A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Verona vs. Varenna for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Verona or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Verona 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.

Verona

Verona is a cultural, beautiful, and stunning 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

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking.

Verona and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Lake Como
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Verona or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Verona than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Verona is better known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Varenna is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Verona is well known for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. Also, Verona is famous for Juliet's House and Balcony. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Verona different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Verona
Varenna

Verona 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 Verona. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

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 Verona or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Verona
Varenna

Varenna is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in Verona is an experience not to be missed. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Is Verona or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Verona
Varenna

Verona 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 Verona. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

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 Verona or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Verona
Varenna

Verona 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 Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.


Is Verona or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Verona
Varenna

Varenna is a great village for hiking. However, Verona 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.

Verona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Verona or Varenna?

Verona
Varenna

If you're looking to go shopping, Verona and Varenna both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Verona. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

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

Is Verona or Varenna Better for Families?

Verona
Varenna

Varenna is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.


Is Verona or Varenna Better for Couples?

Verona
Varenna

Varenna is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Verona is a very popular place to visit for couples. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

Is Verona or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Verona
Varenna

For backpackers, both Verona and Varenna are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Verona. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Varenna is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Verona or Varenna Better for Students?

Verona
Varenna

Verona is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Verona. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

Varenna is not popular with students.


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

Verona
Varenna

Verona and Varenna both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Verona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. ATV operates buses through the city.

Varenna has a few public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Verona or Varenna a more walkable city?

Verona
Varenna

Varenna is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Verona is a very walkable destination. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Verona?

How long in Verona or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Verona or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Verona than Varenna because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Verona, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

Families should spend more time in Varenna than Verona. 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 Verona. 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 Verona 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 Verona.


  • How many days in Verona or Varenna? Ideal Length of Stay
    Verona 1-3 
    Varenna 1-2

One day in Verona or Varenna?

In Verona, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Verona or Varenna?

In Verona, 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 Verona 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 Verona or Varenna?

Verona 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.

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 Verona or Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Verona. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Verona. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the pristine 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 10-Day Tours in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Varenna or Verona?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Verona is €168, while the average daily cost in Varenna is €164. 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 Verona and Varenna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Verona 107
    Varenna 86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Verona 214
    Varenna 172
Compare Hotels in Verona and Varenna

Looking for a hotel in Verona or Varenna? 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 Verona


Hotels in Varenna


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: Verona Hotel Prices and Varenna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Verona 6.88
    Varenna 34
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Verona

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Verona:


  • Bus From Airport
    6.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Verona

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

  • private transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $618
  • 1-Way private Transfer to Valerio Catullo Airport: $69
  • 1-Way Private Transfer to/from Marco Polo Airport: $659
  • Verona to Venice Airport VCE Departure Private Transfer: $96
  • Verona to Milan Private Transfer: $110
  • Verona Private Transfer - to/from any location: $56
  • Verona Airport:1-Way Private Transfer to Venice+water taxi: $533
  • Verona Airport(VRN): 1-Way Transfer to Venice, Piazzale Roma: $432
  • Verona Airport(VRN) to Val Gardena/Alta Badia-Round-Trip Transfer: $206
  • Verona Airport (VRN): One Way Transfer to Venice+WaterTaxi: $501
  • Verona Airport (VRN) to Verona - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Verona Airport (VRN) to Venice - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159

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: $357

Is it cheaper to fly into Verona or Varenna?

Prices for flights to both Varenna and Verona 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
    Verona 54
    Varenna 53
Typical Food Prices in Verona

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


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    36
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    23
  • Cappucino
    1.75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Verona

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

  • Guided Food Tour with Wine Tasting: $63
  • Tortellini Cooking Class and Lunch with Mamma Ivana: $64
  • Eat Drink and Love wine and food tour: $81
  • Small Group Cooking Class in Valpolicella with Licensed Guide: $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Fumane with Show Cooking: $92
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Soave: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Castelnuovo del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Food Tour with Amarone Wine Tasting: $95
  • Verona Food Tour with Guide: $95
  • Wine and Food Tour with Dinner and Tastings: $96
  • Verona Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $101
  • Italian Cuisine Cooking Class: $101

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: $155

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Verona 12
    Varenna 34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Verona

For Verona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Juliet's House Entry
    4.00
  • Verona Card
    10

Tours and Activities in Verona

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

  • Amarone wine experience in Verona countryside: $37
  • "Let yourself be guided .. Let yourself be pampered" Private Tour: $217
  • 3 Hour Shared Walking and Aperitivo Tour of Verona: $67
  • 3 Hour Walking tour of Verona and Arena: $142
  • 4-Hour Guided E-bike Tour of the Two Wineries in Bardolino: $118
  • A Charming Verona Small Group Stress Free City Tour with a Local Guide: $60
  • A day in the life of Verona - Private tour with a local: $223
  • Amarone 2005 Wine Experience: $33
  • Amarone Della Valpolicella Wine Experience - Meet the Vogadori Family: $38
  • Amarone Wine Experience at Montresor winery: $33
  • Arena & Surroundings Private Tour With Locals : $223
  • Arena di Verona Opera - Ticket + 1h City guided walking tour: $71

Tours and Activities in Varenna

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

  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $662
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,545
  • Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como with Stops & Drinks: $489
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $117
  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $112
  • Lake Como Shared Boat Tour: $32
  • Lake Como Sightseeing Cruise (90 minutes): $43
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Verona 11
    Varenna 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Verona

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

  • Wine tasting in Bardolino: $26
  • Valpolicella Wine Tour and Tasting in Medieval Court: $33
  • Amarone Wine Tour: $35
  • Amarone Wine Tasting in Valpolicella | 3 Wines + Snacks: $36
  • Montresor Winery Visit with Wine Tasting and Snacks: $37
  • Valdadige: Roeno Guided Tour and Wine tasting: $37
  • Food and Wine Tasting in Valpolicella: $38
  • Verona area: Wine Tasting Experience in Valpolicella: $38
  • Unique Wine tasting in Verona, with Amarone docg: $41
  • Lazise: Historical Center Wine Tasting Tour: $43
  • Lake Garda: Wine Tour & Tasting Experience in Bardolino area: $43
  • Wine Tasting near Juliet's Balcony in Verona: $45

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: $99
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $117


When comparing the travel costs between Verona and Varenna, we can see that Verona 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 Verona Expensive? and Is Varenna Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Verona or Varenna?

Verona has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Verona 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 Verona 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 Verona or Varenna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Verona and Varenna. Most visitors come to Verona for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Verona is around the same temperature as Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Verona averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Varenna this time of the year. In Verona, it's very sunny this time of the year. Verona usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Verona gets 286 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, Verona usually receives less rain than Varenna. Verona gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Verona 24°C (75°F) 
    Varenna 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Verona or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Verona as well as Varenna. The autumn months attract visitors to Verona because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

In the autumn, Verona is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Verona in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Verona often gets less sunshine than Varenna. Verona gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Verona usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Verona gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Verona 14°C (57°F) 
    Varenna 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Verona or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Verona are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Verona 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. It's quite cold in Verona in the winter. In January, Verona is generally much colder than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Verona average around 2°C (36°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Verona usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during winter. Verona gets 98 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Verona usually receives less rain than Varenna. Verona gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Verona 2°C (36°F) 
    Varenna 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Verona or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Verona during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Verona for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Verona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna. Verona gets 169 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. Verona usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Verona gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Verona 13°C (55°F) 
    Varenna 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Varenna and Verona

Verona Varenna
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 88 mm (3.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 75 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)