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

Should you visit Marbella or Varenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marbella 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.

Marbella

Marbella is a glamorous, fun-filled, and high energy resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Varenna

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

Marbella and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marbella or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marbella than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marbella is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Marbella is well known for its luxury hotels, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Also, Marbella is famous for Plaza de los Naranjos. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Marbella different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marbella does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Varenna is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Varenna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Marbella area. The area is filled with tourists, so finding an authentic dining experience can be difficult. Several favorite dishes include croquetas, boquerones, and pulpo.

Is Marbella or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

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

People head to Marbella just to party. European tourists flock to the town for its beaches and resorts. The town has a glamorous nightlife scene with exclusive clubs and ritzy cocktail bars, particularly in Puerto Banus and along the Golden Mile.

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 Marbella or Varenna Better for Music?

Marbella is an excellent place to visit for its live music scene. However, Varenna is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Marbella has diverse options. Some of the best music venues include Starlite, Kitch Social Club, and Momento.

Varenna is not a live music destination.

Is Marbella or Varenna Better for Resorts?

Marbella is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Marbella for its luxury resorts. From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Marbella or Varenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marbella is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Marbella. There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marbella or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Marbella is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Marbella offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. Popular options include Guadalmina Beach, San Pedro de Alcántara Beach, and Nueva Andalucía Beach.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Marbella or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Marbella is a good destination for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Marbella. Head into the old town to explore a quaint area with small, meandering streets, churches, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Marbella or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Marbella 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.

Marbella is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marbella or Varenna?

Marbella 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, Marbella draws large crowds to its stores. This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe.

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

Is Marbella or Varenna Better for Families?

Marbella 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, Marbella is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful, family-friendly beaches and many resorts with pools that are great for kids.

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 Marbella or Varenna Better for Couples?

Marbella and Varenna are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Marbella has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon.

Varenna is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Is Marbella or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marbella and Varenna are both notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Marbella. There are a few good hostels in the area for backpackers who want to enjoy this part of Spain's cost. There's also a lively nightlife scene and plenty of opportunities to meet others.

Varenna is a good resort town 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 Marbella or Varenna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Varenna is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marbella is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Public transit is generally limited in Marbella. There is a bus system through the area, but most visitors prefer to get around by car.

Is Marbella or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Marbella is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Marbella is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable and there are a number of hotels and nice resorts within a short walk of the town along a nice promenade.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Marbella?

How long in Marbella or Varenna?

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

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

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

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

One day in Marbella or Varenna?

In Marbella, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful village of Varenna offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marbella or Varenna?

In Marbella, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marbella has to offer.

Varenna is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this village makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Varenna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marbella or Varenna?

Marbella is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marbella has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Varenna is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marbella or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marbella. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Marbella. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Varenna is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This village offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Marbella or Varenna?

Marbella has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Marbella 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 Marbella 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 Marbella or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Marbella are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marbella for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Marbella is around the same temperature as Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, 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 Marbella. Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Marbella gets 348 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, Marbella usually receives less rain than Varenna. Marbella gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marbella or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Marbella during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marbella in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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, Marbella is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marbella in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Marbella. In the autumn, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Marbella 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. Marbella usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Marbella gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marbella or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marbella and Varenna. Most visitors come to Marbella for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, 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. In January, Marbella is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Marbella average around 12°C (54°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Marbella usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Marbella gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marbella usually receives more rain than Varenna. Marbella gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marbella or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marbella as well as Varenna. The spring months attract visitors to Marbella because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

Marbella is a little warmer than Varenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Marbella averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marbella this time of the year. In the spring, Marbella often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Marbella gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Marbella usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Marbella gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Marbella