A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Arles for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Families

Should you visit Aberdeen or Arles?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Arles? 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.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a architectural, authentic, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen and Arles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Arles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Aberdeen than Arles. Aberdeen is bigger than Arles, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Aberdeen is better known for its big city activities, while Arles is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Aberdeen is well known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Also, Aberdeen is famous for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Aberdeen different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Arles?

Aberdeen
Arles

Arles is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Arles that are not to be missed. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Many visitors head to Aberdeen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.


Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aberdeen
Arles

Arles is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arles makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Aberdeen or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Arles

Both Aberdeen and Arles are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Aberdeen or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Arles

Arles is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Arles offers plenty to see. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.


Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Arles?

Aberdeen
Arles

Both Aberdeen and Arles are notable shopping destinations.

Aberdeen is a great destination for shopping. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Aberdeen or Arles Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Arles

Aberdeen is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Aberdeen or Arles Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Arles

Arles is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Arles is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.


Is Aberdeen or Arles Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Arles

Aberdeen is very good for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Aberdeen is popular with students. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Arles is not popular with students.

Is Aberdeen or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aberdeen
Arles

Both Aberdeen and Arles offer notable public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Arles has some public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Aberdeen or Arles a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Arles

Aberdeen and Arles both are great when exploring on foot.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Arles is a very walkable city. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Arles?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arles than Aberdeen 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 Arles.


  • How many days in Aberdeen or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aberdeen 2-3 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Aberdeen or Arles?

In Aberdeen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

The beautiful town of Arles offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Aberdeen or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

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

Five days in Aberdeen or Arles?

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

Arles is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums 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 Aberdeen or Arles?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Aberdeen. 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.

Arles is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Aberdeen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aberdeen is £121, while the average daily cost in Arles is £121. 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 Aberdeen and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Arles £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Arles £122
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Arles? 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 Aberdeen


Hotels in Arles


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: Aberdeen Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Arles £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Aberdeen 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
    Aberdeen £35
    Arles £44

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    £3.85
  • Ice Cream
    £0.86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aberdeen £19
    Arles £26

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

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

  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Skip the Line: The Gordon Highlanders Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside 1-Day Tour from Aberdeen: $64
  • From Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee: $65
  • St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $67

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    £4.71

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Arles £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

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

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


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


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Arles?

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

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 Aberdeen or Arles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Arles. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 14°C (58°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Arles. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Arles. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Aberdeen is much colder than Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Arles. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Arles. Aberdeen usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Aberdeen can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Aberdeen is much colder than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aberdeen in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Arles. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Aberdeen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Arles because of the natural beauty.

In April, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 7°C (44°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Arles. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Arles. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)