A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Varna vs. Funchal for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Varna or Funchal?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Varna and Funchal can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Where Should I go: Varna or Funchal?

Varna

Varna is a coastal city on the Black Sea. It's the third largest city in Bulgaria and many people consider it the summer capital of the country. It's a major tourist destination and it can make for a relaxing escape at the beach if you're in Bulgaria during the summer. It is the only city in Bulgaria that cruises visit, and as such, it's tourist infrastructure has grown. In addition to being a tourist destination, Varna is also a business and university center, seaport, and the headquarters of the Bulgarian Navy and merchant marine.

Funchal

Funchal is the capital city of the autonomous region of Madeira on the island of Madeira. The city is located to the south between the cities of Santa Cruz and Camara de Lobos. It is actually named for the fennel plant which grows liberally on the island. The city was most significant as a shipping center between the 15th and 17th centuries. Today it has a population of over 100,000 people and is, arguably, one of the most picturesque cities in Portugal. It's appeal as a tourist destination has made it the leading Portuguese port for cruise line dockings.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Bulgaria, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Bulgaria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Portugal, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Portugal.


Which place is cheaper, Funchal or Varna?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Varna is $65, while the average daily cost in Funchal is $100. 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 Varna and Funchal in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Varna $35
    Funchal $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Varna $70
    Funchal $110
Compare Hotels in Varna and Funchal

Looking for a hotel in Varna or Funchal? 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 Varna


Hotels in Funchal


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: Varna Hotel Prices and Funchal Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Varna $9.33
    Funchal $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Varna

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Varna:

  • Varna to Bucharest - Private Transfer: $644
  • Bucharest to Varna - Private Transfer: $451
  • Private Transfer from Golden Sands to Sofia (SOF) Airport : $300
  • Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Sunny Beach: $219
  • Private Transfer from Albena to Burgas (BOJ) Airport: $155
  • Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Sozopol: $155
  • Varna Airport - Ravda | Airport Transfer,Taxi, Bus, Van Service | Book Now: $136
  • Private Transfer from Golden Sands to Burgas (BOJ) Airport: $131
  • Varna Airport - Nessebar | Airport Transfer,Taxi, Bus, Van Service | Book Now: $131
  • Private Transfer from Varna to Burgas (BOJ) Airport: $128
  • Private Transfer from Saints Constantine and Helena to Burgas (BOJ) Airport: $123
  • Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Pomorie: $118

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Funchal

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

  • Funchal Airport(FNC) to Funchal hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Funchal Airport(FNC) to Madeira Island - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Funchal Private Transfers Service to Madeira Airport: $29
  • Madeira Airport (FNC) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Funchal Hotels or Address): $54
  • Madeira Airport (FNC) Departure Transfer (Funchal Hotels to Madeira Airport): $54
  • Madeira Airport Private Transfers Service To Funchal: $33
  • Madeira Airport Round Trip Shuttle Transfers Service: $49
  • Madeira Airport Shuttle Transfer one way: $9.81
  • Madeira Airport Transfers Round Trip (FNC): $65
  • Madeira Island Transfers: $53
  • Madeira airport transfer for up to 8 people: $49
  • Minibus Transfer: Funchal - Madeira Airport: $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Varna or Funchal?

Prices for flights to both Funchal and Varna 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
    Varna $23
    Funchal $34

Typical Food Prices in Funchal

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


  • Coffee
    $1.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Funchal

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

  • Private Walking Food Tour Around Funchal: $31
  • Madeira Nights Tour - Dinner and Show: $41
  • Sunset Tour to Pico do Arieiro with Dinner and Drinks included: $76
  • Gourmet Wine & Food Tour: $112
  • Gourmet Wine & Food Tour: $112

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Varna $8.55
    Funchal $16

Tours and Activities in Varna

Here are a few actual costs in Varna for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Action Aqua Park Entrance Ticket: $25
  • Audio Guide for All Varna Sights, Attractions or Experiences: $15
  • Bulgaria Day Bike & E-bike Tours - country & sea: $63
  • E-Motorcycle Tour in Old Rock Monastery and Old Roman Fortress : $114
  • From Hiking and Climbing Day Tour: $74
  • From Rock Sanctuaries Hiking Tour: $74
  • Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour to the North of Varna: $206
  • Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour to the South of Varna: $206
  • Full-Day Small-Group Tour of Bulgaria by Minivan with Lunch: $87
  • GPS & Video guided Tour to The North Coast Of The Black Sea: $183
  • Guided Nessebar Sightseeing Tour with Pick Up: $108
  • Half Day Private Bicycle Tour in Varna: $29

