A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aegina vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Aegina or Arles?

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

Should I visit Aegina 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.

Aegina

Aegina is a fun, active, and relaxing island. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aegina and Arles: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Aegina or Arles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arles. Although Aegina and Arles are popular destinations, Arles has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arles is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Aegina attracts visitors for its nightlife, beaches, and small town charm. Aegina is more touristy than Arles and is known for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also well known for L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Aegina different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Aegina
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Arles on the map. 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 Aegina specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.


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

Aegina
Arles

Arles is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

Is Aegina or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Aegina
Arles

Aegina is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Aegina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Aegina or Arles Better for Beaches?

Aegina
Arles

Aegina is very good for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Aegina to enjoy the beach. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Arles is not a beach destination.


Is Aegina or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Aegina
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Arles offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Arles?

Aegina
Arles

Shopping is a popular activity in both Arles and Aegina.

Many visitors go to Aegina to go shopping. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Aegina or Arles Better for Families?

Aegina
Arles

Aegina is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aegina. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

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 Aegina or Arles Better for Couples?

Aegina
Arles

Arles is a great destination for couples. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Aegina is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Aegina or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aegina
Arles

Aegina is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

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

Aegina
Arles

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aegina and Arles.

You'll find some public transit in Aegina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.


Is Aegina or Arles a more walkable city?

Aegina
Arles

Arles is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Aegina is somewhat walkable. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aegina or Arles to fill your time. In our opinion, Arles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Arles than Aegina. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Arles than Aegina. 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 Aegina than Arles 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 Aegina.


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

One day in Aegina or Arles?

In Aegina, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing destination offers. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Aegina or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aegina. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Aegina or Arles?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

A week in Aegina or Arles?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Aegina. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Arles. This town 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Aegina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aegina is €92, while the average daily cost in Arles is €142. 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 Aegina and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aegina 43
    Arles 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aegina 86
    Arles 142
Compare Hotels in Aegina and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Aegina 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 Aegina


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: Aegina Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aegina 24
    Arles 23

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 Aegina or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Aegina 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
    Aegina 34
    Arles 52

Typical Food Prices in Arles

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


  • Cooked Clams
    4.50
  • Ice Cream
    1.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aegina 13
    Arles 31

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
    5.50

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
    Aegina 8.57
    Arles 24

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

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


Which is Bigger, Aegina or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina 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 Aegina 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 Aegina or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences.

Aegina is a little warmer than Arles in the summer. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during summer. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aegina usually receives less rain than Arles. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aegina 27°C (81°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Aegina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aegina for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to Arles in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Aegina is a little warmer than Arles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aegina in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Arles averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aegina. In the autumn, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Arles. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Aegina usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aegina 19°C (67°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Arles. Many visitors come to Aegina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Aegina is generally much warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 10°C (51°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during winter. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aegina usually receives less rain than Arles. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aegina 10°C (51°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Arles. Most visitors come to Aegina for the beaches and the small town charm during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Arles because of the natural beauty.

Aegina is a little warmer than Arles in the spring. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the spring, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aegina 16°C (60°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Aegina

Aegina Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)