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

Should you visit Strasbourg or Varenna?

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 Strasbourg and Varenna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a charming, picturesque, and impressive 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 beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Strasbourg and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Strasbourg or Varenna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Strasbourg. Although Strasbourg and Varenna are popular destinations, Strasbourg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Strasbourg is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Strasbourg is famous for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also well known for The Strasbourg Cathedral. Varenna is famous for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Strasbourg different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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 Strasbourg or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Varenna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Strasbourg or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Strasbourg is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

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 Strasbourg or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Strasbourg is revered around the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Strasbourg or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a great village for hiking. However, Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Varenna for the hiking trails. 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.

Strasbourg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Strasbourg or Varenna?

Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is well-known for its shopping. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

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

Is Strasbourg or Varenna Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Strasbourg or Varenna.

Strasbourg offers lots of family activities. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Varenna is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Strasbourg or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Varenna has plenty to offer. 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.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

Is Strasbourg or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Strasbourg and Varenna are nice places to visit.

Strasbourg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

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.

Is Strasbourg or Varenna Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Strasbourg. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg can get you to some places easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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 Strasbourg or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Varenna is a very easy village to get around on foot. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Strasbourg is a very walkable city. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Varenna?

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

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Strasbourg. 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.

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

One day in Strasbourg or Varenna?

In Strasbourg, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and food around the beautiful village of Varenna, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Varenna, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Strasbourg or Varenna?

In Strasbourg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Strasbourg has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Varenna, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this village.

Five days in Strasbourg or Varenna?

Strasbourg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Varenna, a popular village, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Strasbourg or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Strasbourg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Varenna is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Strasbourg or Varenna?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg or Varenna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Strasbourg and Varenna. Many visitors come to Strasbourg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Strasbourg is cooler than Varenna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Strasbourg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Varenna averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Varenna this time of the year. In Strasbourg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Strasbourg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna during summer. Strasbourg gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Varenna. Strasbourg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Strasbourg as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Strasbourg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Strasbourg is generally cooler than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 12°C (53°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Strasbourg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Strasbourg usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Strasbourg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Strasbourg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Varenna in the winter. The weather in Strasbourg can be very cold. Strasbourg is much colder than Varenna in the winter. The daily temperature in Strasbourg averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during winter. Strasbourg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Varenna. Strasbourg gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Strasbourg during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Varenna for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Strasbourg is cooler than Varenna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Strasbourg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Varenna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Strasbourg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Strasbourg usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Strasbourg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Strasbourg