A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Dijon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Dijon?

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 Dijon. 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 historic, ancient, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dijon

Dijon is a culinary, relaxing, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Dijon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than Dijon. Athens is bigger than Dijon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Dijon is well known for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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

Many visitors head to Dijon specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Dijon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Dijon 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, Dijon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

Is Athens or Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Athens is terrific for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Athens or Dijon Better for its Old Town?

Athens is terrific for its historic old town. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Dijon?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Dijon both offer plenty of notable spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Dijon is a great destination for shopping. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Athens or Dijon Better for Families?

Athens is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Athens is 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.

Dijon is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Athens or Dijon Better for Couples?

Dijon is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Dijon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

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 Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is terrific for backpackers. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Dijon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Athens or Dijon Better for Students?

Athens is notable for students. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Plenty of students visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

Is Athens or Dijon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is notable for its public transit. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Athens can move around easily with public transportation. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Dijon has some public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

Is Athens or Dijon a more walkable city?

Athens is notable for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Dijon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Athens?

How long in Athens or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Athens or Dijon. 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 Dijon.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Dijon. 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 Athens than Dijon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Athens that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Dijon 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 Dijon?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

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

A weekend in Athens or Dijon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Dijon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Dijon?

Athens is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dijon. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Dijon?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Dijon. This city 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, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Dijon, we can see that Dijon is more expensive. And not only is Athens much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Athens would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Athens and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dijon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dijon than you might in Athens.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Dijon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Dijon?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

Both Dijon and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dijon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Dijon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Dijon averages at about 21°C (70°F).

In Dijon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Dijon. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Dijon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Dijon. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dijon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Athens is generally much warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Dijon. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Dijon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Dijon. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dijon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dijon can be very cold during winter. Athens is much warmer than Dijon in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Dijon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Dijon. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Dijon in the Spring?

Both Dijon and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dijon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is a little warmer than Dijon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Dijon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Dijon. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dijon and Athens