Tours and Activities in Funchal

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

  • Portugal eSIM Tourist Data Plan: $4.81
  • Sacred Art Museum of Funchal Entry Ticket: $11
  • Old Funchal Walking Tour: $15
  • Scenic Route - Nuns Valley Tour: $25
  • Funchal Hop-On Hop-Off Tour 3 in 1: $27
  • Christmas Lights in Funchal Tuk Tuk Tour: $27
  • São Vicente Caves and Volcano Center Half-Day Tour: $27
  • Majestic West Tour : $31
  • Amazing East Tour : $31
  •  Magnificent East Tour: $33
  • Exorbitant West Tour: $33
  • Santana / Typical Houses Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Varna $8.52
    Funchal $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Varna

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Varna:

  • Private Exploration: French Influence in Varna + Walking + Wine tasting tour: $53
  • Bulgarian Wine Tasting & Art Gallery Experience in Varna: $53
  • Varna Exquisite Wine Tasting: $64
  • Private Varna Gourmet Tour with Superb Wine Tasting: $64
  • The Ultimate Private Varna Walking, Culture & Wine Tasting Tour: $75
  • E-bike & Wine Tour to the Bulgarian Coast: $104
  • Varna Gourmet Tour including Wine Tasting: $127

Sample the Local Flavors in Funchal

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

  • Skywalk and 4x4 Adventure with Amazing Views and Wine Tasting: $49
  • Half day jeep Wine tour and tasting, & sea cliff adventure: $53
  • Bestselling Wine Tour, Tasting Experience & Skywalk 4x4 Adventure: $53
  • Wine tasting and Jeep Adventure in Madeira's Majestic Countryside: $56
  • Pub Crawl: $59
  • Shore Excursion: Private Madeira Tour & Wine Tasting: $86
  • Amazing Skywalk, Wine Tasting & 4x4 Adventure + Dolphin Watching: $97
  • Guided Toboggan Ride and Madeira Wine Tasting Tour: $98
  • Tuk Tuk Wine Tour - Madeira Island: $102
  • Weekends Madeira Wine Tasting São Vicente: $109
  • Wine Tour by Overland Madeira: $150
  • Visiting local Vineyard With Wine Tasting & Lunch included: $158


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Varna and Funchal, we can see that Funchal is more expensive. And not only is Varna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Varna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Varna 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 Funchal would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Funchal than you might in Varna.

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


Which is Bigger, Varna or Funchal?

Varna has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Funchal. When comparing the sizes of Varna and Funchal, 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 Varna or Funchal?

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 Varna or Funchal in the Summer?

Both Funchal and Varna during the summer are popular places to visit.

In July, Varna is generally around the same temperature as Funchal. Daily temperatures in Varna average around 23°C (73°F), and Funchal fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Funchal, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Varna. In the summer, Varna often gets more sunshine than Funchal. Varna gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Funchal receives 227 hours of full sun.

Varna usually gets more rain in July than Funchal. Varna gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Funchal receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Varna 23°C (73°F) 
    Funchal 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Varna or Funchal in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Varna and Funchal.

Varna is cooler than Funchal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Varna averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Funchal fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Varna usually receives less sunshine than Funchal during autumn. Varna gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Funchal receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Funchal receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Varna usually receives less rain than Funchal. Varna gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Funchal receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Varna 14°C (57°F) 
    Funchal 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Varna or Funchal in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Varna as well as Funchal.

Varna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Varna is much colder than Funchal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Varna in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Funchal averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the winter, Varna often gets less sunshine than Funchal. Varna gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Funchal receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Funchal. Varna usually gets less rain in January than Funchal. Varna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Funchal receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Varna 3°C (37°F) 
    Funchal 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Varna or Funchal in the Spring?

Both Funchal and Varna are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

In April, Varna is generally much colder than Funchal. Daily temperatures in Varna average around 11°C (52°F), and Funchal fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Varna usually receives less sunshine than Funchal during spring. Varna gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Funchal receives 182 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Varna usually receives less rain than Funchal. Varna gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Funchal receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Varna 11°C (52°F) 
    Funchal 17°C (63°F)

Typical Weather for Funchal and Varna

Varna Funchal
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 19°C (66°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 14°C (57°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)