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

Should you visit Tenerife or Varenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tenerife or Varenna, 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.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a volcanic, scenic, and vibrant island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Tenerife and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tenerife or Varenna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tenerife. Although Tenerife and Varenna are popular destinations, Tenerife has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tenerife is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Varenna attracts visitors for its museums, food, and impressive beauty. Tenerife is more touristy than Varenna and is known for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. It is also well known for Mount Teide. Varenna is famous for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Tenerife different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Varenna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

Varenna is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Varenna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Tenerife or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

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

People head to Tenerife just to party. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

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 Tenerife or Varenna Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Tenerife to choose from. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Tenerife or Varenna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Tenerife. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tenerife or Varenna Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Tenerife for it's beautiful beaches. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Tenerife or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Tenerife is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Varenna. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Tenerife or Varenna?

Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is well-known for its shopping. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

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

Is Tenerife or Varenna Better for Families?

Tenerife is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Tenerife is very family-friendly. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. 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 Tenerife or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is very popular for romance. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Varenna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Tenerife frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Is Tenerife or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tenerife and Varenna are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Tenerife. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

Varenna is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Tenerife and Varenna.

Tenerife has some public transit options. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

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 Tenerife or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is very popular for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Tenerife?

How long in Tenerife or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tenerife or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tenerife than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tenerife, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Tenerife. 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 Tenerife 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 Tenerife.

One day in Tenerife or Varenna?

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

The beautiful village of Varenna offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Tenerife or Varenna?

In Tenerife, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Varenna is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this village makes for a great vacation. 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, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Tenerife or Varenna?

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

Varenna is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Tenerife or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tenerife. In Tenerife, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Varenna is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This village offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Tenerife 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 Tenerife or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Tenerife are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tenerife for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tenerife is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tenerife in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Varenna averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Varenna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. Tenerife usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna during summer. Tenerife gets 268 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In July, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Varenna. Tenerife gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tenerife or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Tenerife during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tenerife in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Tenerife is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Tenerife average around 22°C (72°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Tenerife. In the autumn, Tenerife often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Tenerife gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tenerife usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Tenerife gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tenerife or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tenerife and Varenna. Most visitors come to Tenerife for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Varenna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Varenna can be very cold. Tenerife is much warmer than Varenna in the winter. The daily temperature in Tenerife averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Tenerife usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Tenerife gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tenerife usually receives less rain than Varenna. Tenerife gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tenerife or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tenerife as well as Varenna. The spring months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

In the spring, Tenerife is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tenerife in April average around 18°C (64°F), and Varenna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tenerife this time of the year. In the spring, Tenerife often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Tenerife gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Tenerife usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Tenerife gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Tenerife