A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Ventimiglia vs. Como for Food, Couples, Families, and Beaches

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Como?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Como? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a traditional, understated, and classic seaside town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Como

Como is a fun, vibrant, and scenic lake area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Ventimiglia and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Como?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Como. Although Ventimiglia and Como are popular destinations, Como has more sights and attractions for tourists. Como is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Ventimiglia attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Como is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also well known for the lakeside setting. Ventimiglia is famous for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Ventimiglia different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ventimiglia or Como?

Como is a lake area with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ventimiglia or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Como is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Como is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Ventimiglia or Como Better for Nightlife?

Como is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Como Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Ventimiglia and Como are nice choices.

Ventimiglia is a good option for a beach vacation. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Many people head to Como to enjoy the beach. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Ventimiglia or Como Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Ventimiglia to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Ventimiglia or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ventimiglia or Como?

Como is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Como is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Is Ventimiglia or Como Better for Families?

Como is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Como is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Ventimiglia or Como Better for Couples?

Como is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Como makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Ventimiglia is a great seaside town if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Ventimiglia or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Como is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Como is a very popular lake area for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Como.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

While Como offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Ventimiglia or Como a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia and Como both are very good when exploring on foot.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

For even more information, also check out Is Ventimiglia Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Como?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Como than Ventimiglia 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 Como.

One day in Ventimiglia or Como?

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun lake area of Como. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ventimiglia or Como?

Ventimiglia is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fun destination of Como. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This lake area offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ventimiglia or Como?

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This seaside town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The scenic lake area of Como offers shopping and nightlife. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Como?

Because Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Como. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Como?

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

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 Ventimiglia or Como in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Como. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Como in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Como in the summer. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Como. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ventimiglia this time of the year. In the summer, Ventimiglia often gets more sunshine than Como. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in July than Como. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Como in the Autumn?

Both Como and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Como for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Ventimiglia is a little warmer than Como. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ventimiglia in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Como averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Ventimiglia usually receives more sunshine than Como during autumn. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Como. It's quite rainy in Ventimiglia. In October, Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Como. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Como in the Winter?

Both Como and Ventimiglia during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Como because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Como can be very cold. In January, Ventimiglia is generally much warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 9°C (48°F), and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

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

Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in January than Como. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Como in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Como. The spring months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Como this time of year.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Como in the spring. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Ventimiglia usually receives more sunshine than Como during spring. Ventimiglia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ventimiglia usually receives less rain than Como. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Como and Ventimiglia