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

Should you visit Basel or Aix-en-Provence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Aix-en-Provence, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Basel

Basel is a historic, cultural, and museum-filled city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a historic, vibrant, and laid-back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Basel and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Basel. Although Basel and Aix-en-Provence are about the same size, Basel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Basel is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its food and shopping. Basel is popular for its many museums and its nice old town. It is also home to The Kunstmuseum Basel. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

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

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

Basel is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Basel can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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

Aix-en-Provence is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Aix-en-Provence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

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

Basel is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Basel has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

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

Basel is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Basel to see the historical old town. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

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

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

Aix-en-Provence is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Aix-en-Provence make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

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

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

Basel is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

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 Basel or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

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

Both Basel and Aix-en-Provence are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

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 Basel or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Basel and Aix-en-Provence are both superb destinations for students and younger travelers.

Basel is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Students come from all over to stay in Aix-en-Provence. 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 Basel or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Basel 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 Basel can get you to most places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Basel is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Basel on foot is easy. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

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

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

How long in Basel or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Basel or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Basel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Basel. 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 Basel 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 Basel.

One day in Basel or Aix-en-Provence?

The vibrant destination of Basel offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing destination offers. This town 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.

A weekend in Basel or Aix-en-Provence?

The city of Basel offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. 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.

Five days in Basel or Aix-en-Provence?

Basel is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

A week in Basel or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Basel. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing destination of Aix-en-Provence. 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 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Basel Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

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

Basel has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Basel or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Aix-en-Provence. The summer months attract visitors to Basel because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In the summer, Basel is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Basel in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In Basel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Basel usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Basel as well as Aix-en-Provence. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Basel is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 13°C (56°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the autumn, Basel often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets less rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Basel. Basel is much colder than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Basel usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Basel during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Basel in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Basel is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Basel in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Basel often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Basel