A Travel Price Comparison for France Arles vs. Aix-en-Provence for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

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

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

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.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a laid-back, relaxing, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Arles and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Arles than Aix-en-Provence. While Aix-en-Provence is larger than Arles, Arles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Arles is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also well known for L'Amphithéâtre Romain. Aix-en-Provence is famous for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Arles different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

Arles is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Is the Food Better in Arles or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Aix-en-Provence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

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 Arles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Arles is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Arles has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Arles or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Arles is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Arles has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Aix-en-Provence is a world class destination for shoppers. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

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

Is Arles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Arles or Aix-en-Provence as a family destination.

Arles doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Arles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Both Arles and Aix-en-Provence are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Aix-en-Provence is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Arles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aix-en-Provence is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Aix-en-Provence is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

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 Arles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Aix-en-Provence is well known for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Aix-en-Provence is very popular with students. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Arles is not popular with students.

Is Arles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arles and Aix-en-Provence.

You'll find some public transit in Arles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Arles or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Arles and Aix-en-Provence both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Aix-en-Provence is very walkable. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Arles Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Arles?

How long in Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Arles or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Arles, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence 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 Aix-en-Provence.

One day in Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

The compact destination of Arles offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. This town 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.

A weekend in Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

The town of Arles offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

Five days in Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

Arles is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aix-en-Provence is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Aix-en-Provence. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Arles and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Arles Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Arles or Aix-en-Provence?

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

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 Arles or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Arles are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences.

Arles is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence in the summer. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. Arles usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during summer. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arles usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Arles or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Arles during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Arles is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arles in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Arles often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Arles. Arles usually gets more rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Arles or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arles and Aix-en-Provence. Many visitors come to Arles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Arles is generally around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 7°C (44°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Arles usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during winter. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arles usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Arles or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arles as well as Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Arles for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the natural beauty.

Arles is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence in the spring. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. In the spring, Arles often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets more rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Arles