A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Varenna vs. Turin (Torino) for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Backpackers

Should you visit Varenna or Turin (Torino)?

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 Turin (Torino). 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is a lively, beautiful, and authentic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Varenna and Turin (Torino): 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Varenna or Turin (Torino)?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Varenna. Although Varenna and Turin (Torino) are both popular with visitors, Varenna has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Varenna is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Turin (Torino) is known for its museums and nightlife. Varenna is more touristy than Turin (Torino) and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. It is also home to Lake Como. Turin (Torino) is popular for its grand squares, beautiful palaces, and easy access to the Alps.

Lake Como
Lake Como

How is Varenna different from Turin (Torino)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino). The city boasts a number of museums including The Egyptian Museum, Museo Nazionale del Cinema, and Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile. Other landmarks include the Royal Armory, The Cathedral and the Holy Shroud, and Palazzo Madama.

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 Turin (Torino)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Varenna is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Varenna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Turin (Torino). The region has been credited with being the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement. The dishes often use locally made ingredients and there are very diverse flavors and recipes. Local favorites include antipasto misto, risotto ai funghi (mushroom risotto), and carne cruda (beef tartare).

Is Varenna or Turin (Torino) Better for Nightlife?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino). There's a good nightlife scene that includes everything from bars to dance clubs. Via Po is one of the city's main bar hopping streets. For a more relaxed night out head to Via Garibaldi which has a number of restaurants and cocktail 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 Turin (Torino) Better for Hiking?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Varenna is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Turin (Torino) is not a hiking destination.

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Turin (Torino) is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Turin (Torino)?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Varenna and Turin (Torino).

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 Turin (Torino) to go shopping. The city has everything from high end shopping to local boutiques. For the best luxury shopping head to Via Roma. Via Garibaldi is another popular pedestrian street that has many shops and restaurants.

Is Varenna or Turin (Torino) Better for Families?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Both Varenna and Turin (Torino) are good 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 Turin (Torino). If the kids need to stretch their legs, head to Valentino Park. For kid-friendly museums, check out The Cinema Museum The Egyptian Museum, or the Museum of Car. It's also fun to take a ride of the historic tram.

Is Varenna or Turin (Torino) Better for Couples?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Varenna is renowned for couples. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Varenna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Turin (Torino) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With grand squares, beautiful architecture, and excellent cuisine, couples will enjoy every minute of their trip to Turin. The city is also near the Alps, so outdoor adventure isn't far away.


Is Varenna or Turin (Torino) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino). You'll find hostels around town and easy access to outdoor activities. The city also has great food and a lively atmosphere.

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 Turin (Torino) Better for Students?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

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

Many students visit Turin (Torino). It's relatively easy to find study abroad opportunities to the area. The city's atmosphere is diverse and fun with many activities that the student population can enjoy.

Varenna is not popular with students.

Is Varenna or Turin (Torino) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Turin (Torino) can get you to some places easily. The public transit system is operated by Gruppo Torinese Trasporti (GTT) and includes one metro line, nine tram lines, and a number of bus lines.

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 Varenna or Turin (Torino) a more walkable city?

Varenna
Turin (Torino)

Varenna is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Turin (Torino) is somewhat walkable. While the city is large, the city center is generally compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Varenna Worth Visiting? and Is Turin (Torino) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Turin (Torino) or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Turin (Torino)?

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

Families should spend more time in Varenna than Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino).


  • How many days in Varenna or Turin (Torino)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Varenna 1-2 
    Turin (Torino) 2-3

One day in Varenna or Turin (Torino)?

In Varenna, you'll find food and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Turin (Torino), you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 Turin (Torino)?

Varenna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Turin (Torino), you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Turin (Torino) has to offer.


