A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Varenna vs. Bari for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Varenna or Bari?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Varenna and Bari. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Varenna

Varenna is a pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Varenna and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Varenna or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari. Although Varenna and Bari are both popular with visitors, Bari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bari is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Varenna is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Bari and is known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola.

How is Varenna different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari 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 Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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 Varenna or Bari? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Varenna and Bari both to be terrific destinations.

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.

For foodies, Bari is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

Is Varenna or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Bari has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Varenna or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a good destination for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Bari offers a nice beach destination. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Varenna or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Bari is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Varenna or Bari Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a great village for hiking. However, Bari 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.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Bari?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Varenna and Bari.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Varenna. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Many visitors go to Bari to go shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Varenna or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bari is very family-friendly. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Varenna or Bari Better for Couples?

Varenna is terrific for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Varenna or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari 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 Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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 Varenna or Bari Better for Students?

Bari is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

Many students visit Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

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

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

You'll find some public transit in Bari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Varenna or Bari a more walkable city?

Varenna is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

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

Bari is very walkable. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Varenna and Bari. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bari than in Varenna. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Varenna, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bari.

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

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

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

One day in Varenna or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

A weekend in Varenna or Bari?

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Bari, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bari has to offer.

Five days in Varenna or Bari?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful destination of Varenna. This village offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bari 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.

A week in Varenna or Bari?

The pristine village of Varenna offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bari. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to Italy, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Varenna or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 370 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna and Bari, 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 Varenna or Bari?

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 Varenna or Bari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Bari. The summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the summer, Varenna is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Varenna in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In Varenna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Bari during summer. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Varenna usually receives more rain than Bari. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Varenna or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Varenna as well as Bari. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Varenna is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 15°C (58°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Bari. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Varenna usually gets more rain in October than Bari. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. Varenna is much colder than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Varenna usually receives more sunshine than Bari during winter. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Varenna usually receives more rain than Bari. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Varenna or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Varenna during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Varenna is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Varenna in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Bari. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in April than Bari. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Varenna