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

Should you visit Varenna or Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik. 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.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a historic, charming, and famous coastal town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Varenna and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Varenna or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Varenna and Dubrovnik are both popular with visitors, Dubrovnik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Varenna and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. It is also home to The Old Town Walls. Varenna is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Varenna different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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 Dubrovnik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Varenna and Dubrovnik both to be amazing 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, Dubrovnik is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

Is Varenna or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Dubrovnik to choose from. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Varenna or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Varenna or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

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

Dubrovnik offers a nice beach destination. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Varenna or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Dubrovnik is revered around the world. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Varenna or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Varenna and Dubrovnik, and they are superb.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dubrovnik. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Dubrovnik?

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

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 Dubrovnik to go shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Varenna or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik is very family-friendly. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Varenna and Dubrovnik both amazing destinations for a couple.

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.

Dubrovnik makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

Is Varenna or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Dubrovnik is extremely popular for backpackers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

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 Dubrovnik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Varenna or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Varenna and Dubrovnik are amazing when it comes to walkability.

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

Getting around Dubrovnik on foot is easy. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Dubrovnik?

In either Varenna or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Varenna because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Varenna, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

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

One day in Varenna or Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the village of Varenna. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Varenna has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This coastal town 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 Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and food around the pristine destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Dubrovnik has to offer.

Five days in Varenna or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic village of Varenna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Varenna or Dubrovnik?

Varenna is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dubrovnik. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Varenna or Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Dubrovnik. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Varenna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Varenna is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Varenna in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Varenna usually receives more rain than Dubrovnik. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Varenna or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Varenna as well as Dubrovnik. Many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Varenna is generally cooler than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 15°C (58°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Varenna usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Varenna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Varenna can get quite cold in the winter. Varenna is much colder than Dubrovnik in the winter. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In January, Varenna usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Varenna or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Varenna during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Varenna for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Varenna is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Varenna in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in April than Dubrovnik. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Varenna