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

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Varenna? 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 classic, authentic, and elegant seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Varenna

Varenna is a pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Ventimiglia and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Varenna. Although Ventimiglia and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Varenna has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Varenna is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and hiking, while Ventimiglia is known for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Varenna is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. It is also home to Lake Como. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

Lake Como

How is Ventimiglia different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Varenna is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Varenna 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, Varenna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 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 Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Varenna is a village with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

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 Varenna Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia is a good destination for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Ventimiglia offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ventimiglia. 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.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Ventimiglia or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna 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 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.

Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ventimiglia or Varenna?

Ventimiglia is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Ventimiglia is well-known for its shopping. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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

Is Ventimiglia or Varenna Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ventimiglia or Varenna.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ventimiglia. 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.

Varenna offers lots of family activities. 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 Ventimiglia or Varenna Better for Couples?

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

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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 Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Varenna 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 Varenna.

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 Varenna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Ventimiglia or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ventimiglia or Varenna to fill your time. In our opinion, Varenna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Varenna than Ventimiglia. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Ventimiglia or Varenna?

Ventimiglia is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This seaside town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic village of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ventimiglia or Varenna?

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Ventimiglia has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Varenna. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This village 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 Varenna?

Ventimiglia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

The beautiful village of Varenna offers museums and food. 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 Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. Since Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Varenna. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the food. 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 Varenna, we can see that Varenna 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 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 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 Varenna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Varenna?

Ventimiglia has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia or Varenna?

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 Varenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

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

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

Ventimiglia is a little warmer than Varenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. It's quite rainy in Ventimiglia. In October, Ventimiglia usually receives less rain than Varenna. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Ventimiglia during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. In the winter, Ventimiglia is much warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ventimiglia in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

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

Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in January than Varenna. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Varenna. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Ventimiglia is generally around the same temperature as Varenna. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 13°C (56°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Ventimiglia usually receives less rain than Varenna. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Ventimiglia