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

Should you visit Aix-en-Provence or Urbino?

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 Urbino, 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 relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Urbino

Urbino is a laid back, historic, and undiscovered town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence and Urbino: Pros and Cons

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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Urbino. Although Aix-en-Provence and Urbino are popular destinations, Urbino has more sights and attractions for tourists. Urbino is very popular for its nightlife and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence attracts visitors for its 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. Urbino is famous for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere. It is also well known for Palazzo Ducale di Urbino.

How is Aix-en-Provence different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Aix-en-Provence or Urbino.

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.

Urbino is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Aix-en-Provence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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, Urbino makes for a great culinary experience. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

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

Urbino has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

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 Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Urbino is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Urbino offers a nice historic old town area. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

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


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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Urbino is a great destination for shopping. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Most people don't think of either Aix-en-Provence or Urbino 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, Urbino is not always the best place to visit. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Aix-en-Provence and Urbino are both high quality 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.

Urbino is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.


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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Aix-en-Provence is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Aix-en-Provence and Urbino are high quality places to visit for students.

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

Students come from all over to stay in Urbino. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Aix-en-Provence is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.


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

Aix-en-Provence
Urbino

Aix-en-Provence is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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.

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Aix-en-Provence or Urbino?

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

Families should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Urbino. 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 Urbino. 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 Urbino 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 Urbino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4 
    Urbino 1-2

One day in Aix-en-Provence or Urbino?

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 undiscovered destination of Urbino offers nightlife and food. 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 Urbino?

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 town of Urbino offers food and shopping. 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 Urbino?

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.

Urbino is a great place to explore. 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 Urbino?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting Urbino. 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 in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Urbino 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 Urbino is €118. 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 Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aix-en-Provence 81
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aix-en-Provence 162
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Aix-en-Provence and Urbino

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


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 Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aix-en-Provence 33
    Urbino 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

Also for Urbino, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

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

Prices for flights to both Urbino 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
    Urbino 39
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
    Urbino 15

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 Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour with certified guide: $139
  • Private Walking Tour with Ducal Palace Ticket: $150
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aix-en-Provence 14
    Urbino 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aix-en-Provence and Urbino, we can see that Aix-en-Provence is more expensive. And not only is Urbino much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Urbino would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Urbino 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 Urbino.

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 Urbino Expensive?.


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

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Urbino. When comparing the sizes of Aix-en-Provence and Urbino, 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 Urbino?

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 Urbino in the Summer?

Both Urbino and Aix-en-Provence during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Urbino for the family-friendly experiences.

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

Aix-en-Provence usually gets less rain in July than Urbino. Aix-en-Provence gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Aix-en-Provence and Urbino. Many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Urbino in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as Urbino. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aix-en-Provence in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Urbino averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In October, Aix-en-Provence usually receives around the same amount of rain as Urbino. Aix-en-Provence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F) 
    Urbino 15°C (59°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Aix-en-Provence as well as Urbino. Many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Urbino for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Urbino can be very cold during winter. In January, Aix-en-Provence is generally much warmer than Urbino. Daily temperatures in Aix-en-Provence average around 7°C (44°F), and Urbino fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Aix-en-Provence usually gets more rain in January than Urbino. Aix-en-Provence gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F) 
    Urbino 3°C (37°F)

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

Both Urbino and Aix-en-Provence are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Urbino because of the natural beauty.

Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as Urbino in the spring. The daily temperature in Aix-en-Provence averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Urbino fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In April, Aix-en-Provence usually receives less rain than Urbino. Aix-en-Provence gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F) 
    Urbino 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Urbino and Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence Urbino
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)


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