A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cambridge vs. Saint-Tropez for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

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 Cambridge and Saint-Tropez. 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.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a charming, historic, and beautiful university town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. 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 nightlife.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a celebrity-filled, extravagant, and luxurious resort town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cambridge and Saint-Tropez: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint-Tropez. Although Cambridge and Saint-Tropez are popular destinations, Saint-Tropez has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint-Tropez is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Cambridge attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Cambridge is famous for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it. Saint-Tropez is famous for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. It is also well known for The Old Port.

The Old Port
The Old Port

How is Cambridge different from Saint-Tropez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Cambridge is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Cambridge offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Cambridge is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cambridge. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Nightlife?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Saint-Tropez is a world class party destination. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

Cambridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Resorts?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Cambridge is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Saint-Tropez for its luxury resorts. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

Cambridge is not a resort destination.


Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cambridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Saint-Tropez. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Cambridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Beaches?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Cambridge is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint-Tropez for it's beautiful beaches. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Cambridge is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Saint-Tropez. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

Cambridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.


Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Families?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Saint-Tropez is very family-friendly. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cambridge. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Couples?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Saint-Tropez is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

Couples visit Cambridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.

Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Cambridge and Saint-Tropez are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Saint-Tropez. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.


Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Students?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Cambridge is an amazing university town to visit for students. However, Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Cambridge. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cambridge and Saint-Tropez.

Cambridge has some public transit options. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Tropez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

Is Cambridge or Saint-Tropez a more walkable city?

Cambridge
Saint-Tropez

Cambridge and Saint-Tropez are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Cambridge. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

Getting around Saint-Tropez on foot is easy. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.


For even more information, also check out Is Cambridge Worth Visiting? and Is Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint-Tropez or Cambridge?

How long in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint-Tropez than Cambridge 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 Saint-Tropez.


  • How many days in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cambridge 1-2 
    Saint-Tropez 2-4

One day in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

In Cambridge, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic university town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this university town.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort town of Saint-Tropez. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

Cambridge is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the glamourous destination of Saint-Tropez. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Cambridge. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the glamourous resort town of Saint-Tropez. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

Cambridge is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Saint-Tropez is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Tropez or Cambridge?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cambridge is £134, while the average daily cost in Saint-Tropez is £127. 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 Cambridge and Saint-Tropez in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cambridge £72
    Saint-Tropez £74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cambridge £144
    Saint-Tropez £148
Compare Hotels in Cambridge and Saint-Tropez

Looking for a hotel in Cambridge or Saint-Tropez? 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 Cambridge


Hotels in Saint-Tropez


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: Cambridge Hotel Prices and Saint-Tropez Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cambridge £24
    Saint-Tropez £29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cambridge

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

  • Private Transfer Heathrow To Cambridge: $175

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint-Tropez

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Saint-Tropez:

  • Santorini Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Santorini: $60
  • Private transfer from St Tropez to Nice: $305
  • Private transfer from St Tropez to Nice: $321
  • Private Transfer from Nice to St Tropez: $305
  • Private Transfer from Nice to St Tropez: $310
  • Private Transfer From Saint Tropez To Nice, 2 Hour Stop in Cannes: $290
  • Private Direct Transfer From Saint Tropez to Nice: $268
  • Private Direct Transfer From Saint Tropez to Marseille: $184

Is it cheaper to fly into Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

Prices for flights to both Saint-Tropez and Cambridge 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
    Cambridge £41
    Saint-Tropez £32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint-Tropez

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Saint-Tropez.

  • Saint Tropez : Food tour and highlights: $118
  • Saint Tropez unical food tour !: $120

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cambridge £22
    Saint-Tropez £23

Tours and Activities in Cambridge

For Cambridge, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Self-Guided Colleges Walking Tour and Sightseeing: $5.99
  • Hidden Histories Self-Guided Smartphone Tour: $5.99
  • Cambridge’s Colleges and Classic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cambridge Instagram Self-Guided Tour - Top Photo Spots: $6.35
  • Explore Cambridge's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Live Like a Student with Private Cambridge Self Guided Tours: $13
  • Explore Cambridge Student Life & Top Colleges Walking Tour: $13
  • Cambridge - Shared Punting Tour: $13
  • Shared Guided Punting Tour of Cambridge: $13
  • University Walking Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Saint-Tropez

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

  • 2 hours - Private tour of Saint Tropez with a local guide!: $240
  • FREJUS - ACTIVITY and ADVENTURE in Survival Techniques KATALANTA: $49
  • From BB to Emily in Paris: the beauties' tour of Saint Tropez: $104
  • From Cannes: Saint-Tropez Private Full-Day Tour by Van: $797
  • From Cannes: St Tropez & Port Grimaud Sightseeing Tour: $134
  • From Nice: St Tropez & Port Grimaud Full Day Tour: $134
  • Guided walking tour of Saint Tropez: $26
  • Ramatuelle: Tracks & Tasting Winery Tour by Mountain E-Bike: $80
  • Saint Tropez : Highlights Tour Shore Excursion: $294
  • Saint Tropez : Netflix Emily in Paris Tour: $102
  • Saint Tropez : Private Walking tour with a Tropezienne guide: $128
  • Saint Tropez : tour and sweet tasting: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cambridge £23
    Saint-Tropez £16

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint-Tropez

Also in Saint-Tropez, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Horse riding in the vineyards of Grimaud + wine tasting: $86
  • Horse back riding + wine tasting in Ramatuelle: $95
  • Small group wine tour from Saint-Tropez: $117
  • Provence Day, Saint Tropez Grimaud village Wine tasting: $118
  • Small group wine tour in the vineyards of the Gulf of St-Tropez: $119
  • Private 1/2 day wine tour St-Tropez: $141
  • Private wine tour in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: $250
  • Vintage wine tour in Saint-Tropez: $631


When comparing the travel costs between Cambridge and Saint-Tropez, we can see that Cambridge 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 Cambridge Expensive? and Is Saint-Tropez Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cambridge or Saint-Tropez?

Cambridge has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Cambridge and Saint-Tropez, 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.

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