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

Should you visit Aegina or La Rochelle?

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

Should I visit Aegina or La Rochelle? 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 active, relaxing, and vibrant island. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a laid-back, quaint, and charming coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Aegina and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aegina or La Rochelle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Rochelle. Although Aegina and La Rochelle are both popular with visitors, La Rochelle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Rochelle is more popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm, while Aegina is known for its nightlife. Aegina is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens. La Rochelle is popular for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. It is also home to The Old Port.

How is Aegina different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Aegina or La Rochelle.

Aegina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to La Rochelle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, La Rochelle is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Aegina is great for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Aegina for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is Aegina or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Aegina and La Rochelle are good choices.

Aegina is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Is Aegina or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

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

La Rochelle offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Is Aegina or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

La Rochelle is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Aegina is not a hiking destination.

La Rochelle is a good destination for hiking. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Aegina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or La Rochelle?

Shopping is a popular activity in both La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Is Aegina or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aegina or La Rochelle.

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.

La Rochelle offers lots of family activities. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Aegina or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for couples. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

La Rochelle makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aegina and La Rochelle are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aegina. 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.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is Aegina or La Rochelle Better for Students?

La Rochelle is a popular place for students. However, Aegina is not popular with students.

La Rochelle is popular with students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Aegina is not popular with students.

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

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

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 La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Is Aegina or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

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

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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 La Rochelle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Aegina or La Rochelle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Rochelle due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Rochelle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Rochelle than Aegina 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 La Rochelle.

One day in Aegina or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active island of Aegina. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

A weekend in Aegina or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Aegina. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

La Rochelle is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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 La Rochelle?

The active island of Aegina offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. Don't miss the food, 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aegina. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

La Rochelle is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This coastal 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aegina and La Rochelle, we can see that La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Aegina or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 Aegina or La Rochelle in the Summer?

Both La Rochelle and Aegina during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Aegina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

In July, Aegina is generally a little warmer than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 27°C (81°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In La Rochelle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Aegina. In the summer, Aegina often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in July than La Rochelle. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aegina or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and La Rochelle. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

Aegina is a little warmer than La Rochelle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Aegina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aegina usually receives less rain than La Rochelle. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Aegina or La Rochelle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Aegina as well as La Rochelle. Many travelers come to Aegina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to La Rochelle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Aegina is much warmer than La Rochelle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aegina in January average around 10°C (51°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Aegina often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in January than La Rochelle. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aegina or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aegina in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

In April, Aegina is generally a little warmer than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 16°C (60°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during spring. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aegina usually receives less rain than La Rochelle. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Aegina