A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Brescia for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Saaremaa or Brescia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Brescia, 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.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a calm, peaceful, and relaxed island. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and beaches.

Brescia

Brescia is a authentic, under-rated, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saaremaa and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Brescia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Brescia than Saaremaa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Brescia is better known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Saaremaa is more popular for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Brescia is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its historic and archeological sights. Also, Brescia is famous for The San Salvatore–Santa Giulia complex. Saaremaa is well known for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saaremaa or Brescia?

Brescia is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa 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 Brescia. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Brescia can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brescia makes for a great culinary experience. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Saaremaa or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Brescia is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Brescia Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Brescia is not a beach destination.

Saaremaa has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Brescia is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Brescia?

Brescia is great for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Brescia. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Brescia Better for Families?

Saaremaa is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Saaremaa. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Saaremaa or Brescia Better for Couples?

Saaremaa is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Saaremaa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.

Is Saaremaa or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saaremaa is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Saaremaa. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Saaremaa or Brescia Better for Students?

Brescia is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.

Is Saaremaa or Brescia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brescia is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Brescia a more walkable city?

Brescia is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saaremaa or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saaremaa than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brescia than Saaremaa 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 Brescia.

One day in Saaremaa or Brescia?

Saaremaa is a small town with plenty to do. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Brescia offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Brescia?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saaremaa has to offer.

Brescia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brescia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Brescia?

Saaremaa 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.

Brescia is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saaremaa. Since Saaremaa is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Brescia is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saaremaa and Brescia, we can see that Brescia is more expensive. And not only is Saaremaa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saaremaa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saaremaa 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 Brescia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brescia than you might in Saaremaa.

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

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Brescia, 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 Saaremaa or Brescia?

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 Saaremaa or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Brescia. The summer months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

In the summer, Saaremaa is cooler than Brescia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saaremaa in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Brescia averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brescia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saaremaa this time of the year. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in July than Brescia. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 8°C (47°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Brescia during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Brescia. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Saaremaa during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Brescia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brescia can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Saaremaa. Saaremaa is much colder than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Brescia. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Brescia. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the natural beauty during these months.

Saaremaa can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Saaremaa is much colder than Brescia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saaremaa in April average around 4°C (38°F), and Brescia averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Brescia. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brescia and Saaremaa