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

Should you visit Catania or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Catania and Aix-en-Provence can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a youthful, fun, and historic port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

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.

Catania and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Catania than Aix-en-Provence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Catania is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its shopping and impressive beauty. Catania is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also home to Mount Etna. 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 Catania 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 Catania. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Catania and Aix-en-Provence.

Catania offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Aix-en-Provence. 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 Catania or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Catania and Aix-en-Provence offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

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.

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

Catania is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Catania is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

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 Catania or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Catania is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Is Catania or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Catania is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Catania offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

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

Is Catania or Aix-en-Provence Better for Hiking?

Catania is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

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

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

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

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

Catania is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

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 Catania or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

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

Catania is well known for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Catania is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Aix-en-Provence is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Catania or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Catania and Aix-en-Provence are both excellent destinations for students and younger travelers.

Catania is very popular with students. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Aix-en-Provence is a great port city to visit as a student. 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 Catania or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Catania 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 Catania can get you to most places easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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

Catania and Aix-en-Provence both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable destination. 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 Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Catania or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Catania 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, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Catania, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Catania 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 Catania.

One day in Catania or Aix-en-Provence?

The fun destination of Catania offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Catania or Aix-en-Provence?

The port city of Catania offers food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aix-en-Provence has to offer.

Five days in Catania or Aix-en-Provence?

Catania is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This port city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. 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 Catania or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Aix-en-Provence. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Catania and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Aix-en-Provence 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 Catania Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

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

Catania has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Catania 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 Catania 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 Catania or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Aix-en-Provence. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Catania is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°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 Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Catania as well as Aix-en-Provence. Many travelers come to Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Catania is generally a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°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, Catania often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Catania receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania usually gets more rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Catania in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Catania is much warmer than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during winter. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Catania usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Catania during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Catania for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Catania is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°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. It's quite sunny in Catania. In the spring, Catania often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 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 Catania