A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paris vs. Como for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Paris or Como?

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

Should I visit Paris or Como? 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.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Como

Como is a vibrant, scenic, and trendy lake area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Paris and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Como?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Como. Paris is bigger than Como, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Como is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Paris is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Como is well known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paris or Como?

Paris is renowned for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Paris has many famous sights for visitors. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Is Paris or Como Better for Theater?

Paris is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Como is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Paris. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Como is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Paris or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Como.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Como has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

Is Paris or Como Better for Nightlife?

Paris is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Paris is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Paris or Como Better for Music?

Paris is renowned for its music scene. However, Como is not a live music destination.

Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Como is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Como Better for Beaches?

Como is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Como is a good option for a beach vacation. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Paris or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is great for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Como for the hiking trails. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Como?

If you're looking to go shopping, Paris and Como both offer plenty of fantastic spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

The abundance of shops in Como make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Is Paris or Como Better for Christmas?

Paris is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Como does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Paris draws large crowds. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Como does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Como Better for Families?

Paris is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Paris is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Como is a very family-friendly place to visit. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Is Paris or Como Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Paris and Como make for a fantastic place to visit.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

For those traveling as a couple, Como has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Is Paris or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Paris, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Is Paris or Como Better for Students?

Paris is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Como is not popular with students.

Paris is a great destination for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Como is not popular with students.

Is Paris or Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Paris has a great public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

You'll find some public transit in Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Paris or Como a more walkable city?

Paris and Como are very good when it comes to walkability.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Como is a very walkable city. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

For even more information, also check out Is Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Paris?

How long in Paris or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Paris or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paris due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Como 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 Paris.

One day in Paris or Como?

Paris is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Como, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This lake area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paris or Como?

Paris is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Como. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Como?

Paris is a energetic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Como is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Como. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paris or Como?

Paris is a bustling city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find nightlife and food around the vibrant destination of Como. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.

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

Which is Bigger, Paris or Como?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Paris and Como, 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 Paris or Como?

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 Paris or Como in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Como. Many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Como in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paris is generally cooler than Como. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 20°C (68°F), and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Como this time of the year. In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paris usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Como during summer. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paris usually receives around the same amount of rain as Como. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paris or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paris as well as Como. Many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Como for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Paris is cooler than Como in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Paris often gets less sunshine than Como. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Como. Paris usually gets less rain in October than Como. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Como in the Winter?

Both Como and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Como because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Como can be very cold. Paris can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Paris is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paris in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Como averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Como during winter. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paris usually receives less rain than Como. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paris or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Paris during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Como this time of year.

In April, Paris is generally cooler than Como. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 11°C (52°F), and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Paris often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Como. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in April than Como. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Paris