Five days in Varenna or Turin (Torino)?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Turin (Torino) is a great place to explore. 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 Turin (Torino)?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the village of Varenna. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Turin (Torino). Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Turin (Torino). One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


Which place is cheaper, Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino) is €157. 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 Turin (Torino) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Varenna 86
    Turin (Torino) 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Varenna 172
    Turin (Torino) 158
Compare Hotels in Varenna and Turin (Torino)

Looking for a hotel in Varenna or Turin (Torino)? 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 Turin (Torino)


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 Turin (Torino) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Turin (Torino) 44

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: $365

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Turin (Torino)

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Turin (Torino):

  • Turin Private Transfer from Turin city centre to Turin Airport: $104
  • Turin Private Transfer from Turin Airport to City centre: $104
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Sestriere/Val Chisone-RoundTrip Transfer: $144
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Sestriere/Val Chisone - Arrival Transfer: $72
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Courmayeur - Arrival Private Transfer: $89
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Courchevel La Plagne Round Trip Transfer: $299
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Chamonix - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $144
  • Turin Caselle Airport TRN to Breuil-Cervinia -Round-Trip Transfer: $144
  • Turin Caselle Airport (TRN) to Breuil-Cervinia - Arrival Transfer: $72
  • Turin Airport to Val d'Isere/Morzine/Avoriaz-Arrival Transfer: $89
  • Turin Airport to Val d'Isere Morzine Avoriaz Round-Trip Transfer: $177
  • Turin Airport Private Departure Transfer: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Varenna or Turin (Torino)?

Prices for flights to both Turin (Torino) 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
    Turin (Torino) 43

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: $158

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Turin (Torino)

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Turin (Torino).

  • Bolognese a la Mode | Online Cooking with Chef Abram | Italy: $65
  • Turin Guided Food Tour with Chocolate and Wine Tasting: $70
  • Turin, food tour, taste our tradition.: $86
  • Chocolate and Sweets Tour Turin - I EAT Food Tours & Events: $88
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Castagneto Po with Show Cooking: $94
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Nebbiuno with cooking demo: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Feisoglio with Show Cooking: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Grugliasco with Show Cooking: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Leinì with Show Cooking: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lessona with Show Cooking: $94
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Merana with cooking demo: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casale Monferrato with Show Cooking: $94

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Turin (Torino) 28

Tours and Activities in Varenna

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

  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $93
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $120
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $152
  • Private Boat Tour - Lake Como Bellagio: $500
  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $676
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,579

Tours and Activities in Turin (Torino)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Turin (Torino) are as follows:

  • "Langhe del Barolo" Private E-bike Tour - Asphalt and Dirt Road: $80
  • 2 Hour Dome of Saint Gaudenzio Novara Guided Tour with Ticket : $19
  • 2 Hours Private Guided Tour in Turin Egyptian Museum : $165
  • 2-Hour Private Turin Walking Tour: $111
  • 2-hour Turin guided small group walking tour: $49
  • Baroque Secrets Tour: $50
  • Baroque Turin: Explore Piazza Castello on a Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.22
  • Be a Movie Star Tour for Kids & Families at the Turin National Cinema Museum: $176
  • Best of Turin Full Day Guided Tour with Royal Palace, Duomo & Mole Antonelliana: $276
  • Best of Turin Walking Tour with Royal Palace and Egyptian Museum: $139
  • Bike tour in the historic center of Turin and Valentino Park: $48
  • Canyoning Experience in Sorba River: $72

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Varenna 23
    Turin (Torino) 8.57

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: $101
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Turin (Torino)

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Turin (Torino):

  • 2 Hours Guided Tour and Wine Tasting in the Heart of Roero: $22
  • Unique wine tasting at the Winery of the Marchesi Incisa della Rocchetta: $33
  • Tour of the Historical Cellars and Wine Tasting in Turin: $35
  • Wine Tour and Tasting with the Producer in the Monferrato-Classic: $42
  • Monferrato (Asti province): Barbera Wine Tasting Experience: $43
  • Wine Tasting near Royal Palace of Turin: $47
  • Wine Tour and tasting in the Monferrato - Premium: $48
  • Sommeliers Secrets Wine Tasting in Downtown Turin: $53
  • Monferrato (Asti): Wine Tour with light lunch picnic in the vineyards: $55
  • Langhe and Piedmont Wine Tasting: $61
  • Langhe Barolo and Barbaresco Wine Tasting : $99
  • Cesarine: Turin Wine Tasting & Food Pairing with an Expert : $121


When comparing the travel costs between Varenna and Turin (Torino), 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 Turin (Torino) Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Varenna or Turin (Torino)?

Turin (Torino) has a larger population, and is about 1020 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna and Turin (Torino), 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.