A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Venice vs. Varenna for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Venice or Varenna?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Varenna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a beautiful, romantic, and cultural city. 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 shopping, museums, and food.

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.

Venice and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Venice. Although Venice and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Venice has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Venice is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Varenna is known for its food and hiking. Venice is more touristy than Varenna and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Varenna is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Venice different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Varenna and Venice. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Venice or Varenna?

Venice is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Venice are world-renowned. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Venice or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is decent in both Venice and Varenna.

Venice doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Most people don't head to Varenna specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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 Venice or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Venice or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is great for hiking. However, Venice is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Varenna for the hiking trails. 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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Varenna?

Venice is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Venice draws large crowds to its stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Many visitors go to Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Venice or Varenna Better for Families?

Venice 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, Venice is very family-friendly. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice or Varenna Better for Couples?

Both Venice and Varenna are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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.

Is Venice or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice 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 Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice or Varenna Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular place to visit for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Venice is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice or Varenna a more walkable city?

Venice and Varenna are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Venice?

How long in Venice or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Venice or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Venice than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

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

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

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

One day in Venice or Varenna?

In Venice, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Venice or Varenna?

In Venice, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer.

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.

Five days in Venice or Varenna?

Venice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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.

A week in Venice or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Venice. In Venice, you'll find museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Venice or Varenna?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Venice and Varenna, 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 Venice or Varenna?

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 Venice or Varenna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Varenna. Many visitors come to Venice in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Varenna this time of the year. In Venice, it's very sunny this time of the year. Venice usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Venice usually receives less rain than Varenna. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Venice or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Venice as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Venice often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Venice usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Venice because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Varenna in the winter. The weather in Venice can be very cold. In the winter, Venice is much colder than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Venice in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during winter. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Venice usually receives less rain than Varenna. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Venice or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Venice during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Varenna for the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Venice often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Venice usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Venice