A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alicante vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Alicante or Ventimiglia?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Alicante and Ventimiglia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Alicante

Alicante is a colorful, authentic, and vibrant city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a scenic, traditional, and understated seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Alicante and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Alicante or Ventimiglia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Alicante. Although Alicante and Ventimiglia are both popular with visitors, Alicante has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Alicante is more popular for its museums and nightlife, while Ventimiglia is known for its historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alicante is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants. It is also home to the Castillo de Santa Bárbara. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Alicante different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alicante or Ventimiglia?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Alicante is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

Alicante offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Alicante or Ventimiglia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Alicante and Ventimiglia.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Alicante. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Ventimiglia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Alicante or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Alicante is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

Alicante has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Alicante or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Alicante and Ventimiglia are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Alicante to enjoy the beach. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Ventimiglia has a beach worth visiting. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.


Is Alicante or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is well known for its old town. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Alicante has an old town worth visiting. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Alicante or Ventimiglia?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Ventimiglia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Alicante has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

Is Alicante or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Alicante is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Alicante is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.


Is Alicante or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Both Alicante and Ventimiglia are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Alicante frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.

Ventimiglia is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Alicante or Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Alicante is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alicante. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Alicante or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Alicante is a popular place for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Alicante is popular with students. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.


Is Alicante or Ventimiglia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Alicante and Ventimiglia.

You'll find some public transit in Alicante, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.

While Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Alicante or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Alicante
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable seaside town. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

Alicante is a somewhat walkable city. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Alicante Worth Visiting? and Is Ventimiglia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Alicante?

How long in Alicante or Ventimiglia?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alicante than Ventimiglia 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 Alicante.


  • How many days in Alicante or Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alicante 2-4 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Alicante or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful city of Alicante. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Alicante or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Alicante. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Ventimiglia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this seaside town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ventimiglia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Alicante or Ventimiglia?

The cultural city of Alicante offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Ventimiglia 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.

A week in Alicante or Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alicante. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This seaside town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia or Alicante?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alicante is €127, while the average daily cost in Ventimiglia is €121. 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 Alicante and Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alicante 42
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alicante 84
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Alicante and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Alicante or Ventimiglia? 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 Alicante


Hotels in Ventimiglia


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: Alicante Hotel Prices and Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alicante -
    Ventimiglia 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alicante

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alicante:

  • Albir: Alicante Airport (ALC) Private Transfer: $90
  • Alicante Airport (El Altet) (ALC) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Alicante Hotels): $78
  • Alicante Airport(ALC) to Alicante City: Arrival Private Transfer: $33
  • Alicante to Alicante Airport (ALC)- Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Airport Transfer Alicante - Valencia: $201
  • Bullring and Castle Guided Tour with Taxi Transfer: $74
  • Private transfer Alicante Airport - Altea Hills: $94
  • Calpe: Alicante Airport (ALC) Private Transfer: $111
  • Private Roundtrip Transfer from Alicante Airport ALC to Alicante: $65
  • Private Transfer - Alicante Airport (ALC) to Alicante Cruise Port: $39
  • Private Transfer - Alicante Cruise Port to Alicante Airport (ALC): $39
  • Private Transfer from Alicante (ALC) Airport to Hacienda Riquelme Golf Resort: $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Alicante or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia and Alicante 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
    Alicante 72
    Ventimiglia 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alicante

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

  • Secret Flavors Food Tour: $31
  • Paella and Sangria Cooking Workshop: $60
  • Paella and Sangría Cooking Workshop: $64
  • Central Market Guided Food Tour with Tapas Bars: $70
  • Alicante Food Tour: $71
  • Fuse Spanish With Italian For Dinner In Mutxamel: $89
  • Alicante PRIVATE Food Tour With Locals: 10 Food & Drink Tastings Included: $136
  • Cooking Class with Private Chef and Local Wine: $176
  • Alicante cooking class with a private chef: $180

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

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

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alicante 53
    Ventimiglia 27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Alicante

Here are a few typical costs in Alicante for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Food and Tapas Tour (for 2)
    54
  • Catamaran Cruise (for 2)
    67
  • Wine Tasting Tour (for 2)
    120
  • Walking Tour (for 2)
    60

Tours and Activities in Alicante

Here are a few actual costs in Alicante for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Tour of Alicante Bullring & Bullfighting Museum with Audioguide: $9.81
  • Tour de historias y leyendas del Castillo de Santa Bárbara: $13
  • Alicante Discovery Tour from Benidorm: $28
  • Seven Secrets of Alicante Discovery Tour: $31
  • Alicante Historic Small Group Tour with Tapas Tasting: $32
  • Alicante Food and Tapas Tour with a Local Guide : $32
  • City. Discover Alicante by E-Bike & walking tour: $32
  • Calas and Beaches E-Bike Tour with Snorkeling: $32
  • City and Beach Bike Tour: $32
  • Alicante City & Beach Bike Tour : $33
  • 2-Hour Late Afternoon Catamaran Cruise: $34
  • Highlights Bike Tour: $34

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alicante -
    Ventimiglia 7.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Alicante

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

  • Santa Bárbara Castle Wine Tasting with Cold Cuts: $28
  • Vineyards of Wine Tasting Tour: $73
  • Alicante Wine Tour with Wine Tasting : $74
  • Private Tour of Vinalopó Castles and Wine Tasting: $82
  • Food Walking Tour with Wine Tasting and Tapas: $144
  • Alicante Wine Tasting and Tapas for Foodies: $147
  • Total Alicante walking tour, tapas and wine tasting: $267


When comparing the travel costs between Alicante and Ventimiglia, we can see that Alicante 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 Alicante Expensive? and Is Ventimiglia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Alicante or Ventimiglia?

Alicante has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Alicante and Ventimiglia, 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 Alicante or Ventimiglia?

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 Alicante or Ventimiglia in the Summer?

Both Ventimiglia and Alicante are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Alicante for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Alicante is around the same temperature as Ventimiglia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Alicante in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Ventimiglia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alicante. Alicante usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during summer. Alicante gets 341 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alicante usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Alicante gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alicante 25°C (77°F) 
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Alicante or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

Both Ventimiglia and Alicante during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Alicante because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year.

In October, Alicante is generally a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Daily temperatures in Alicante average around 20°C (68°F), and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Alicante. In the autumn, Alicante often gets more sunshine than Ventimiglia. Alicante gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Alicante usually gets less rain in October than Ventimiglia. Alicante gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alicante 20°C (68°F) 
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Alicante or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alicante and Ventimiglia. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alicante this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Alicante is a little warmer than Ventimiglia in the winter. The daily temperature in Alicante averages around 11°C (52°F) in January, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Alicante usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during winter. Alicante gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alicante usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Alicante gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alicante 11°C (52°F) 
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Alicante or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alicante as well as Ventimiglia. Many travelers come to Alicante for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Alicante is a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Alicante in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alicante this time of the year. In the spring, Alicante often gets more sunshine than Ventimiglia. Alicante gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Alicante usually gets less rain in April than Ventimiglia. Alicante gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alicante 16°C (60°F) 
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Alicante

Alicante Ventimiglia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (52°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 25 mm (1 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)


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