A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aix-en-Provence vs. Girona for Food, Attractions, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

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 Girona, 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 historic, vibrant, and laid-back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Girona

Girona is a colorful, medieval, and ancient city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Aix-en-Provence and Girona: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Girona than Aix-en-Provence. While Aix-en-Provence is larger than Girona, Girona has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Girona is more popular for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its food and shopping. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. Girona is popular for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine. It is also home to The Girona Cathedral.

How is Aix-en-Provence different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Girona is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Girona can be an interesting and educational experience. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.


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

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Aix-en-Provence is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Aix-en-Provence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Girona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Girona Better for Nightlife?

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Aix-en-Provence and Girona.

Aix-en-Provence is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Girona doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Girona is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Girona has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Aix-en-Provence is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Aix-en-Provence make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Girona Better for Families?

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Most people don't think of either Aix-en-Provence or Girona as a family destination.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

For families, Girona is not always the best place to visit. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Girona Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Aix-en-Provence and Girona are both great 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.

Girona is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.


Is Aix-en-Provence or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Aix-en-Provence and Girona are good 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.

Girona is a good town to visit for backpackers. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Girona Better for Students?

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Aix-en-Provence is a well-known place for students. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

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

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aix-en-Provence and Girona.

You'll find some public transit in Aix-en-Provence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

While Girona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.


Is Aix-en-Provence or Girona a more walkable city?

Aix-en-Provence
Girona

Girona is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Girona on foot is easy. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Girona or Aix-en-Provence?

How long in Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aix-en-Provence or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Aix-en-Provence than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Aix-en-Provence, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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

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


  • How many days in Aix-en-Provence or Girona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4 
    Girona 1-2

One day in Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The colorful destination of Girona offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

Aix-en-Provence 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.

The quaint city of Girona offers museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. 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.

Girona is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Girona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Girona 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 Girona is €140. 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 Girona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aix-en-Provence 81
    Girona 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aix-en-Provence 162
    Girona 138
Compare Hotels in Aix-en-Provence and Girona

Looking for a hotel in Aix-en-Provence or Girona? 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 Girona


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 Girona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aix-en-Provence 33
    Girona 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Girona Airport (GRO) to Costa Brava - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21
  • Palamós to Barcelona Airport (BNC) Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Palamós to Girona Airport (GRO) - Departure Private Transfer : $33
  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $262
  • Transfer from Barcelona to girona Airport: $196

Is it cheaper to fly into Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

Prices for flights to both Girona 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
    Girona 41
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Girona

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Girona.

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aix-en-Provence 22
    Girona 24

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

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

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $9.84
  • Provencal Market Walking Tour with Tastings: $37
  • Provençal Farmers market tour: $38
  • Guided Tour in Historical Old City: $60
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70
  • E-Bike tour of Sainte Victoire Mountain, Aix-en-Provence: $70
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Gourmet & Cultural Tour Aix En Provence English / Espanol: $73
  • An Aix-traordinary Walking City Tour of Aix-en-Provence: $75
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • Time flies by on this Aixquisite Walking Tour of Aix-en-Provence : $76

Tours and Activities in Girona

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

  • Girona self-guided tour app with multilingual audioguide: $4.28
  • Audio Tour Imprescindible a tu ritmo: $6.41
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Entrance ticket to the Girona Art Museum: $6.54
  • Museum of Cinema Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Fábrica-Museo de Anchoas Solés Ticket: $7.74
  • Self-guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Ticket pass to Girona Cathedral, Sant Felix and Girona Art Museum: $13
  • Catedral, Art Museum, St Felix Church Ticket & Audio: $29
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Girona History, Legends, and Food Walking Tour with food tasting: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aix-en-Provence 14
    Girona 9.69

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Girona

Also in Girona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $82
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $149


When comparing the travel costs between Aix-en-Provence and Girona, we can see that Girona 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 Girona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Aix-en-Provence and Girona, 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 Aix-en-Provence or Girona?

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 Aix-en-Provence or Girona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aix-en-Provence and Girona. Many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Girona in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aix-en-Provence is generally around the same temperature as Girona. Daily temperatures in Aix-en-Provence average around 24°C (75°F), and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Girona this time of the year. In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aix-en-Provence usually receives more sunshine than Girona during summer. Aix-en-Provence gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aix-en-Provence usually receives less rain than Girona. Aix-en-Provence gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F) 
    Girona 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Girona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aix-en-Provence as well as Girona. Many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as Girona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aix-en-Provence averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Girona fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In the autumn, Aix-en-Provence often gets more sunshine than Girona. Aix-en-Provence gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Aix-en-Provence usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Girona. Aix-en-Provence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F) 
    Girona 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Girona in the Winter?

Both Girona and Aix-en-Provence are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Girona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Aix-en-Provence is cooler than Girona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aix-en-Provence in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Girona averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Aix-en-Provence usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Girona during winter. Aix-en-Provence gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aix-en-Provence usually receives less rain than Girona. Aix-en-Provence gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F) 
    Girona 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Girona in the Spring?

Both Girona and Aix-en-Provence during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

In April, Aix-en-Provence is generally around the same temperature as Girona. Daily temperatures in Aix-en-Provence average around 13°C (56°F), and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. In the spring, Aix-en-Provence often gets more sunshine than Girona. Aix-en-Provence gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Aix-en-Provence usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Aix-en-Provence gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F) 
    Girona 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Girona and Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence Girona
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)