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

Should you visit Antalya or Arles?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Arles? 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a historic, cultural, and vibrant vacation spot. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Arles

Arles is a charming, compact, and quaint town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Arles: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Antalya or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antalya than Arles. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antalya is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Arles attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Antalya is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also well known for Hadrian's Gate. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Antalya different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antalya
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Arles has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.


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

Antalya
Arles

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Arles can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arles makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Antalya or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Antalya
Arles

Antalya is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

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 Antalya or Arles Better for Music?

Antalya
Arles

Antalya is very good for its music scene. However, Arles is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Arles is not a live music destination.


Is Antalya or Arles Better for Resorts?

Antalya
Arles

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Antalya is a perfect choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Arles is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Arles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya
Arles

Antalya is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Arles Better for Beaches?

Antalya
Arles

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

With world-famous beaches, Antalya is a very popular vacation destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Arles is not a beach destination.


Is Antalya or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Antalya
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Arles offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Arles Better for Hiking?

Antalya
Arles

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Arles?

Antalya
Arles

Antalya is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Antalya is a world class destination for shoppers. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.


Is Antalya or Arles Better for Families?

Antalya
Arles

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

Antalya is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

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 Antalya or Arles Better for Couples?

Antalya
Arles

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Arles make for a great place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Antalya or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya
Arles

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

Antalya is a very popular vacation spot for backpackers and budget travelers. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

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

Antalya
Arles

Antalya is well known for its public transit. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Antalya. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

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 Antalya or Arles a more walkable city?

Antalya
Arles

Arles is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antalya or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antalya than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya 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 Antalya.


  • How many days in Antalya or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antalya 2-5 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Antalya or Arles?

In Antalya, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this relaxing destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This vacation spot offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Antalya or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. 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 Antalya or Arles?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. In Antalya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Antalya or Arles?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the high energy destination of Antalya. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Antalya?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Antalya is $147, while the average daily cost in Arles is $152. 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 Antalya and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antalya $55
    Arles $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antalya $110
    Arles $152
Compare Hotels in Antalya and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Antalya 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 Antalya


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: Antalya Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antalya $110
    Arles $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antalya

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

  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - Economy: $88
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - TOP VIP Minibus: $132
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - VIP Minibus: $117
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - VIP Minivan: $103
  • Private Transfer From Antalya Airport To Denizyaka / Gündoğdu / Çolaklı: $76
  • Private Transfer From Antalya Airport To Titreyengöl / Sorgun: $91
  • AYT - Konyaaltı | Private Transfer Between Antalya Airport: $37
  • Adana Airport Transfers to Adana city Hotels: $55
  • Adana Airport Transfers to Tarsus city Hotels: $82
  • Airport Private Transfer from Antalya to Side/Belek/Kundu: $65
  • Alanya City Tour, Boat Trip & Cable Car with Transfer from Side: $63
  • Alanya/Mahmutlar: Private Transfer to/from Antalya Airport: $42

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 Antalya or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Antalya 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
    Antalya $25
    Arles $55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antalya

For Antalya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pamukkalea and Salda Lake Tour with Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner: $40
  • Traditional Turkish Tastes at Antalya Food Tour: $47
  • Giza Pyramids Sound and Light Show with Dinner: $73
  • Full day trip to Pamukkale from Side with dinner: $104

Typical Food Prices in Arles

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


  • Cooked Clams
    $4.82
  • Ice Cream
    $1.07

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antalya $46
    Arles $33

Tours and Activities in Antalya

For Antalya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Antalya Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $3.21
  • Bazaar Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $6.00
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.65
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt And Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.84
  • Antalya Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-Guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Antalya Sand Sculpture Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Sulu Island and Adrasan Bay: Boat Tour with Lunch: $13
  • Full-Day Private Rafting Adventure in Karabük Türkiye: $13
  • Spa and Skin Care Experience with Massage and Drink: $14

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
    $5.89

Tours and Activities in Arles

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antalya $20
    Arles $26

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 comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Arles, we can see that Arles 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 Antalya Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Antalya or Arles?

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

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 Antalya or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences.

Antalya is a little warmer than Arles in the summer. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Arles. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antalya 28°C (83°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Arles. Many travelers come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Antalya is a little warmer than Arles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antalya in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Arles averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Arles during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Arles receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Arles. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antalya 21°C (69°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Arles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Arles. Many visitors come to Antalya in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Antalya is generally much warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 11°C (51°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Arles. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun.

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Arles. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antalya 11°C (51°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Arles because of the natural beauty.

Antalya is a little warmer than Arles in the spring. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 16°C (62°F) in April, and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Arles during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Arles. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antalya 16°C (62°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Antalya

Antalya Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 239 mm (9.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 196 mm (7.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 227 mm (8.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)