A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Siena vs. Lake Garda for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Siena or Lake Garda?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Siena and Lake Garda can help you decide which place is right for you.

Siena

Siena is a beautiful, romantic, and charming city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a scenic, playful, and fun lake. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Siena and Lake Garda: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Siena or Lake Garda?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lake Garda. Although Siena and Lake Garda are popular destinations, Lake Garda has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lake Garda is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking, while Siena attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Siena is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. Lake Garda is famous for its beautiful setting, charming towns, and fun amusement parks. It is also well known for Sirmione.

How is Siena different from Lake Garda?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Siena or Lake Garda?

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

Siena offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lake Garda. While most people come for the natural beauty, there are also great castles that you can explore. Castello Scaligeri, Grotte di Catullo, and Castello Scaligero.

Is the Food Better in Siena or Lake Garda? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Siena and Lake Garda offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Siena makes for a great culinary experience. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Lake Garda has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many great local restaurants in the area. Most make use of local ingredients such as olive oil, lemons, wine, and fish. Pasta and risotto are both popular throughout the area as well.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for Nightlife?

Lake Garda is notable for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Lake Garda has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find clubs and bars in various towns that make for a great nightlife scene. You'll even find beach parties and fireworks shows during the most popular times of the year.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for Beaches?

Lake Garda is notable for its beaches. However, Siena is not a beach destination.

Lake Garda is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Despite there being no ocean, there are many great swimming beaches in the area. Many have sand and great places to relax. There's also plenty of watersports to choose from.

Siena is not a beach destination.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for its Old Town?

Siena is terrific for its old town. However, Lake Garda does not have a historic old town.

Siena has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Lake Garda does not have a historic old town.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for Hiking?

Lake Garda is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Siena is not a hiking destination.

Lake Garda is a popular spot for hiking. There are many great walking and hiking trails in the area that take you through the natural beauty, connect the charming towns, and offer spectacular viewpoints.

Siena is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Siena or Lake Garda?

Both Siena and Lake Garda are nice shopping destinations.

Siena is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lake Garda. Many villages around the lake are great for shopping. You'll find clothing stores, jewelry shops, and souvenir vendors with something for everyone.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for Families?

Lake Garda is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Lake Garda is one of the most popular family destinations. The nearby amusement parks, including Gardaland, make this a popular destination for families. The area also has many places to swim, trails to explore, and castles to experience. Kids and adults alike will love this amazing kid-friendly area.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for Couples?

Siena is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Siena makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

Couples visit Lake Garda frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You'll find a lot of families in the area because of the amusement parks, but that doesn't mean that this isn't a romantic and beautiful spot for couples. There are many charming towns to explore and scenic viewpoints to check out. There are also excellent romantic restaurants that you should try.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Siena and Lake Garda are nice destinations for backpackers.

Siena is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lake Garda. There are a few good hostels around the lake that are affordable and fun. The area also see enough backpackers to keep the atmosphere fun and social.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for Students?

Siena is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake Garda is not popular with students.

Siena is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

Lake Garda is not popular with students.

Is Siena or Lake Garda Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake Garda is notable for its public transit. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lake Garda is fairly effecient and thorough. There are ferries, buses, and trains in the area.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Siena or Lake Garda a more walkable city?

Siena and Lake Garda both are great when exploring on foot.

Siena is very walkable. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

Lake Garda is a very walkable city. There are walking trails that connect the villages around the lake and this how many people choose to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Siena Worth Visiting? and Is Lake Garda Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Garda or Siena?

How long in Siena or Lake Garda?

It's fun to spend time in either Siena or Lake Garda. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lake Garda due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Siena, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lake Garda.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lake Garda than Siena 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 Lake Garda.

One day in Siena or Lake Garda?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Siena, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Siena, one day is sufficent for most.

In Lake Garda, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This lake 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 Siena or Lake Garda?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Siena, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake Garda. 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 Siena or Lake Garda?

Siena, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lake Garda is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lake Garda. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Siena or Lake Garda?

Siena is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun destination of Lake Garda. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Siena or Lake Garda?

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 Siena or Lake Garda in the Summer?

Both Lake Garda and Siena during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Siena for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lake Garda because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Siena is around the same temperature as Lake Garda. Typically, the summer temperatures in Siena in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Lake Garda averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Lake Garda, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Siena. In the summer, Siena often gets more sunshine than Lake Garda. Siena gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 286 hours of full sun.

Siena usually gets less rain in July than Lake Garda. Siena gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Siena or Lake Garda in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Siena and Lake Garda. The autumn months attract visitors to Siena 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 Lake Garda this time of year.

In October, Siena is generally a little warmer than Lake Garda. Daily temperatures in Siena average around 16°C (61°F), and Lake Garda fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Siena usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during autumn. Siena gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Siena usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lake Garda. Siena gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Siena or Lake Garda in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Siena as well as Lake Garda. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Siena this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lake Garda for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lake Garda. Siena is much warmer than Lake Garda in the winter. The daily temperature in Siena averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Siena often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lake Garda. Siena gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 98 hours of full sun.

Siena usually gets more rain in January than Lake Garda. Siena gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Siena or Lake Garda in the Spring?

Both Lake Garda and Siena are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Siena for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Lake Garda in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Siena is around the same temperature as Lake Garda. Typically, the spring temperatures in Siena in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Lake Garda averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Siena usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during spring. Siena gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Siena usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lake Garda. Siena gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lake Garda and Siena