A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Calais for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antalya or Calais?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Calais? 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.

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. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Calais: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Antalya or Calais?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antalya than Calais. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antalya is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Calais attracts visitors for its big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Calais and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also well known for Hadrian's Gate. Calais is famous for being a gateway for travelers to France.

How is Antalya different from Calais?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Antalya
Calais

Antalya is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Calais is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.


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

Antalya
Calais

Antalya is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Antalya is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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 Antalya or Calais Better for Nightlife?

Antalya
Calais

Antalya is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Calais 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 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 Antalya or Calais Better for Music?

Antalya
Calais

Antalya is a popular place for its music scene. However, Calais is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Calais is not a live music destination.


Is Antalya or Calais Better for Resorts?

Antalya
Calais

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great 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.

Calais is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Calais Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya
Calais

Antalya is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Calais is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Calais is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Calais Better for Beaches?

Antalya
Calais

Antalya 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 Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

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 Antalya or Calais Better for its Old Town?

Antalya
Calais

Antalya 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 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.

Calais does not have a historic old town.

Is Antalya or Calais Better for Hiking?

Antalya
Calais

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

Calais is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Calais?

Antalya
Calais

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Calais 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 Calais. 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.


Is Antalya or Calais Better for Families?

Antalya
Calais

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

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 Antalya or Calais Better for Couples?

Antalya
Calais

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

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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 Antalya or Calais Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya
Calais

Antalya is well known for backpackers. However, Calais 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.

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

Antalya
Calais

Antalya is well known for its public transit. Also, Calais 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 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 Antalya or Calais a more walkable city?

Antalya
Calais

Antalya and Calais are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Calais or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Calais?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Calais. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Calais. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-3 days is enough time in Calais.

Families should spend more time in Antalya than Calais. 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 Calais. 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 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 Antalya.


  • How many days in Antalya or Calais? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antalya 2-5 
    Calais 1-3

One day in Antalya or Calais?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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 Antalya or Calais?

Antalya 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 Antalya or Calais?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. 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 Antalya or Calais?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Antalya. This vacation spot 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best Budget Tours to France, and The Best Tours for Seniors to France.


Which place is cheaper, Calais 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 Calais is $149. 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 Calais in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antalya $55
    Calais $83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antalya $110
    Calais $166
Compare Hotels in Antalya and Calais

Looking for a hotel in Antalya 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 Antalya


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: Antalya Hotel Prices and Calais Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antalya $110
    Calais $50

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Antalya or Calais?

Prices for flights to both Calais 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
    Calais $38

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antalya $46
    Calais $9.56

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antalya $20
    Calais $13


When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Calais, we can see that Calais 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 Calais Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Antalya or Calais?

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

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 Calais in the Summer?

Both Calais and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Calais this time of year.

Antalya is much warmer than Calais in the summer. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Calais fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Calais, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Calais. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Calais receives 212 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Calais. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Calais receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antalya 28°C (83°F) 
    Calais 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Calais in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Calais. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Calais for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Antalya is much warmer than Calais. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antalya in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Calais averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Calais during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Calais receives 119 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives more rain than Calais. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Calais receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antalya 21°C (69°F) 
    Calais 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Calais in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Calais. Many travelers come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Calais in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Calais can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Antalya is generally much warmer than Calais. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 11°C (51°F), and Calais fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Calais. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Calais receives 57 hours of full sun.

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Calais. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Calais receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antalya 11°C (51°F) 
    Calais 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Calais in the Spring?

Both Calais and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antalya in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Calais for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

Antalya is much warmer than Calais in the spring. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 16°C (62°F) in April, and Calais fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Calais during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Calais receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives more rain than Calais. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Calais receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antalya 16°C (62°F) 
    Calais 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Calais and Antalya

Antalya Calais
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 239 mm (9.4 in) 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 196 mm (7.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 1 mm (0 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 227 mm (8.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)