A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auxerre vs. Genoa for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Auxerre or Genoa?

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 Auxerre and Genoa can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a undiscovered, authentic, and under-rated town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Genoa

Genoa is a energetic, historic, and vibrant port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Auxerre and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Auxerre or Genoa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Genoa. Although Auxerre and Genoa are popular destinations, Genoa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Genoa is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre attracts visitors for its small town charm. Genoa is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. It is also well known for The Via Garibaldi Palaces. Auxerre is famous for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Auxerre different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Genoa and Auxerre. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auxerre or Genoa?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is great for its historical sights. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Genoa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


Is the Food Better in Auxerre or Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Genoa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Auxerre or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is very good for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Genoa has a few options to choose from. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Auxerre or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is adequate for the beach. However, Auxerre is not a beach destination.

The beach in Genoa is worth checking out. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Auxerre is not a beach destination.


Is Auxerre or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Genoa has an old town worth visiting. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Auxerre or Genoa?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is very good for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Genoa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Auxerre or Genoa Better for Families?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Genoa. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.


Is Auxerre or Genoa Better for Couples?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is great for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Genoa is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

Is Auxerre or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

Is Auxerre or Genoa Better for Students?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Auxerre is not popular with students.

Genoa is very popular with students. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Auxerre is not popular with students.


Is Auxerre or Genoa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

The public transit in Genoa can get you to most places easily. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.

Is Auxerre or Genoa a more walkable city?

Auxerre
Genoa

Genoa is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Auxerre Worth Visiting? and Is Genoa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Auxerre?

How long in Auxerre or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Auxerre or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Auxerre, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Genoa than Auxerre 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 Genoa.


  • How many days in Auxerre or Genoa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Auxerre 1-2 
    Genoa 2-4

One day in Auxerre or Genoa?

In Auxerre, many people enjoy the food and museums that this undiscovered destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Auxerre or Genoa?

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

In Genoa, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Genoa has to offer.

Five days in Auxerre or Genoa?

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

Genoa is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Auxerre or Genoa?

You'll find museums and food around the under-rated destination of Auxerre. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Genoa or Auxerre?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Auxerre is €113, while the average daily cost in Genoa is €150. 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 Auxerre and Genoa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Auxerre 51
    Genoa 88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Auxerre 102
    Genoa 176
Compare Hotels in Auxerre and Genoa

Looking for a hotel in Auxerre or Genoa? 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 Auxerre


Hotels in Genoa


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: Auxerre Hotel Prices and Genoa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Auxerre 46
    Genoa 8.69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

Also for Genoa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Genova : Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $599
  • Private Direct Transfer From Genoa to Nice, En Speaking Driver: $271
  • Private Transfer From Genoa to Milan English Speaking Driver: $249
  • Genoa to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $229
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $222
  • From Genoa to Florence Hotels - Private Transfer: $145
  • Genoa to Malpensa Milan Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer : $131
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa to/from Portofino: $123
  • Private transfer from Genoa to Portofino with Hotel or Cruise Port pick-up: $120
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $118
  • Genoa airport (GOA) to Savona Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $118
  • Genoa to Milan - Arrival Private Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Auxerre or Genoa?

Prices for flights to both Genoa and Auxerre 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
    Auxerre 34
    Genoa 51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

For Genoa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $68
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $74
  • Itinerant dinner in the old town: $75
  • Street Food Tour: $84
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $86
  • Traditional Food Tour: $91
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Camogli: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Savona: $93
  • Dining experience with cooking demo and wines in Rapallo: $93
  • Traditional Home Cooking Class in Genoa: $93
  • Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner: $93
  • Small-group Street food tour in Savona: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Auxerre 18
    Genoa 20

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Auxerre.

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92

Tours and Activities in Genoa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Genoa.

  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour from Via Del Campo 29 Rosso: $82
  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Genoa: $104
  • 3 Hours Private Walking Tour of Genoa from the Cruise Terminal: $240
  • Aquarium of Genoa + Panera Ice Cream Taste experience: $32
  • Aquarium of Genoa Ticket and Whale Watching Cruise: $70
  • Aquarium of Entry Ticket and Aperitif: $31
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Genoa: $152
  • Cesarine: Small Group Market tour and Dining Experience in Genoa: $141
  • City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $27
  • Departure by Private Car from Genoa City to Genoa Cruise Port: $44
  • Discover Genoa, old town walking tour: $131
  • E-bike tour in Genova: $82

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Auxerre 6.14
    Genoa 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

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

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

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

  • Guided Eco Hiking and Sea View Wine Tasting in Portofino Park: $75
  • 3 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $105
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $125


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Auxerre and Genoa, we can see that Genoa is more expensive. And not only is Auxerre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Auxerre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auxerre 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 Genoa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Genoa than you might in Auxerre.

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


Which is Bigger, Auxerre or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Auxerre and Genoa, 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 Auxerre or Genoa?

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 Auxerre or Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa and Auxerre are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Genoa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Auxerre is cooler than Genoa in the summer. The daily temperature in Auxerre averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Genoa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Auxerre. Auxerre usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during summer. Auxerre gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Auxerre usually receives more rain than Genoa. Auxerre gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F) 
    Genoa 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Auxerre or Genoa in the Autumn?

Both Genoa and Auxerre during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Auxerre for the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Genoa in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Auxerre is cooler than Genoa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Auxerre in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Genoa averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Auxerre often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Auxerre gets 126 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun.

Auxerre usually gets less rain in October than Genoa. Auxerre gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F) 
    Genoa 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Auxerre or Genoa in the Winter?

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

Auxerre can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Auxerre is generally much colder than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Auxerre average around 3°C (37°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Auxerre usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during winter. Auxerre gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Auxerre usually receives less rain than Genoa. Auxerre gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F) 
    Genoa 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Auxerre or Genoa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Auxerre as well as Genoa. Most visitors come to Auxerre for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Auxerre is cooler than Genoa in the spring. The daily temperature in Auxerre averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Genoa fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, Auxerre often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Auxerre gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun.

Auxerre usually gets less rain in April than Genoa. Auxerre gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F) 
    Genoa 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Genoa and Auxerre

Auxerre Genoa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)