A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arles vs. Cairngorms National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

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.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Arles and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arles. Although Arles and Cairngorms National Park are popular destinations, Arles has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arles is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cairngorms National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also well known for L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Arles different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Arles is renowned for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Arles or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Arles is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Arles has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Arles or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Arles is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Arles or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Arles is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Arles or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Arles is very good for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Arles has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Arles or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

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

Cairngorms National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

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 Arles or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Both Arles and Cairngorms National Park are very good 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.

Cairngorms National Park is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Arles or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cairngorms National Park is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Arles is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Arles has some public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.


Is Arles or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Arles
Cairngorms National Park

Arles is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Arles Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Arles?

How long in Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Arles or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Arles because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Arles, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Couples should spend more time in Arles than Cairngorms National Park. 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 Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arles 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the quaint town of Arles, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Cairngorms National Park, many people enjoy the food that this picturesque destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the charming destination of Arles, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairngorms National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic town of Arles. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park is a fun place to experience. In Cairngorms National Park, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

Arles is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find food around the beautiful destination of Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park 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 Arles and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arles 71
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arles 142
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Arles and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Arles or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arles 23
    Cairngorms National Park 62

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 Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park 35
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arles 31
    Cairngorms National Park 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:

  • 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

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arles 24
    Cairngorms National Park 9.81

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 Arles and Cairngorms National Park, 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 Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Arles or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Arles or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arles as well as Cairngorms National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Arles because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

Arles is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. In the summer, Arles often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arles 24°C (75°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Arles or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Arles are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Arles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Arles is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arles in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Arles usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Arles. In October, Arles usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arles 16°C (61°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Arles or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Arles during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Cairngorms National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Arles is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 7°C (44°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Arles often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arles 7°C (44°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Arles or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arles and Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors come to Arles in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

Arles is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arles usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arles usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arles 13°C (56°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Arles

Arles Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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