A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Volos vs. Arachova for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Volos or Arachova?

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 Volos and Arachova can help you decide which place is right for you.

Volos

Volos is a authentic, vibrant, and youthful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and food.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Volos and Arachova: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Volos or Arachova?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Volos. Although Volos and Arachova are popular destinations, Volos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Volos is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Arachova attracts visitors for its skiing, museums, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Arachova is more touristy than Volos and is popular for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Volos is famous for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty. It is also well known for The Archaeological Museum of Volos.

How is Volos different from Arachova?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Volos or Arachova Better for Skiing?

Volos
Arachova

Arachova is very good for skiing and snowboarding. However, Volos is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Volos is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Volos or Arachova?

Volos
Arachova

Arachova is very good for its museums and history. However, Volos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Volos offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.

Is the Food Better in Volos or Arachova? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Volos
Arachova

Foodies will find both Volos and Arachova both to be excellent destinations.

Volos has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

Dining out in Arachova is an experience not to be missed. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Volos or Arachova Better for Nightlife?

Volos
Arachova

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Volos and Arachova.

Volos has a large number of nightlife venues. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.


Is Volos or Arachova Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volos
Arachova

Volos is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Volos has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Volos or Arachova Better for Beaches?

Volos
Arachova

Volos is well known for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Volos. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Volos or Arachova Better for its Old Town?

Volos
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its old town. However, Volos does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Volos does not have a historic old town.


Is Volos or Arachova Better for Hiking?

Volos
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Volos is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Volos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Volos or Arachova?

Volos
Arachova

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Volos and Arachova.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Volos. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

Many visitors go to Arachova to go shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Volos or Arachova Better for Families?

Volos
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Arachova is very family-friendly. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Volos. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.


Is Volos or Arachova Better for Couples?

Volos
Arachova

Arachova is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Arachova makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Volos is a good city for couples to visit. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.

Is Volos or Arachova Better for Students?

Volos
Arachova

Volos is a nice place to visit for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Volos is popular with students. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

Arachova is not popular with students.

Is Volos or Arachova Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Volos
Arachova

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Volos and Arachova.

Volos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that travels around town.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.


Is Volos or Arachova a more walkable city?

Volos
Arachova

Volos is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Volos is very walkable. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore on foot.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Volos Worth Visiting? and Is Arachova Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arachova or Volos?

How long in Volos or Arachova?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Volos and Arachova. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Arachova than in Volos. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Volos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Arachova.

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

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


  • How many days in Volos or Arachova? Ideal Length of Stay
    Volos 1-2 
    Arachova 2-3

One day in Volos or Arachova?

The city of Volos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Arachova, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Volos or Arachova?

Volos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Volos, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Volos or Arachova?

Volos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Arachova is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Volos or Arachova?

Volos is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums and skiing around the bustling destination of Arachova. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best 2-Week Tours from Athens, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Arachova or Volos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Volos is €95, while the average daily cost in Arachova is €112. 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 Volos and Arachova in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volos 43
    Arachova 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volos 86
    Arachova 100
Compare Hotels in Volos and Arachova

Looking for a hotel in Volos or Arachova? 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 Volos


Hotels in Arachova


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: Volos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volos 37
    Arachova 51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volos

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

  • From Volos to Athens Airport / Athens / Piraeus Private Transfer: $280
  • Volos to Athens Easy & Economy Transfer: $521
  • Volos to Athens, Athens Airport and Piraeus Port Private Transfer: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Volos or Arachova?

Prices for flights to both Arachova and Volos 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
    Volos 30
    Arachova 29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volos

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

  • Cooking Session "Pelion Flavours": $71
  • Cook like a local Greek Cooking lesson in Mt Pelion Greece: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volos 17
    Arachova 28

Tours and Activities in Volos

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

  • Kayaking Adventure around Pelion Coastline : $33
  • East Pelion - Sea Kayak Tour "Short Paddle": $38
  • Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour "The Secret Cave": $49
  • HIKING PELION - Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $197
  • BIKING PELION Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $211
  • From Hidden Sights of Meteora Private Tour: $213
  • Volos Pelion Full Day Tour : $240
  • Pagasetic Gulf Full-Day Sailboat Experience: $732

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volos 7.86
    Arachova 6.43


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

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


Which is Bigger, Volos or Arachova?

Volos has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Volos and Arachova, 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 Volos or Arachova?

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 Volos or Arachova in the Summer?

Both Arachova and Volos during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Volos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Volos is generally around the same temperature as Arachova. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 26°C (78°F), and Arachova fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Volos. In the summer, Volos often gets less sunshine than Arachova. Volos gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arachova receives 357 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets more rain in July than Arachova. Volos gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Arachova receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volos 26°C (78°F) 
    Arachova 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Volos or Arachova in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Volos and Arachova. Many travelers come to Volos for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

Volos is cooler than Arachova in the autumn. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Arachova fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. Volos usually receives less sunshine than Arachova during autumn. Volos gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Arachova receives 206 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Volos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arachova. Volos gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arachova receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volos 17°C (62°F) 
    Arachova 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Volos or Arachova in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Volos as well as Arachova. Many visitors come to Volos in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Volos is much colder than Arachova. Typically, the winter temperatures in Volos in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Arachova averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Volos often gets less sunshine than Arachova. Volos gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arachova receives 143 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in January than Arachova. Volos gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Arachova receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volos 6°C (42°F) 
    Arachova 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Volos or Arachova in the Spring?

Both Arachova and Volos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Volos for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm.

In April, Volos is generally cooler than Arachova. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 14°C (56°F), and Arachova fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volos. Volos usually receives less sunshine than Arachova during spring. Volos gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Arachova receives 226 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volos usually receives more rain than Arachova. Volos gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Arachova receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Volos 14°C (56°F) 
    Arachova 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Arachova and Volos

Volos Arachova
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)