A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chania vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Chania or Arles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania 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.

Chania

Chania is a charming, picturesque, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chania and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chania. Although Chania and Arles are about the same size, Chania has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chania is very popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Arles attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Chania is more touristy than Arles and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also well known for The Venetian Harbor. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Chania different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Arles is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Arles on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Chania. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

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

Chania is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Chania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arles. 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 Chania or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Chania and Arles.

Chania has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

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 Chania or Arles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Chania. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Arles Better for Beaches?

Chania is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Chania is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Arles is revered around the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Chania is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

Is Chania or Arles Better for Hiking?

Chania is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Arles?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Arles and Chania.

Many visitors go to Chania to go shopping. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Chania or Arles Better for Families?

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

Chania is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

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 Chania or Arles Better for Couples?

Chania and Arles are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Chania frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Arles is a great city 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 Chania or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is well known for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Chania and Arles.

You'll find some public transit in Chania, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

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 Chania or Arles a more walkable city?

Chania and Arles both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Chania is a very walkable destination. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Chania?

How long in Chania or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chania or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chania than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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

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

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

One day in Chania or Arles?

In Chania, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this picturesque destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. 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.

Arles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Chania or Arles?

Chania is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Chania. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Chania or Arles?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the picturesque destination of Chania. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Arles. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Arles?

Chania has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Chania 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 Chania 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 Chania or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chania for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, 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.

Chania is a little warmer than Arles in the summer. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 26°C (80°F) in July, and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Arles. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Chania during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Chania because of the hiking trails, 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.

In the autumn, Chania is a little warmer than Arles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chania in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Arles averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Arles. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chania usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Arles. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Chania is generally much warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 12°C (54°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Chania usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Arles. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chania as well as Arles. Many travelers come to Chania for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the spring for the natural beauty.

Chania is a little warmer than Arles in the spring. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Arles. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arles and Chania