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

Should you visit Valletta or Varenna?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Valletta and Varenna can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Valletta

Valletta is a charming, cultural, and waterfront town. 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 pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Valletta and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valletta. Although Valletta and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Valletta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Valletta is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. It is also home to The Grand Masters Palace.

How is Valletta different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valletta is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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 Valletta or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Valletta and Varenna.

Many restaurants in Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Eat your way through Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Is Valletta or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Valletta 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 Valletta. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

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 Valletta or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Valletta. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Valletta is revered around the world. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Valletta or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Varenna?

Valletta 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.

Valletta is well-known for its shopping. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

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

Is Valletta or Varenna Better for Families?

Both Valletta and Varenna are good to visit with kids.

Valletta is a family-friendly town. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

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 Valletta or Varenna Better for Couples?

Both Valletta and Varenna are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Valletta is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

Varenna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Is Valletta or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Valletta and Varenna.

Valletta has some public transit options. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

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 Valletta or Varenna a more walkable city?

Valletta and Varenna are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Valletta. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

Getting around Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Varenna?

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

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

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

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

One day in Valletta or Varenna?

In Valletta, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Valletta or Varenna?

In Valletta, 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 Valletta has to offer.

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 Valletta or Varenna?

Valletta 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 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 Valletta or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valletta. 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 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 Historical Tours in Malta, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Varenna?

Valletta has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Valletta 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 Valletta or Varenna?

Varenna has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 26°C (79°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Varenna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Valletta gets 365 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, Valletta usually receives less rain than Varenna. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valletta or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Valletta during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Varenna in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Valletta is a little warmer than Varenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the autumn, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Valletta gets 221 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. Valletta usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Varenna. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Varenna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Valletta is much warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during winter. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valletta usually receives more rain than Varenna. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valletta or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Varenna. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Varenna because of the natural beauty.

In April, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 16°C (61°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the spring, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Valletta usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Valletta