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

Should you visit Nantes or Varenna?

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

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

Nantes

Nantes is a beautiful, vibrant, and welcoming city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Nantes and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantes or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantes. Although Nantes and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Nantes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantes is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Nantes and is known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Nantes is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. It is also home to The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany.

How is Nantes different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nantes 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 Nantes. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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 Nantes or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

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

Nantes has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

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 Nantes or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Nantes 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 Nantes. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantes or Varenna Better for Hiking?

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

Nantes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Varenna?

Nantes 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.

Nantes is well-known for its shopping. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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

Is Nantes or Varenna Better for Families?

Nantes 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, Nantes is very family-friendly. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Nantes 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 Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Is Nantes or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or Varenna Better for Students?

Nantes is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Nantes. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Nantes is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Nantes can get you to some places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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 Nantes or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Nantes 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.

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Varenna?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Nantes. 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.

One day in Nantes or Varenna?

In Nantes, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Nantes or Varenna?

In Nantes, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. 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 Nantes has to offer.

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 Nantes or Varenna?

Nantes is a great place to explore. 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.

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 Nantes or Varenna?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nantes or Varenna?

Nantes has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Nantes 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 Nantes 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 Nantes or Varenna in the Summer?

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

In July, Nantes is generally cooler than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 19°C (67°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 Nantes. Nantes usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna during summer. Nantes gets 267 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, Nantes usually receives less rain than Varenna. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nantes or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Nantes during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nantes in the autumn for the shopping 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.

Nantes is around the same temperature as Varenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Nantes gets 141 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. Nantes usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Varenna. Most visitors come to Nantes for the museums, 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 the winter, Nantes is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantes in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Nantes usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during winter. Nantes gets 72 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nantes usually receives more rain than Varenna. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nantes or Varenna in the Spring?

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

In April, Nantes is generally cooler than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 11°C (51°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Nantes often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna. Nantes gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Nantes usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Nantes gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Nantes