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

Should you visit Nafplio or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Nafplio 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.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a beautiful, picturesque, and romantic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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.

Nafplio and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nafplio or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nafplio. Although Nafplio and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Nafplio has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nafplio is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and historical sights, while Varenna is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Nafplio is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. It is also home to Palamidi Castle. Varenna is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Nafplio different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nafplio is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nafplio. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

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 Nafplio or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Varenna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Nafplio makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

Is Nafplio or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

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

Nafplio has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

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 Nafplio or Varenna Better for Beaches?

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

Nafplio offers a nice beach destination. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Nafplio or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Nafplio 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 Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Nafplio or Varenna Better for Hiking?

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

Nafplio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Varenna?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Nafplio and Varenna.

Nafplio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Varenna is a great destination for shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Nafplio or Varenna Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nafplio or Varenna.

Nafplio is a family-friendly city. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

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 Nafplio or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Nafplio 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 Nafplio frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

Is Nafplio or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio and Varenna are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nafplio. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

Varenna is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

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

Nafplio has some public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

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 Nafplio or Varenna a more walkable city?

Nafplio and Varenna are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Nafplio. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

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 Nafplio Worth Visiting? and Is Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nafplio or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nafplio 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 Nafplio, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Nafplio. 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 Nafplio 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 Nafplio.

One day in Nafplio or Varenna?

In Nafplio, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

In Varenna, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Nafplio or Varenna?

In Nafplio, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Nafplio has to offer.

In Varenna, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Varenna has to offer.

Five days in Nafplio or Varenna?

Nafplio 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 great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Nafplio or Varenna?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Varenna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Varenna?

Nafplio has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio 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 Nafplio 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 Nafplio or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the beaches 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, Nafplio is generally around the same temperature as Varenna. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 25°C (76°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 Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Nafplio 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, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Varenna. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nafplio or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Nafplio during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Nafplio because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Nafplio. In the autumn, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Nafplio gets 202 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Varenna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Also, 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, Nafplio is much warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nafplio in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nafplio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Varenna. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nafplio or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Varenna. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Nafplio is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 15°C (58°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the spring, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Nafplio usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Nafplio 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 Nafplio