A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Varenna vs. Finale Ligure for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Varenna or Finale Ligure?

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 Finale Ligure. 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 beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a relaxing, beautiful, and scenic area. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Varenna and Finale Ligure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Lake Como
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Varenna or Finale Ligure?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Finale Ligure. Although Varenna and Finale Ligure are popular destinations, Finale Ligure has more sights and attractions for tourists. Finale Ligure is very popular for its resorts and beaches, while Varenna attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Finale Ligure and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Finale Ligure is famous for its sandy beaches and great food. It is also well known for the sandy beaches.

How is Varenna different from Finale Ligure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Varenna and Finale Ligure.

Varenna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Finale Ligure. The natural beauty is the main attraction to this part of Liguria, but there are also medieval towns such as Finalborgo and historic places such as Castel Gavone.


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

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Varenna is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Varenna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Finale Ligure has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Seafood, local flavors, and even a couple of Michelin starred restaurants make this area a foodie's paradise. The dishes are rich in flavors and fine dining is common throughout the area.

Is Varenna or Finale Ligure Better for Nightlife?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Both Varenna and Finale Ligure have reasonable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Varenna. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Finale Ligure is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. This beautiful coastline is filled with fine dining restaurants and some nice wine and cocktail bars. It's not known for its party scene, but there are some nice places to spend the evening.

Is Varenna or Finale Ligure Better for Resorts?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Finale Ligure makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find a mix of smaller local hotels, many with pools, along the coastline. There are also a number of apartments to choose from.

Varenna is not a resort destination.


Is Varenna or Finale Ligure Better for Beaches?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

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

Many people visit Finale Ligure for it's beautiful beaches. This stretch of coastline has the longest sandy beaches in Liguria. You'll also find dramatic cliffs and beautiful views.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Varenna or Finale Ligure Better for Hiking?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Hiking trails can be found around both Varenna and Finale Ligure, 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 Finale Ligure. There are many walking and trekking trails along the coast and through the hills. You'll pass medieval towns and beautiful viewpoints that let you experience the Ligurian coastline in all of its beauty.

Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Finale Ligure?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Varenna and Finale Ligure.

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 Finale Ligure to go shopping. You'll find clothing boutiques, food specialty stores, and places to pick up anything that you may have forgotten.


Is Varenna or Finale Ligure Better for Families?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure 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, Finale Ligure is very family-friendly. This section of the Italian Riviera has the longest sandy beach in Liguria. There are also places where kids can swim and just relax from sightseeing and travel.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Couples?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Varenna is terrific for romance. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Finale Ligure is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. With its sandy beaches and seaside cliffs, this area makes a great romantic getaway. Italian food on the Italian Riviera - what could be more romantic.

Is Varenna or Finale Ligure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Varenna and Finale Ligure are both nice destinations for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Finale Ligure. While there aren't a lot of hostels, there are a few reasonably priced guesthouses to choose from.


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

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Varenna and Finale Ligure.

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 Finale Ligure, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both trains and buses through the area.

Is Varenna or Finale Ligure a more walkable city?

Varenna
Finale Ligure

Varenna is terrific for its walkability. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Finale Ligure is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walking routes throughout this stretch of coastline.

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

Should I spend more time in Finale Ligure or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Finale Ligure?

It's fun to spend time in either Varenna or Finale Ligure. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Finale Ligure due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Varenna, and 2-4 days is enough time in Finale Ligure.

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

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Finale Ligure. 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 Varenna than Finale Ligure 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 Varenna.


  • How many days in Varenna or Finale Ligure? Ideal Length of Stay
    Varenna 1-2 
    Finale Ligure 2-4

One day in Varenna or Finale Ligure?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the pristine destination of Varenna. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Finale Ligure, you'll find museums and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Varenna or Finale Ligure?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Finale Ligure, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Finale Ligure has to offer.

Five days in Varenna or Finale Ligure?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the pristine destination of Varenna. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Finale Ligure is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Finale Ligure?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful village of Varenna. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Finale Ligure. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Finale Ligure. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Finale Ligure or Varenna?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Varenna is €164, while the average daily cost in Finale Ligure is €143. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Varenna and Finale Ligure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Varenna 86
    Finale Ligure 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Varenna 172
    Finale Ligure 148
Compare Hotels in Varenna and Finale Ligure

Looking for a hotel in Varenna or Finale Ligure? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Varenna


Hotels in Finale Ligure


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Varenna Hotel Prices and Finale Ligure Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Finale Ligure 56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Varenna

Also for Varenna, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Varenna : Private transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $358

Is it cheaper to fly into Varenna or Finale Ligure?

Prices for flights to both Finale Ligure and Varenna change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Varenna 53
    Finale Ligure 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Varenna

For Varenna, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $155

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Finale Ligure 28

Tours and Activities in Varenna

For Varenna, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Lake Como Shared Boat Tour: $32
  • Lake Como Sightseeing Cruise (90 minutes): $43
  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $112
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $118
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $150
  • Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como with Stops & Drinks: $491
  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $664
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,551

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Varenna 23
    Finale Ligure 6.99

Sample the Local Flavors in Varenna

Also in Varenna, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Castello di Vezio: $112
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $134


When comparing the travel costs between Varenna and Finale Ligure, we can see that Varenna is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Varenna or Finale Ligure?

Finale Ligure has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna and Finale Ligure, 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 Finale Ligure?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Varenna or Finale Ligure in the Summer?

Both Finale Ligure and Varenna during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Varenna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Finale Ligure for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Varenna is generally around the same temperature as Finale Ligure. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 23°C (73°F), and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Finale Ligure, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Varenna. In the summer, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Finale Ligure. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Finale Ligure receives 295 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in July than Finale Ligure. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Varenna 23°C (73°F) 
    Finale Ligure 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Finale Ligure in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Finale Ligure. Many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Finale Ligure in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Varenna is cooler than Finale Ligure in the autumn. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Finale Ligure during autumn. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Finale Ligure receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Varenna usually receives more rain than Finale Ligure. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Varenna 15°C (58°F) 
    Finale Ligure 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Finale Ligure in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Varenna as well as Finale Ligure. Many visitors come to Varenna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Finale Ligure for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Varenna can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Varenna is much colder than Finale Ligure. Typically, the winter temperatures in Varenna in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Finale Ligure averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Varenna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Finale Ligure. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Finale Ligure receives 127 hours of full sun.

Varenna usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Finale Ligure. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Varenna 5°C (41°F) 
    Finale Ligure 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Finale Ligure in the Spring?

Both Finale Ligure and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Varenna for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Finale Ligure because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Varenna is generally cooler than Finale Ligure. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 13°C (55°F), and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Finale Ligure during spring. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Finale Ligure receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. In April, Varenna usually receives more rain than Finale Ligure. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Varenna 13°C (55°F) 
    Finale Ligure 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Finale Ligure and Varenna

Varenna Finale Ligure
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)


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