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

Should you visit Aix-en-Provence or Novalja?

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 Novalja, 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 laid-back, relaxing, and historic 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.

Novalja

Novalja is a backpacker-filled, wild, and energetic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches.

Aix-en-Provence and Novalja: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aix-en-Provence. Although Aix-en-Provence and Novalja are both popular with visitors, Aix-en-Provence has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its museums, food, and shopping, while Novalja is known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Novalja is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is known for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. It is also home to .

How is Aix-en-Provence different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Aix-en-Provence offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Novalja. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.

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

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Aix-en-Provence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

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

Novalja is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Novalja is a must-see party destination. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Novalja is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Novalja as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Aix-en-Provence is not a resort destination.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Novalja is well known for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Novalja. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

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

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options 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.

Shopping in Novalja can be found for those interested. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.

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

Most people don't think of either Aix-en-Provence or Novalja 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, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.

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

Aix-en-Provence is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Novalja is a good town for couples to visit. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.

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

Novalja is terrific for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Novalja is a very popular town to visit for backpackers. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

Aix-en-Provence is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

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

Aix-en-Provence is a great destination for students. However, Novalja is not popular with students.

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

Novalja is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Novalja offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

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

Aix-en-Provence is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Novalja is a somewhat walkable town. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.

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

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

How long in Aix-en-Provence or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Aix-en-Provence or Novalja. In our opinion, Aix-en-Provence has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Novalja. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Novalja. 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 Novalja than Aix-en-Provence 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 Novalja.

One day in Aix-en-Provence or Novalja?

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The energetic destination of Novalja offers nightlife. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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 Novalja?

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aix-en-Provence has to offer.

The town of Novalja offers nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Novalja?

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Novalja is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This town 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 Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Aix-en-Provence. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Novalja. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

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

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 Novalja Expensive?.

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

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Aix-en-Provence and Novalja, 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.