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

Should you visit Aix-en-Provence or San Remo?

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 San Remo, 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.

San Remo

San Remo is a scenic, authentic, and historic coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence and San Remo: Pros and Cons

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


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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in San Remo than Aix-en-Provence. While Aix-en-Provence is larger than San Remo, San Remo has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Remo is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Aix-en-Provence is famous for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. San Remo is famous for its olives, lemons, and flower market. It is also well known for The Flower Market.

How is Aix-en-Provence different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

Aix-en-Provence is terrific for its restaurants. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Remo makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is Aix-en-Provence or San Remo Better for Nightlife?

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

San Remo is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

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 San Remo Better for Beaches?

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Remo. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.


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

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

San Remo is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to San Remo to see the historical old town. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Aix-en-Provence or San Remo?

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

Aix-en-Provence is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

San Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Aix-en-Provence or San Remo Better for Families?

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

San Remo is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

San Remo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

Aix-en-Provence and San Remo are both very good 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.

San Remo is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

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

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is Aix-en-Provence or San Remo Better for Students?

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not popular with students.


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

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

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

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 San Remo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses around town.

Is Aix-en-Provence or San Remo a more walkable city?

Aix-en-Provence
San Remo

Aix-en-Provence and San Remo both are very good when exploring on foot.

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.

San Remo is very walkable. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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

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

How long in Aix-en-Provence or San Remo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aix-en-Provence or San Remo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Aix-en-Provence than San Remo 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 San Remo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than San Remo 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 San Remo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4 
    San Remo 1-2

One day in Aix-en-Provence or San Remo?

The beautiful town of Aix-en-Provence offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The authentic destination of San Remo offers food and shopping. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Remo?

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aix-en-Provence, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The coastal city of San Remo offers shopping and nightlife. 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 San Remo?

Aix-en-Provence is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

San Remo is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal 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 San Remo?

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting San Remo. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, San Remo 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 San Remo is €152. 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 San Remo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aix-en-Provence 81
    San Remo 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aix-en-Provence 162
    San Remo 160
Compare Hotels in Aix-en-Provence and San Remo

Looking for a hotel in Aix-en-Provence or San Remo? 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 San Remo


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 San Remo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aix-en-Provence 33
    San Remo 46

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 San Remo?

Prices for flights to both San Remo 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
    San Remo 44
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
    San Remo 23

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aix-en-Provence 14
    San Remo 14

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 San Remo, we can see that San Remo 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 San Remo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aix-en-Provence or San Remo?

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Aix-en-Provence and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aix-en-Provence as well as San Remo. Many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to San Remo for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as San Remo in the summer. The daily temperature in Aix-en-Provence averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and San Remo fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Remo. 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 San Remo. Aix-en-Provence gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun.

Aix-en-Provence usually gets less rain in July than San Remo. Aix-en-Provence gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F) 
    San Remo 23°C (73°F)

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

Both San Remo and Aix-en-Provence are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to San Remo because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as San Remo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aix-en-Provence in October average around 16°C (61°F), and San Remo averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. Aix-en-Provence usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during autumn. Aix-en-Provence gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Remo. In October, Aix-en-Provence usually receives less rain than San Remo. Aix-en-Provence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F) 
    San Remo 17°C (63°F)

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

Both San Remo and Aix-en-Provence during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to San Remo this time of year.

In January, Aix-en-Provence is generally cooler than San Remo. Daily temperatures in Aix-en-Provence average around 7°C (44°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Aix-en-Provence often gets more sunshine than San Remo. Aix-en-Provence gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun.

Aix-en-Provence usually gets less rain in January than San Remo. Aix-en-Provence gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F) 
    San Remo 9°C (48°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aix-en-Provence and San Remo. The natural beauty are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as San Remo in the spring. The daily temperature in Aix-en-Provence averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and San Remo fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aix-en-Provence usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during spring. Aix-en-Provence gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aix-en-Provence usually receives less rain than San Remo. Aix-en-Provence gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for San Remo and Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence San Remo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)


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