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

Should you visit Arles or Zaragoza?

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

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a compact, authentic, and cultural city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles and Zaragoza: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Arles or Zaragoza?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Arles than Zaragoza. While Zaragoza is larger than Arles, Arles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Arles is very popular for its museums and historical sights, while Zaragoza attracts visitors for its shopping. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also well known for L'Amphithéâtre Romain. Zaragoza is famous for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Arles different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Arles
Zaragoza

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.


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

Arles
Zaragoza

Dining out at restaurants in both Arles and Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Arles or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

Arles
Zaragoza

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

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 Zaragoza has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Arles or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Arles
Zaragoza

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.


Is the Shopping Better in Arles or Zaragoza?

Arles
Zaragoza

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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

Is Arles or Zaragoza Better for Families?

Arles
Zaragoza

Zaragoza is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zaragoza. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

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 Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Arles
Zaragoza

Both Arles and Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.


Is Arles or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arles
Zaragoza

Zaragoza is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zaragoza is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

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 Zaragoza Better for Students?

Arles
Zaragoza

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

Zaragoza is popular with students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Arles is not popular with students.

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

Arles
Zaragoza

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. There are buses and trams around the city.

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 Arles or Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Arles
Zaragoza

Arles and Zaragoza both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Arles?

How long in Arles or Zaragoza?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Arles or Zaragoza? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arles 1-2 
    Zaragoza 1-3

One day in Arles or Zaragoza?

The beautiful town of Arles offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Zaragoza, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Zaragoza?

Arles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arles, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zaragoza. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.


Five days in Arles or Zaragoza?

Arles is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Arles or Zaragoza?

Arles is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Zaragoza. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza is €126. 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 Zaragoza in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Arles or Zaragoza? 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 Zaragoza


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 Zaragoza Hotel Prices.

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

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 Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $66
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $66
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Arles or Zaragoza?

Prices for flights to both Zaragoza 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
    Zaragoza 41
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zaragoza

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

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arles 31
    Zaragoza 35
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 Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.75
  • Zaragoza Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.94
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19
  • Zaragoza Aquarium Admission Ticket: $20
  • Combo Amusement Park and Aquarium entry ticket: $33
  • Kayaking in Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS: $44
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Zaragoza : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arles 24
    Zaragoza 14

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 Zaragoza

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Zaragoza:

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $102
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $104


When comparing the travel costs between Arles and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arles or Zaragoza?

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

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arles and Zaragoza. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences.

Arles is around the same temperature as Zaragoza in the summer. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arles usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza during summer. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arles usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arles 24°C (75°F) 
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Arles or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arles as well as Zaragoza. Many travelers come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Zaragoza in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Arles is around the same temperature as Zaragoza. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arles in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Arles often gets less sunshine than Zaragoza. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun.

Arles receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Arles usually gets more rain in October than Zaragoza. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arles 16°C (61°F) 
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Arles or Zaragoza in the Winter?

Both Zaragoza and Arles are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zaragoza for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Arles is generally cooler than Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 7°C (44°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Arles usually receives more sunshine than Zaragoza during winter. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arles usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arles 7°C (44°F) 
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Arles or Zaragoza in the Spring?

Both Zaragoza and Arles during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arles for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the natural beauty.

Arles is cooler than Zaragoza in the spring. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arles. In the spring, Arles often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets more rain in April than Zaragoza. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arles 13°C (56°F) 
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Arles

Arles Zaragoza
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in)