A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albufeira vs. Avignon for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Albufeira or Avignon?

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Avignon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Albufeira

Albufeira is a activity-filled, high energy, and party hard resort town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Avignon

Avignon is a charming, scenic, and picturesque town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Albufeira and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Avignon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Albufeira. Although Albufeira and Avignon are both popular with visitors, Albufeira has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Albufeira is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Avignon is known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Albufeira is more touristy than Avignon and is popular for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. It is also home to Praia da Falesia. Avignon is popular for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

How is Albufeira different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Avignon and Albufeira. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Albufeira or Avignon?

Avignon is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Avignon are among the most recognizable in the world. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Albufeira or Avignon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avignon is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Avignon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

Albufeira has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, the city also has the widest selection of restaurants. There are traditional options that serve up classic dishes like grilled sardines, as well as international restaurants with traveler favorites. As expected, you'll find a lot of seafood, but you'll also find inland influences from local farms in the area.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Albufeira is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Resorts?

Albufeira is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Avignon is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Albufeira for its luxury resorts. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, you'll find a wide selection of hotels to choose from. Party-goers will want to stay near the Strip while families will prefer the old town or resorts in Olhos de Agua.

Avignon is not a resort destination.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Avignon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Albufeira. There are countless vendors who will take you by boat to explore the underwater world, either by snorkeling or scuba diving. The marine life is impressive and the water is generally clear.

Avignon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is renowned for the beach. However, Avignon is not a beach destination.

Albufeira offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With their golden sands and blue waters, the beaches are world class. The area also has a diversity of beaches that are perfect for all types of vacationers. For water sports, head to Praia dos Alemaes but for relaxation and catching some rays check out Praia da Falesia. You'll find some interesting rock formations at Praia dos Olhos de Agua. One of the most convenient beaches to town is Praia dos Pescadores. For nightlife you'll want to head to Praia da Oura.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

Avignon is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Avignon is revered around the world. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Hiking?

Albufeira is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Avignon is not a hiking destination.

Albufeira offers some nice hiking trails. There are countless coastal walks that are perfect for all skill levels. Many offers stunning views along the rocky coast and pass through natural settings. Popular trails in the area include Praia Grande Interpretation Trail and Paderne Castle Trail.

Avignon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Avignon?

Avignon is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Avignon offers some nice shopping areas. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Albufeira has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most of the shops are geared toward souvenirs or beach items, particularly near the beach and marina. If you look hard you might find some nice ceramics or items made of cork.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Albufeira or Avignon.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Albufeira. Despite it's reputation as a party-hard city, there are actually a lot of family-friendly activities in the area. Because it's the largest resort town in the Algarve, it also has the most activities to choose from, including theme parks, water parks, dolphin watching, ropes courses, go karting, and more. The best area's for families are in the old town or the most of the family-friendly resorts outside of town. Families should avoid staying near "the Strip."

Avignon offers lots of family activities. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Couples?

Albufeira is renowned for couples. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Albufeira is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For an active honeymoon or couple's retreat, this resort town has it all. Beautiful beaches, adventure-filled activities, a wild nightlife scene, and excellent resorts and restaurants all make for a memorable couple's getaway.

Couples visit Avignon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Albufeira, as it is a very popular resort town for budget travelers. If you're looking for a party, then you found it. The area is a top pick for European holidays, so you'll find plenty of energy and activities around town. There are also golden beaches and a decent selection of hostels to choose from.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Albufeira or Avignon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Avignon is a popular place for its public transit. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Avignon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albufeira. There are regional buses and even trains, but do take note that many of the train and bus stations are a good distance outside of town.

Is Albufeira or Avignon a more walkable city?

Avignon is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Avignon on foot is easy. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

Albufeira is generally not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to hire a car, but if your hotel is near the beach and you're ok with walking to restaurants, then you may be able to get away without one. If you hope to travel into the countryside at all then a car is necessary.

For even more information, also check out Is Albufeira Worth Visiting? and Is Avignon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Albufeira or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Albufeira than Avignon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 1-2 days is enough time in Avignon.

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

Couples should spend more time in Albufeira than Avignon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Albufeira that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albufeira than Avignon 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 Albufeira.

One day in Albufeira or Avignon?

In Albufeira, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Even though Avignon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Avignon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Albufeira or Avignon?

In Albufeira, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Avignon is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Avignon?

Albufeira is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Albufeira has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Avignon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Albufeira or Avignon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albufeira. In Albufeira, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Avignon is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Albufeira Expensive? and Is Avignon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Avignon?

Avignon has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Avignon, 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 Albufeira or Avignon?

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 Albufeira or Avignon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Avignon. Most visitors come to Albufeira for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Avignon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Albufeira is around the same temperature as Avignon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Albufeira in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Avignon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in July than Avignon. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Avignon in the Autumn?

Both Avignon and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

In October, Albufeira is generally a little warmer than Avignon. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 19°C (67°F), and Avignon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Avignon. In October, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Avignon. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Albufeira or Avignon in the Winter?

Both Avignon and Albufeira during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Albufeira this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Avignon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Albufeira is much warmer than Avignon in the winter. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Avignon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Albufeira usually gets more rain in January than Avignon. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Avignon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Avignon. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Avignon in the spring for the small town charm.

In the spring, Albufeira is a little warmer than Avignon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Albufeira in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Avignon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In April, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Avignon. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Albufeira