A Travel Price Comparison for France Chamonix-Mont-Blanc vs. Arles for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Arles. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a majestic, world-class, and spectacular mountain town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and skiing.

Arles

Arles is a charming, compact, and quaint town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Arles are both popular with visitors, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Arles is known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also home to Mont Blanc. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

Mont Blanc

How is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for winter skiing. However, Arles is not a skiing destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is among the world's best ski destinations. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Arles is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

Arles is terrific for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Arles are world-renowned. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Arles.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for Resorts?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arles is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a perfect choice. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Arles is not a resort destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is terrific for its old town. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

Arles has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc specifically for its hiking. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

Arles is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for Couples?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

Arles is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular mountain town for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles a more walkable city?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Arles are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable mountain town. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

How long in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Arles 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

One day in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this majestic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This mountain 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.

In Arles, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people visit Arles for a weekend. Lots of people come for the museums. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arles, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a fun place to experience. In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The beautiful destination of Arles offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this epic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers something for everyone. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.