A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Almeria vs. Arles for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Almeria or Arles?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Almeria and Arles. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Almeria

Almeria is a natural, breathtaking, and pristine region. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Almeria and Arles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Almeria or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Almeria than Arles. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Almeria is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Arles attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Almeria is more touristy than Arles and is known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. It is also well known for The Alcazaba. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Almeria different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Almeria or Arles?

Almeria
Arles

Arles is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Arles on the map. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Almeria or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Almeria
Arles

Almeria is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Almeria has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Almeria or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Arles

It's hard to distinguish whether Almeria or Arles has a better nightlife scene.

Almeria has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Almeria or Arles Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Arles

Almeria is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arles is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Almeria is a perfect choice. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Arles is not a resort destination.


Is Almeria or Arles Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Arles

Almeria is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Almeria is a very popular vacation destination. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Almeria or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Arles

Arles is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

The rich history of Arles can be explored in its historical center. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Is Almeria or Arles Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Arles

Almeria is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Arles is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Arles?

Almeria
Arles

Arles is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Arles to go shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Arles Better for Families?

Almeria
Arles

Almeria is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Almeria is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Almeria or Arles Better for Couples?

Almeria
Arles

Almeria and Arles both high quality destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Almeria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Arles is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.


Is Almeria or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria
Arles

Almeria is well known for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Almeria is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Almeria or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Almeria
Arles

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Almeria and Arles.

You'll find some public transit in Almeria, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Almeria or Arles a more walkable city?

Almeria
Arles

Arles is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

Arles is a very walkable destination. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Almeria Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Arles?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria than Arles 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 Almeria.


  • How many days in Almeria or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Almeria or Arles?

In Almeria, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this pristine destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Almeria or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Almeria. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Arles, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

Five days in Almeria or Arles?

Almeria is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Almeria. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Arles is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Almeria or Arles?

You'll find food and nightlife around the natural destination of Almeria. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Almeria?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Almeria is €99, while the average daily cost in Arles is €142. 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 Almeria and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Arles 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Arles 142
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Almeria or Arles? 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 Almeria


Hotels in Arles


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: Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Arles 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $66
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $66
  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42
  • Tabernas: transfer + ticket Fort Bravo or Minihollywood: $62
  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $125

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Almeria or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Almeria 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
    Almeria 40
    Arles 52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Almeria

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

  • Spanish Paella Private Online Cooking Class: $40

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    4.50
  • Ice Cream
    1.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Arles 31

Tours and Activities in Almeria

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

  • Convent of the Puras Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • Almería: Cathedral Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Almería: Cathedral and Convent of the Puras Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Spanish Civil War Shelters Ticket and Official Tour: $11
  • Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour: $11
  • Shelters of Spanish Civil War | Spanish Tour: $14
  • History and Hidden Corners Essential Walking Tour: $14
  • Andalusia: Almeria Cathedral Entry with Guided Tour: $16
  • Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour: $16
  • Alcazaba Guided Tour: $16
  • Fort Bravo Entrance Ticket: $21
  • From Tabernas Desert 4WD Tour: $37

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

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


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    5.50

Tours and Activities in Arles

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

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Almeria 4.29
    Arles 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Almeria:

  • Almería Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting: $24
  • Almería Wine tour and tasting in English in Bio Winery: $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


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

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


Which is Bigger, Almeria or Arles?

Almeria has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Almeria and Arles, 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 Almeria or Arles?

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 Almeria or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Almeria for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Almeria is around the same temperature as Arles in the summer. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. Almeria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during summer. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Almeria usually receives less rain than Arles. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Almeria during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Almeria in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Almeria is a little warmer than Arles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Almeria in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Arles averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Almeria. In the autumn, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Arles. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Almeria usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Arles. Most visitors come to Almeria for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Arles because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Almeria is generally much warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 13°C (55°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Arles during winter. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Almeria usually receives less rain than Arles. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Arles. The spring months attract visitors to Almeria because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Almeria is a little warmer than Arles in the spring. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the spring, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Arles. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Almeria gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Almeria

Almeria Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)