A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Avignon vs. Barcelona for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Avignon or Barcelona?

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 Avignon and Barcelona. 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.

Avignon

Avignon is a historical, quaint, and charming town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a high energy, youthful, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Avignon and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Avignon or Barcelona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Avignon. Barcelona is bigger than Avignon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is better known for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Avignon is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm. Barcelona is more touristy than Avignon and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Avignon is well known for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

How is Avignon different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Avignon or Barcelona?

Avignon is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona 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 Avignon that are not to be missed. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Avignon or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avignon is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Avignon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Barcelona is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is renowned for its music scene. However, Avignon is not a live music destination.

Barcelona has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Avignon is not a live music destination.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a good destination for the beach. However, Avignon is not a beach destination.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Avignon is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Avignon is one of the most recognized in the world. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Avignon or Barcelona?

Barcelona is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Barcelona specifically to go shopping. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for Families?

Both Avignon and Barcelona are notable family-friendly destinations.

Avignon is a family-friendly town. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Barcelona. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Avignon is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Avignon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Barcelona, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Avignon is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a very popular place to visit for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Avignon is not popular with students.

Is Avignon or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you to most places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

You'll find some public transit in Avignon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Avignon or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Avignon is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Avignon on foot. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable town. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Avignon Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Avignon?

How long in Avignon or Barcelona?

Both Avignon and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Avignon. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Avignon, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Avignon 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 Barcelona.

One day in Avignon or Barcelona?

Even though Avignon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Avignon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This 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 Avignon or Barcelona?

Avignon is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Avignon or Barcelona?

Avignon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Avignon or Barcelona?

Avignon is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Avignon or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Avignon and Barcelona, 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 Avignon or Barcelona?

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 Avignon or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Avignon as well as Barcelona. Most visitors come to Avignon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Avignon is around the same temperature as Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Avignon in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Avignon this time of the year. In the summer, Avignon often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Avignon gets 354 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Avignon usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Avignon gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Avignon or Barcelona in the Autumn?

Both Barcelona and Avignon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Avignon because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In October, Avignon is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Avignon average around 16°C (61°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Avignon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during autumn. Avignon gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Avignon. In October, Avignon usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Avignon gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Avignon or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Avignon during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Avignon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Avignon is cooler than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in Avignon averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Avignon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona. Avignon gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Avignon usually gets more rain in January than Barcelona. Avignon gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Avignon or Barcelona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Avignon and Barcelona. Many travelers come to Avignon for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Avignon is around the same temperature as Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Avignon in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Avignon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Avignon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during spring. Avignon gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Avignon usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Avignon gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Avignon