A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Varenna vs. Trento for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Attractions

Should you visit Varenna or Trento?

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 Trento. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Trento

Trento is a youthful, high energy, and dynamic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Varenna and Trento: 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Lake Como
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Varenna or Trento?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Varenna. Although Varenna and Trento are popular destinations, Varenna has more sights and attractions for tourists. Varenna is more touristy than Trento and is known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. It is also well known for Lake Como. Trento is famous for its beautiful mountain scenery and its historical buildings.

Lake Como
Lake Como

How is Varenna different from Trento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Varenna
Trento

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

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 Trento. Perhaps one of the most popular sights is Castello del Buonconsiglio. The Museum of Science is also fun for kids and adults alike and the Duomo is beautiful.


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

Varenna
Trento

Varenna is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Trento is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Varenna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Trento. The food in the region is influenced by nearby countries such as Austria. Carne salada, which is like corned beef, has a long history in the area. Schüttelbrot is a local flatbread and meraner wurst is a bit like a hot dog. You'll also find salamis and various cheeses.

Is Varenna or Trento Better for Nightlife?

Varenna
Trento

Both Varenna and Trento 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.

Trento is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Despite the large student population, there aren't a lot of bars and clubs around town. Most parties are held in private residences, so visitors may find the nightlife scene a bit slow.

Is Varenna or Trento Better for Hiking?

Varenna
Trento

Hiking trails can be found around both Varenna and Trento, and they are high quality.

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 Trento. The surrounding countryside has many beautiful hikes and stunning viewpoints that make for a great outing outside of town.


Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Trento?

Varenna
Trento

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

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 Trento to go shopping. Head to the main shopping street, Via Balenzani for boutique shopping. You'll also find artisan shops and other unique vendors around town.

Is Varenna or Trento Better for Families?

Varenna
Trento

Both Varenna and Trento are nice family-friendly destinations.

Varenna is a family-friendly village. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Trento. Outside of town you'll find plenty of outdoor adventures that the kids will enjoy. In town, there's history and fun kid-friendly museums.

Is Varenna or Trento Better for Couples?

Varenna
Trento

Varenna is terrific for romance. Also, Trento is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Varenna has plenty to offer. 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.

Trento makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town mixes old and new in a beautiful setting that makes for a great romantic getaway. Nearby there are outdoor adventures and in town there's a beautiful atmosphere and great restaurants.


Is Varenna or Trento Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna
Trento

Varenna and Trento 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 Trento. There aren't many hostels in town, but there are some fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Varenna or Trento Better for Students?

Varenna
Trento

Trento is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

Trento is a very popular place to visit for students. It's a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of interesting places to explore in the area.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Varenna
Trento

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

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 Trento, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has a number of bus lines through town.


Is Varenna or Trento a more walkable city?

Varenna
Trento

Varenna is terrific for its walkability. Also, Trento is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Trento is a very walkable village. Much of the city can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Trento or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Trento?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Trento. 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 Trento 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 Trento? Ideal Length of Stay
    Varenna 1-2 
    Trento 1-3

One day in Varenna or Trento?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Trento, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This 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 Trento?

Varenna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Trento, 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 Trento has to offer.


Five days in Varenna or Trento?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Trento is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 Trento?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the pristine destination of Varenna. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Trento. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Trento. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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, Trento 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 Trento is €131. 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 Trento in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Varenna 86
    Trento 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Varenna 172
    Trento 138
Compare Hotels in Varenna and Trento

Looking for a hotel in Varenna or Trento? 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 Trento


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 Trento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Trento 20

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: $356

Is it cheaper to fly into Varenna or Trento?

Prices for flights to both Trento 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
    Trento 42

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: $154

Typical Food Prices in Trento

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Trento:


  • Dinner at Pizzeria (for 2)
    24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Trento

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

  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Trento: $92
  • Small-group Street food tour in Trento: $97
  • Trento Street Food Tour: $98
  • 3 Hours and a Half Private Cooking Class in Trento: $114
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Trento: $141
  • Private market tour, lunch or dinner and cooking demo in Trento: $151
  • Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $154
  • Private cooking class with lunch or dinner in Trento: $157
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Trento: $157
  • Market Tour and Private 3-Recipe Home Cooking Class: $201
  • Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Trento: $205

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Trento 24

Tours and Activities in Varenna

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

  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $661
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,543
  • Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como with Stops & Drinks: $488
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $117
  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $112
  • Lake Como Shared Boat Tour: $32
  • Lake Como Sightseeing Cruise (90 minutes): $42
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $149

Tours and Activities in Trento

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Trento.

  • 8-Day Bike Tour in the Dolomites: $271
  • E-Bike Tour at Lake Ledro: $130
  • Full-Day Self-Guided Garda Vespa Tour departing at Malcesine: $152
  • Long Cruise Gargnano: $57
  • Panoramic Cruise: $38
  • Panoramic Waterfall Cruise: $43
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Trento: $8.67
  • Romantic Cruise: $43
  • Small Group Market tour and Dining Experience at a Cesarina's home in Trento: $118
  • Sunset Cruise: $54
  • Trento Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Trento Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.94

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Varenna 23
    Trento 20

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: $99
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $117

Typical Alcohol Prices in Trento

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Trento are as follows:


  • Beer with Dinner (for 2)
    4.00


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

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


Which is Bigger, Varenna or Trento?

Trento has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna and Trento, 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 Trento?

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 Trento in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Trento. Many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Trento in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Varenna is generally around the same temperature as Trento. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 23°C (73°F), and Trento fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trento this time of the year. In Varenna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Trento during summer. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Trento receives 286 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 Trento. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Trento receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Varenna 23°C (73°F) 
    Trento 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Trento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Varenna as well as Trento. Many visitors come to Varenna in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Trento for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Varenna is around the same temperature as Trento in the autumn. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Trento fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Varenna often gets more sunshine than Trento. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trento receives 137 hours of full sun.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Varenna usually gets more rain in October than Trento. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Trento receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Varenna 15°C (58°F) 
    Trento 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Trento in the Winter?

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

The weather in Trento can be very cold. Varenna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Varenna is much warmer than Trento. Typically, the winter temperatures in Varenna in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Trento averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Varenna usually receives more sunshine than Trento during winter. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Trento receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Varenna usually receives more rain than Trento. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Trento receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Varenna 5°C (41°F) 
    Trento 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Trento in the Spring?

Both Trento and Varenna during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Varenna because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Trento this time of year.

In April, Varenna is generally around the same temperature as Trento. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 13°C (55°F), and Trento fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Varenna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Trento. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Trento receives 169 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in April than Trento. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Trento receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Varenna 13°C (55°F) 
    Trento 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Trento and Varenna

Varenna Trento
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 9°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 19°C (67°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 51 mm (2 in)


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