A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aix-en-Provence vs. Cairngorms National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park, 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.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant, laid-back, and relaxing town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a beautiful, serene, and picturesque national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Aix-en-Provence and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aix-en-Provence. Although Aix-en-Provence and Cairngorms National Park are popular destinations, Aix-en-Provence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Cairngorms National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Aix-en-Provence is famous for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. It is also well known for .

How is Aix-en-Provence different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park and Aix-en-Provence. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Aix-en-Provence. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Aix-en-Provence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Aix-en-Provence. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Aix-en-Provence specifically to go shopping. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence and Cairngorms National Park are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Aix-en-Provence frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Cairngorms National Park is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.


Is Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence and Cairngorms National Park are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Cairngorms National Park is a good town to visit for backpackers. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Aix-en-Provence is very popular with students. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Aix-en-Provence has some public transit options. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.


Is Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Aix-en-Provence
Cairngorms National Park

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable destination. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Aix-en-Provence?

How long in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Aix-en-Provence because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Aix-en-Provence, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Cairngorms National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Aix-en-Provence that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Cairngorms National Park 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 Aix-en-Provence.


  • How many days in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the relaxing town of Aix-en-Provence, there's plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The serene destination of Cairngorms National Park offers food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

With museums and food around the relaxing destination of Aix-en-Provence, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The national park of Cairngorms National Park offers food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant town of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This national park offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. One week 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 length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, The Best Coach Bus Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Aix-en-Provence?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aix-en-Provence is €138, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Aix-en-Provence and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aix-en-Provence 81
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aix-en-Provence 162
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Aix-en-Provence and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Aix-en-Provence


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


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: Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aix-en-Provence 33
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Aix-en-Provence 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
    Aix-en-Provence 33
    Cairngorms National Park 35
Typical Food Prices in Aix-en-Provence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Aix-en-Provence:


  • Dinner for 2
    47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aix-en-Provence

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Aix-en-Provence.

  • NO DIET CLUB - Best food tour in Aix en Provence (En / Fr): $62
  • Food Tour: $102
  • Aix-en-Provence Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aix-en-Provence 22
    Cairngorms National Park 31

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese - From Aix: $82
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • 2H: Wine-Tour in Provence: $274
  • 4-Hour Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence: $87
  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese: $80
  • Aix-en-Provence Walking Food and Culture Tour - 3 hour private tour: $131
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Arles & Camargue National Park Private Tour: $1,016
  • Arles, Baux, & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Tour: $1,016
  • Avignon Tour & Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting: $1,048
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aix-en-Provence 14
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83

Sample the Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Half day Wine Tour in Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire from Aix en Provence: $93
  • Half Day Wine Tour in Coteaux d'Aix: $96
  • Half day Wine Tour in Côteaux Aix from Aix en Provence: $98
  • Half day Wine Tour in Bandol & Cassis from Aix en Provence: $104
  • From Wine Tour in Cezanne Countryside: $106
  • Provence small group half-day wine tour from Aix: $107
  • Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence: $108
  • Aix en Provence: Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting: $143
  • Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence: $151
  • Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix: $164
  • From Provence Region Tour with Wine Tasting: $166


When comparing the travel costs between Aix-en-Provence and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park 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 Aix-en-Provence Expensive? and Is Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aix-en-Provence as well as Cairngorms National Park. Most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Aix-en-Provence is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Aix-en-Provence averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In the summer, Aix-en-Provence often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Aix-en-Provence gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Aix-en-Provence usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Aix-en-Provence gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Aix-en-Provence are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

In the autumn, Aix-en-Provence is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aix-en-Provence in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. Aix-en-Provence usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Aix-en-Provence gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aix-en-Provence usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Aix-en-Provence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Aix-en-Provence during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cairngorms National Park. In January, Aix-en-Provence is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Aix-en-Provence average around 7°C (44°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Aix-en-Provence often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Aix-en-Provence gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Aix-en-Provence usually gets less rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Aix-en-Provence gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aix-en-Provence and Cairngorms National Park. Many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

Aix-en-Provence is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Aix-en-Provence averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aix-en-Provence usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Aix-en-Provence gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aix-en-Provence usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Aix-en-Provence gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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