A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zaragoza vs. Varenna for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zaragoza or Varenna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zaragoza or Varenna, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a historical, compact, and authentic 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 pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Zaragoza and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
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 Zaragoza or Varenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zaragoza. Although Zaragoza and Varenna are both popular with visitors, Zaragoza has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zaragoza is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Zaragoza and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene. It is also home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar.

How is Zaragoza different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zaragoza
Varenna

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the AljaferĂ­a Palace, among others.

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 Zaragoza or Varenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Varenna is an amazing village to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Varenna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Zaragoza or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

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 Zaragoza or Varenna Better for its Old Town?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.


Is Zaragoza or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Varenna is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zaragoza or Varenna?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is well-known for its shopping. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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

Is Zaragoza or Varenna Better for Families?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Zaragoza and Varenna are both good destinations for the whole family.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly place to visit. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Varenna is a family-friendly city. 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 Zaragoza or Varenna Better for Couples?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Varenna is an amazing village to visit for couples. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Zaragoza makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Zaragoza or Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Both Zaragoza and Varenna are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Zaragoza. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Varenna is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Zaragoza or Varenna Better for Students?

Zaragoza
Varenna

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

Plenty of students visit Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Varenna is not popular with students.


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

Zaragoza
Varenna

Zaragoza is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Zaragoza can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around the city.

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 Zaragoza or Varenna a more walkable city?

Zaragoza
Varenna

Varenna is an amazing village to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Zaragoza?

How long in Zaragoza or Varenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zaragoza or Varenna to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza, and 1-2 days is enough time in Varenna.

Couples should spend more time in Varenna than Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza.


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

One day in Zaragoza or Varenna?

In Zaragoza, 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.

The beautiful village of Varenna offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Zaragoza or Varenna?

In Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza has to offer.

Varenna is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this village makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Varenna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Zaragoza or Varenna?

Zaragoza 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.

Varenna is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

A week in Zaragoza or Varenna?

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

Varenna is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This village offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Varenna or Zaragoza?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Zaragoza is €126, 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 Zaragoza and Varenna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zaragoza 65
    Varenna 86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zaragoza 130
    Varenna 172
Compare Hotels in Zaragoza and Varenna

Looking for a hotel in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza


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: Zaragoza Hotel Prices and Varenna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zaragoza 23
    Varenna 34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $66
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $66
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $66

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: $358

Is it cheaper to fly into Zaragoza or Varenna?

Prices for flights to both Varenna and Zaragoza 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
    Zaragoza 41
    Varenna 53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zaragoza

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zaragoza.

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $108

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.
    Zaragoza 35
    Varenna 34

Tours and Activities in Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • Complete tour + wine and tapas: $202
  • Evening traditional tapas walking tour in old Zaragoza center: $104
  • Haft-day Winery tour from Zaragoza: $158
  • Kayaking in Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS: $44
  • Midday Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Old Town of Belchite: $102
  • Midday market and tapas tour of Zaragoza: $104
  • Monumental Walking Tour in Old Town of Zaragoza: $93
  • Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Belchite Old Town: $104
  • Olive Oil and Winery Tour from Zaragoza City: $164
  • Private custom tour with a local guide Zaragoza: $49
  • Zaragoza - Historic Walking Tour: $320
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19

Tours and Activities in Varenna

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

  • Lake Como Shared Boat Tour: $32
  • Lake Como Sightseeing Cruise (90 minutes): $43
  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $112
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $118
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $150
  • Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como with Stops & Drinks: $491
  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $664
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,551

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zaragoza 14
    Varenna 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Zaragoza

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Zaragoza:

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $102
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $104

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: $112
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $134


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zaragoza and Varenna, we can see that Varenna is more expensive. And not only is Zaragoza much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zaragoza would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza.

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


Which is Bigger, Zaragoza or Varenna?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 770 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza or Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Zaragoza during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 26°C (79°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Varenna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zaragoza. In the summer, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Zaragoza gets 344 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zaragoza usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Zaragoza gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F) 
    Varenna 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Varenna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zaragoza and Varenna. Many visitors come to Zaragoza in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during autumn. Zaragoza gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Varenna. Zaragoza gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F) 
    Varenna 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zaragoza as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Zaragoza for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Varenna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Varenna can be very cold. In the winter, Zaragoza is much warmer than Varenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zaragoza in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Varenna averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Zaragoza gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in January than Varenna. Zaragoza gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F) 
    Varenna 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Zaragoza or Varenna in the Spring?

Both Varenna and Zaragoza are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

In April, Zaragoza is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 15°C (58°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during spring. Zaragoza gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In April, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Varenna. Zaragoza gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F) 
    Varenna 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Varenna and Zaragoza

Zaragoza Varenna
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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