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

Should you visit Nice or Varenna?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nice and Varenna 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.

Nice

Nice is a glamourous, beautiful, and opulent seaside destination. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Nice and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nice than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nice is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Varenna is more popular for its museums and hiking. Nice is more touristy than Varenna and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Also, Nice is famous for The Promenade des Anglais. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Nice different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna is a village with good options for its sights and museums. However, Nice 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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at fantastic restaurants in both Nice and Varenna.

Many restaurants in Nice have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Eat your way through Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is Nice or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

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

People head to Nice just to party. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice or Varenna Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Nice for its luxury resorts. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Varenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Nice is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Nice for it's beautiful beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Nice or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Nice 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 Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Nice or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Nice is not a hiking destination.

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Nice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Varenna?

Nice 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.

Nice is well-known for its shopping. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

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

Is Nice or Varenna Better for Families?

Both Nice and Varenna are notable to visit with kids.

Nice is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Varenna is a family-friendly seaside destination. 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 Nice or Varenna Better for Couples?

Both Nice and Varenna are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nice is a great seaside destination for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

Varenna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Nice or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Nice and Varenna are notable destinations for backpackers.

Nice is a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

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

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

Nice 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 Nice can get you to some places easily. There are both buses and trams.

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 Nice or Varenna a more walkable city?

Nice and Varenna both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Nice on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Nice?

How long in Nice or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nice or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nice than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Nice, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

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

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

One day in Nice or Varenna?

In Nice, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Nice or Varenna?

In Nice, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nice or Varenna?

Nice 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 Nice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the scenic destination of Varenna. This village offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nice or Varenna?

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

The scenic village of Varenna offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

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 Nice and Varenna, we can see that Varenna is more expensive. And not only is Nice much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nice would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nice 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 Nice.

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or Varenna?

Nice has a larger population, and is about 400 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Nice 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 Nice or Varenna?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nice or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Nice during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Nice is around the same temperature as Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nice usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Varenna. Many travelers come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Varenna in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nice is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nice in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nice gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nice usually receives less rain than Varenna. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nice or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nice as well as Varenna. Many visitors come to Nice in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Varenna can be very cold during winter. In January, Nice is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 9°C (48°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Nice usually gets more rain in January than Varenna. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Varenna because of the natural beauty.

Nice is around the same temperature as Varenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In April, Nice usually receives less rain than Varenna. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Nice