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

Should you visit Aberdeen or Cannes?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Cannes? 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 historic, cultural, and architectural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cannes

Cannes is a luxury, lavish, and glitzy resort city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Aberdeen and Cannes: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Cannes?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cannes than Aberdeen. While Aberdeen is larger than Cannes, Cannes has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cannes is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Aberdeen is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Cannes is more touristy than Aberdeen and is known for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. Also, Cannes is famous for Boulevard de la Croisette. Aberdeen is well known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities.

How is Aberdeen different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Aberdeen
Cannes

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Aberdeen
Cannes

Cannes is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Cannes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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 Cannes Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Cannes is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Cannes offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is Aberdeen or Cannes Better for Music?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Cannes is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Aberdeen is not a live music destination.

Cannes is a world class music destination. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Aberdeen is not a live music destination.


Is Aberdeen or Cannes Better for Resorts?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Cannes is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Aberdeen is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cannes is a great choice. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Aberdeen is not a resort destination.

Is Aberdeen or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Cannes is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Aberdeen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cannes has a few good snorkeling spots. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Aberdeen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Aberdeen or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Cannes is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Aberdeen is not a beach destination.

Cannes is considered a top beach destination. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Aberdeen is not a beach destination.


Is Aberdeen or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Cannes

It's fun to wander around the great old towns in both Aberdeen and Cannes.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Cannes?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Cannes is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cannes is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. 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.

Is Aberdeen or Cannes Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Aberdeen is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit 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.

Cannes is a family-friendly city. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.


Is Aberdeen or Cannes Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Cannes is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Cannes makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

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 Cannes Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Cannes

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

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

Cannes is not popular with students.

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

Aberdeen
Cannes

Both Aberdeen and Cannes 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.

Cannes has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.


Is Aberdeen or Cannes a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Cannes

Aberdeen and Cannes both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Cannes is a very walkable city. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Cannes?

It's fun to spend time in either Aberdeen or Cannes. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cannes due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cannes.

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

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


  • How many days in Aberdeen or Cannes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aberdeen 2-3 
    Cannes 2-4

One day in Aberdeen or Cannes?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful resort city of Cannes offers shopping and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Cannes?

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cannes is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this resort city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cannes, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Aberdeen or Cannes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Cannes 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.

A week in Aberdeen or Cannes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the architectural destination of Aberdeen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Cannes is a great place to explore. 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 resort city 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 Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.


Which place is cheaper, Cannes 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 Cannes is £117. 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 Cannes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Cannes £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Cannes £128
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Cannes

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Cannes? 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 Cannes


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 Cannes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Cannes £14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • 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
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cannes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cannes:

  • Copenhagen: One Way Transfer to & from International Airport: $71
  • Round-Trip Boat Transfer to Saint Tropez: $78
  • Private Transfer from Cannes Port to Nice Cote Airport (NCE): $82
  • Cannes Hotels to Nice Intl Airport NCE Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Private Transfer from Cannes Cruise Port to Monaco City Hotels: $91
  • Mandelieu to St Tropez Round Trip Ferry Transfer: $95
  • Private Direct Transfer From Cannes to Nice: $101
  • Departure Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $103
  • Private Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Luxury Van: $116
  • Private One-way Transfer From Cannes to Nice, 2h Stop in Antibes: $124
  • Transfer Nice Airport French Riviera: $125
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Nice Airport: $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Cannes?

Prices for flights to both Cannes 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
    Cannes £39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aberdeen £19
    Cannes £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

Tours and Activities in Cannes

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

  • Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.84
  • Explore Guided walking Tour with a local guide: $37
  • Cannes Discovery: walking Tour Led by a Local Expert: $38
  • Scenic Coves RIB Boat Tour: $48
  • Boat and Snorkeling Tour: $48
  • Cannes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Guided Tour in Cannes by a Screenwriter: History, Glamour & Cinema: $55
  • 1 or 2-Hour Gyropod Tour: $58
  • Exclusive 2 hours City Tour in Cannes in a Vintage Bus: $64
  • City Tour in Cannes aboard our Classic French Bus!: $65
  • Half Day Tour in Cannes, Antibes and St Paul de Vence: $65
  • Cannes 2.5-Hour E-bike Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Cannes £15

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 Cannes

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

  • St Paul de Vence, Antibes & Wine Tasting from Cannes: $130
  • Grasse, Valbonne & Gourdon: Day Tour with Wine Tasting: $139
  • French Riviera: Provencal Wine Tours: $759
  • Wine Tasting, Cannes, Coco Chanel, Perfume Factory & Grasse: $1,273


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


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Cannes?

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

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 Cannes in the Summer?

Both Cannes and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cannes for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 14°C (58°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Cannes. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Cannes 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Cannes in the Autumn?

Both Cannes and Aberdeen during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Cannes in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Aberdeen is much colder than Cannes in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Cannes fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Cannes gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Aberdeen usually gets less rain in October than Cannes. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Cannes 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Cannes in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Cannes. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cannes for 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 Cannes. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aberdeen in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Cannes averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In January, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cannes. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Cannes 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Cannes in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Cannes. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cannes because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Aberdeen usually gets less rain in April than Cannes. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Cannes and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Cannes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)