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

Should you visit Arles or Brescia?

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 Brescia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a undisovered, authentic, and under-rated city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Arles or Brescia?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Arles than Brescia. While Brescia is larger than Arles, Arles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Arles is better known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Brescia is more popular for its shopping. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. Also, Arles is famous for L'Amphithéâtre Romain. Brescia is well known for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Arles different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Arles
Brescia

Arles is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Arles that are not to be missed. 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.

Brescia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.


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

Arles
Brescia

Dining out at restaurants in both Arles and Brescia can be an enjoyable experience.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Brescia. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Arles or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

Arles
Brescia

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arles and Brescia.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Arles or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Arles
Brescia

Arles is renowned for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Arles is one of the most recognized in the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Arles or Brescia?

Arles
Brescia

Brescia is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Brescia. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

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

Is Arles or Brescia Better for Families?

Arles
Brescia

Most people don't think of either Arles or Brescia 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, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Arles or Brescia Better for Couples?

Arles
Brescia

Arles is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.


Is Arles or Brescia Better for Students?

Arles
Brescia

Brescia is very good for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Brescia is popular with students. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Arles is not popular with students.

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

Arles
Brescia

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

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 Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

Is Arles or Brescia a more walkable city?

Arles
Brescia

Arles is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.


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

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Arles?

How long in Arles or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Arles or Brescia to fill your time. In our opinion, Arles has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arles than Brescia. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Arles than Brescia. 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 Brescia. 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 Arles than Brescia 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 Arles.


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

One day in Arles or Brescia?

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.

In Brescia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Arles or Brescia?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brescia. 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 Brescia?

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.

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


A week in Arles or Brescia?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Brescia. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Arles?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arles is €142, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. 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 Arles and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arles 71
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arles 142
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Arles and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Arles or Brescia? 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 Arles


Hotels in Brescia


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 and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arles 23
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Arles or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Arles 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
    Arles 52
    Brescia 47
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

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

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


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

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

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arles 31
    Brescia 31
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

Tours and Activities in Brescia

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

  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Tour in Lugana DOP - 3 wines from Perla del Garda: $33
  • Sirmione Sunset Tour: $38
  • Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board: $57
  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Italy most underrated city:Brescia-Walking tour with a drink: $74
  • Photographic tour at sunset on Lake Garda: $78
  • Canyoning "Gumpenfever" - beginner Canyoningtour for everyone: $84
  • Lake Cruise (visit Torri & Gargnano): $91
  • Desenzano e-bike tour: $98
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arles 24
    Brescia 23

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


When comparing the travel costs between Arles and Brescia, we can see that Brescia 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 Brescia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arles or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Arles and Brescia, 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 Brescia?

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 Brescia in the Summer?

Both Brescia 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 Brescia for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arles is around the same temperature as Brescia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arles in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Brescia averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Brescia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. Arles usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during summer. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arles usually receives less rain than Brescia. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arles 24°C (75°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Arles or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia 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 Brescia in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Arles is generally a little warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 16°C (61°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Arles often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Arles. Arles usually gets more rain in October than Brescia. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arles 16°C (61°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Arles or Brescia in the Winter?

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

Brescia can be very cold during winter. Arles is much warmer than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Arles usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during winter. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arles usually receives more rain than Brescia. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arles 7°C (44°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Arles or Brescia in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Arles is around the same temperature as Brescia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arles in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Brescia averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. In the spring, Arles often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets less rain in April than Brescia. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arles 13°C (56°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Arles

Arles Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)