A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. Arles for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Belfast or Arles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Arles, 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.

Belfast

Belfast is a authentic, affordable, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife and shopping.

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Belfast and Arles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Belfast or Arles?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Arles than Belfast. While Belfast is larger than Arles, Arles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Arles is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Belfast is more popular for its big city activities. Belfast is well known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles". Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. Also, Arles is famous for L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Belfast different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Belfast or Arles?

Belfast
Arles

Arles is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Arles that are not to be missed. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Belfast or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Belfast
Arles

Arles is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arles makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Belfast
Arles

Both Belfast and Arles are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Belfast or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Belfast
Arles

Arles is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Arles offers plenty to see. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Arles?

Belfast
Arles

Both Belfast and Arles are notable shopping destinations.

Belfast is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Belfast or Arles Better for Families?

Belfast
Arles

Belfast is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Belfast. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Belfast or Arles Better for Couples?

Belfast
Arles

Arles is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Arles is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.


Is Belfast or Arles Better for Students?

Belfast
Arles

Belfast is very good for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Belfast is popular with students. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Arles is not popular with students.

Is Belfast or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Belfast
Arles

Arles is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Arles has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Arles a more walkable city?

Belfast
Arles

Arles is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.


For even more information, also check out Is Belfast Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Belfast or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Belfast than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Belfast, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arles than Belfast 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 Arles.


  • How many days in Belfast or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Belfast 1-3 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Belfast or Arles?

In Belfast, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this under-rated destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Belfast or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. 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 Arles, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Arles?

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

Arles is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Belfast or Arles?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the affordable destination of Belfast. 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 Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Belfast?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Belfast is £133, while the average daily cost in Arles is £121. 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 Belfast and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Belfast £68
    Arles £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Belfast £136
    Arles £122
Compare Hotels in Belfast and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Belfast or Arles? 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 Belfast


Hotels in Arles


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: Belfast Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Belfast £14
    Arles £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Luxury Car: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Luxury Van: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer Belfast Airport BHD or BFS to Belfast by Minibus: $145
  • Belfast Accommodation to Belfast City Airport (BHD) - Departure Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $54
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Holywood Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $55
  • Belfast City Airport BHD Executive transfer to Belfast 1-4 people: $58
  • Belfast City to Belfast International Airport (BFS) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Belfast City - Arrival Private Transfer: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Belfast or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Belfast 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
    Belfast £51
    Arles £44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Belfast.

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    £3.85
  • Ice Cream
    £0.86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Belfast £18
    Arles £26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Belfast are as follows:

  • Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Belfast's Iconic Sites: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.47
  • Museum Ticket: $6.90
  • Hillsborough Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $12
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour Belfast: $15
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour: $15
  • Crumlin Road Gaol Experience: $18
  • 2.5-Hour Street Murals Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Belfast Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Belfast Murals Political Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Line of Duty Guided Walking Tour: $21
  • Belfast Line of Duty Walking Tour: $22

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    £4.71

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Belfast £7.86
    Arles £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

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

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


When comparing the travel costs between Belfast and Arles, we can see that Belfast 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 Belfast Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Belfast or Arles?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Belfast and Arles, 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 Belfast or Arles?

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 Belfast or Arles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Arles. Most visitors come to Belfast for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Arles because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Belfast is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 15°C (59°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives more rain than Arles. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Belfast 15°C (59°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Arles. The autumn months attract visitors to Belfast because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Belfast is much colder than Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Arles. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Arles. Belfast usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Belfast 9°C (48°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Belfast in the winter. In the winter, Belfast is much colder than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Belfast in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives more rain than Arles. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Belfast 4°C (39°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Belfast during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Belfast for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Arles in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Belfast is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 8°C (46°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Arles. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Belfast 8°C (46°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Belfast

Belfast Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)