A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Aix-en-Provence for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Aix-en-Provence. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Athens and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens than Aix-en-Provence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Athens is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Aix-en-Provence attracts visitors for its shopping and impressive beauty. Athens is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis. Aix-en-Provence is famous for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

The Acropolis

How is Athens 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 Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Athens 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 Athens on the map. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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 Athens or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Aix-en-Provence can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

For foodies, Aix-en-Provence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Is Athens or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Athens is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Athens is a must-see party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

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

Athens has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

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

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

Aix-en-Provence is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Aix-en-Provence specifically to go shopping. 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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

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

Athens is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Athens is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

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

Athens is terrific for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Aix-en-Provence is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Athens or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Aix-en-Provence are great places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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

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

Athens is well known for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Athens can get you to most places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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 Athens or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Athens and Aix-en-Provence are great when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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 Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Athens or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Athens or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Athens due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

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

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

One day in Athens or Aix-en-Provence?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Aix-en-Provence?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Aix-en-Provence 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.

Five days in Athens or Aix-en-Provence?

Athens is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Aix-en-Provence?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Athens and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Aix-en-Provence 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

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

Athens has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Athens or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Aix-en-Provence. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Athens is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°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 Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Athens is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In January, Athens is generally much warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Aix-en-Provence. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Aix-en-Provence. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty.

Athens is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Athens