A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bristol vs. Nice for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Bristol or Nice?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Nice can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bristol

Bristol is a historic, diverse, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Nice

Nice is a chic, glamourous, and beautiful seaside destination. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bristol and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bristol or Nice?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Nice than Bristol. While Bristol is larger than Nice, Nice has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nice is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bristol is known for its museums and big city activities. Nice is more touristy than Bristol and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. It is also home to The Promenade des Anglais. Bristol is popular for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies.

How is Bristol different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bristol or Nice?

Bristol is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bristol or Nice? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nice is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Nice have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Bristol offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Nightlife?

Nice is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Nice is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

Bristol has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Resorts?

Nice is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Bristol is not a resort destination.

Nice is a world class resort vacation destination. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Bristol is not a resort destination.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a seaside destination with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bristol is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Bristol is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Beaches?

Nice is great for the beach. However, Bristol is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Nice attract visitors from all over. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Bristol is not a beach destination.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Nice is great for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Nice is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Nice?

If you're looking to go shopping, Bristol and Nice both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bristol. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Nice is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Families?

Both Bristol and Nice are good to visit with kids.

Bristol offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Nice is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Couples?

Nice is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Nice is a great seaside destination for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nice is a seaside destination with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Nice is a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Students?

Bristol is a city with good options for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Bristol is a good city to visit for students. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Nice is not popular with students.

Is Bristol or Nice Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

The public transit in Nice can get you to most places easily. There are both buses and trams.

Bristol has a few public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Is Bristol or Nice a more walkable city?

Nice is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Nice is a very easy seaside destination to get around on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

Bristol is very walkable. The city center is well designed for walking.

For even more information, also check out Is Bristol Worth Visiting? and Is Nice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nice or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Nice?

In either Bristol or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nice than Bristol because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bristol, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nice than Bristol 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 Nice.

One day in Bristol or Nice?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bristol. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Nice, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bristol or Nice?

Bristol is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Nice, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Bristol or Nice?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Bristol. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bristol or Nice?

The diverse city of Bristol offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Nice. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Nice. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bristol or Nice?

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Bristol and Nice, 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 Bristol or Nice?

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 Bristol or Nice in the Summer?

Both Nice and Bristol during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Bristol because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nice this time of year.

In July, Bristol is generally cooler than Nice. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 18°C (64°F), and Nice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in July than Nice. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Nice in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Nice. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Bristol is cooler than Nice in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Nice fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Nice receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bristol usually receives less rain than Nice. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bristol or Nice in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Nice. Many travelers come to Bristol for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Nice in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Bristol is cooler than Nice. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bristol in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Nice averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Nice. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Nice in the Spring?

Both Nice and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bristol in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Bristol is generally cooler than Nice. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 10°C (50°F), and Nice fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Nice. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nice and Bristol