A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Almeria vs. Calais for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Almeria or Calais?

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

Calais

Calais is a coastal, authentic, and undiscovered city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Almeria and Calais: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Almeria or Calais?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Calais than Almeria. While Almeria is larger than Calais, Calais has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Calais is very popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Almeria attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Almeria is more touristy than Calais and is known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. Calais is famous for being a gateway for travelers to France. It is also well known for The Town Hall.

How is Almeria different from Calais?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Almeria
Calais

Calais is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calais. It's a port city with a few good museums and landmarks to see. Check out the Town Hall, Burghers of Calais, La Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode, and Musée de la Guerre de Calais, as well as the Calais Lighthouse.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Almeria
Calais

Almeria is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Almeria is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Calais. The region is known for its mackerel, andouillette sausage, and endive and ham gratin. If you're passing through, this is also a good place to stock up on wine and cheese.

Is Almeria or Calais Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Calais

It's hard to distinguish whether Almeria or Calais 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 Calais has a few options to choose from. You'll find bars and pubs around town as well as a few clubs. Places range from trendy and high end to local dive bars.

Is Almeria or Calais Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Calais

Almeria is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Calais is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Almeria is a great 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.

Calais is not a resort destination.


Is Almeria or Calais Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Calais

Almeria is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Almeria. 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.

Many people head to Calais to enjoy the beach. There are some sandy beaches near town that have nice stretches of sand and plenty of sand dunes. Many locals enjoy sunbathing at the beaches.

Is Almeria or Calais Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Calais

Almeria is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Calais does not have a historic old town.

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.

Calais does not have a historic old town.

Is Almeria or Calais Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Calais

Almeria is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Calais 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.

Calais is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Calais?

Almeria
Calais

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

Many visitors go to Calais to go shopping. Many visitors stock up on wine and cheese when they're passing through. It's common to head straight to Auchan or Carrefour to stock up on some items.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Calais Better for Families?

Almeria
Calais

Almeria is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Calais offers lots of family activities. There's the Nausicaa Aquarium, the Museum of the Atlantic Wall, and the Second World War Museum. There are also beaches and parks to explore as well as some nice playgrounds.

Is Almeria or Calais Better for Couples?

Almeria
Calais

Almeria is well known for couples. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Calais is a nice destination for couples. Couples can picnic with wine and cheese or eat their way through the town's great restaurants. There are also some nice beaches where people enjoy sunbathing or relaxing.


Is Almeria or Calais Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria
Calais

Almeria is well known for backpackers. However, Calais 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.

Calais is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This part of France is often overlooked by tourists so you won't find many backpackers or hostels in the area. It does offer a glimpse into an authentic side of France.

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

Almeria
Calais

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

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 Calais offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has 13 bus lines that run through town and into the surrounding areas. If you're arriving by ferry from the UK, there are shuttle buses that connect the ferry terminal to the train station.

Is Almeria or Calais a more walkable city?

Almeria
Calais

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

Calais is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the town are more walkable than others.

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 Calais Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Calais or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Calais?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Almeria and Calais. In our opinion, Almeria has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Almeria than Calais. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Almeria than Calais. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria than Calais 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 Calais? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Calais 1-3

One day in Almeria or Calais?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Almeria. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Calais, you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 Calais?

Almeria 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.

In Calais, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Calais has to offer.

Five days in Almeria or Calais?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Almeria. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Calais is a great place to explore. 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 Calais?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the natural destination of Almeria. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Calais. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Calais. 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 Budget Tours to France, and The Best Tours for Seniors to France.


Which place is cheaper, Calais 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 Calais is €139. 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 Calais in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Calais 77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Calais 154
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Calais

Looking for a hotel in Almeria or Calais? 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 Calais


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: Calais Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Calais 47

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Almeria or Calais?

Prices for flights to both Calais 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
    Calais 35

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Calais 8.92

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Almeria 4.29
    Calais 12

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Almeria and Calais, we can see that Calais 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 Calais would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Calais 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 Calais Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Almeria or Calais?

Almeria has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Calais. When comparing the sizes of Almeria and Calais, 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 Calais?

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 Calais in the Summer?

Both Calais and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Almeria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Calais for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Almeria is a little warmer than Calais in the summer. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Calais fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Calais. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Calais during summer. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies, while Calais receives 212 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Almeria usually receives less rain than Calais. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Calais receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Calais 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Calais in the Autumn?

Both Calais and Almeria during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Almeria for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Calais in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Almeria is much warmer than Calais. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Almeria in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Calais averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Almeria. In the autumn, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Calais. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Calais receives 119 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in October than Calais. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Calais receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Calais 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Calais in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Calais. Many visitors come to Almeria in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Calais for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Calais can be very cold during winter. In January, Almeria is generally much warmer than Calais. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 13°C (55°F), and Calais fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Calais during winter. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Calais receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Almeria usually receives less rain than Calais. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Calais receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Calais 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Calais in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Calais. Most visitors come to Almeria for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Calais because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Almeria is much warmer than Calais in the spring. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Calais fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the spring, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Calais. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Calais receives 162 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in April than Calais. Almeria gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Calais receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Calais 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Calais and Almeria

Almeria Calais
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)


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