in Madrid Ticket: $49
  • San Miguel Market and Street Food Tour: $52
  • Traditional Paella & Sangría Workshop & Spanish Dinner in Madrid: $53
  • The Authentic Morning Madrid's Food Tour: $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Madrid 34
    Ventimiglia 27

Tours and Activities in Madrid

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

  • Madrid Essential: Free Walking City Tour: $1.07
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Madrid Mountains Free Walking Tour: $3.27
  • History & Culture Guided Walking Tour: $4.28
  • Escape Game and Tour: $4.28
  • 2 Hour Madrid Walking Tour : $4.36
  • Wonders of Madrid Walking Tour : $4.36
  • Wonders of Madrid Walking Tour: $5.35
  • Marvels of Madrid Walking Tour: $5.35
  • Madrid Old Town & Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $5.35
  • Ticket Entrance to the Madrid Nougat Museum: $5.35
  • Wonders of Madrid City Walking Tour: $5.35

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Madrid 20
    Ventimiglia 7.19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:


  • Beer
    5.00
  • Drinks and Tapas (for 2)
    13

Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:

  • Pub Crawl with Tapas and VIP Club Entry: $9.62
  • Madrid Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entrance: $11
  • Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
  • Pub crawl & Party Tour Madrid: $14
  • Pub Crawl Madrid Running since 2005 Bar Exploration: $16
  • Guided Pub Crawl Madrid Experience and Club Entry: $16
  • Pub Crawl Madrid-The Original since 2005-Shots-Fun-Clubs-Dance: $16
  • Pub Crawl Madrid: $19
  • Wine Tasting near Plaza Mayor: $22
  • Wine Tasting Experience with 4 Spanish Wines: $26
  • Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
  • Wine Tasting Experience: $49


When comparing the travel costs between Madrid and Ventimiglia, we can see that Madrid is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Madrid or Ventimiglia?

Madrid has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Madrid and Ventimiglia, 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.