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

Should you visit Marseille or Varenna?

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

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

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

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.

Marseille and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marseille or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Marseille. Although Marseille and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Marseille has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Marseille is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Varenna is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Marseille is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity. It is also home to The Vieux Port. Varenna is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Marseille different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille 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 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.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Marseille and Varenna both to be world-class destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Marseille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

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 Marseille or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

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

People head to Marseille just to party. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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 Marseille or Varenna Better for Beaches?

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

Marseille offers a nice beach destination. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Marseille or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Marseille is revered around the world. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Marseille or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Marseille 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.

Marseille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marseille or Varenna?

Marseille is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Marseille is well-known for its shopping. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

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

Is Marseille or Varenna Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Varenna does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Marseille. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Varenna does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Marseille or Varenna Better for Families?

Varenna is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Varenna is a family-friendly village. 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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Marseille or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Marseille frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Is Marseille or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marseille and Varenna are both good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Marseille. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

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 Marseille or Varenna Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Marseille and Varenna.

Marseille has some public transit options. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

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 Marseille or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Marseille is very walkable. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Marseille?

How long in Marseille or Varenna?

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

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

One day in Marseille or Varenna?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the village of Varenna. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Varenna has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Marseille or Varenna?

In Marseille, 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 Marseille has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the pristine destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Marseille or Varenna?

Marseille 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the pristine village of Varenna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Marseille or Varenna?

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

Varenna is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Marseille and Varenna, we can see that Varenna 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 Marseille Expensive? and Is Varenna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marseille or Varenna?

Marseille has a larger population, and is about 940 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Marseille 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 Marseille 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 Marseille or Varenna in the Summer?

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

In July, Marseille is generally around the same temperature as Varenna. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 24°C (75°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 Marseille. Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Marseille gets 366 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, Marseille usually receives less rain than Varenna. Marseille gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marseille or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Marseille during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marseille 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.

Marseille is around the same temperature as Varenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marseille averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. In the autumn, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Marseille gets 205 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. Marseille usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Marseille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marseille or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marseille and Varenna. Most visitors come to Marseille for 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. In the winter, Marseille is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marseille in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Marseille usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Marseille gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marseille usually receives less rain than Varenna. Marseille gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marseille or Varenna in the Spring?

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

In April, Marseille is generally around the same temperature as Varenna. Daily temperatures in Marseille average around 13°C (56°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. In the spring, Marseille often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Marseille gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Marseille usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Marseille gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Marseille