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

Should you visit Chania or Avignon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Avignon, 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 idyllic, charming, and picturesque city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Avignon

Avignon is a picturesque, historical, and quaint town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Chania and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Avignon?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chania than Avignon. While Avignon is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chania is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Avignon attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Chania is famous for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also well known for The Venetian Harbor. Avignon is famous for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

How is Chania different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Avignon 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 Avignon?

Avignon 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 Avignon on the map. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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 Avignon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Chania and Avignon both to be world-class destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Many restaurants in Avignon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

Is Chania or Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Chania is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Chania. 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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Chania or Avignon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Chania. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Avignon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Avignon Better for Beaches?

Chania is renowned for the beach. However, Avignon is not a beach destination.

Chania offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

Avignon 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 Avignon is revered around the world. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

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 Avignon Better for Hiking?

Chania is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Avignon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Avignon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Avignon?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Avignon 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 Avignon. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Chania or Avignon Better for Families?

Chania is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chania. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Chania or Avignon Better for Couples?

Chania and Avignon are both great 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.

Avignon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Chania or Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Chania. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Chania or Avignon 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 Avignon.

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 Avignon offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Chania or Avignon a more walkable city?

Avignon is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Avignon on foot is easy. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

Chania is very walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Chania?

How long in Chania or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chania or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chania than Avignon 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 Avignon.

Families should spend more time in Chania than Avignon. 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 Avignon. 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 Avignon 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 Avignon?

In Chania, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Avignon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Avignon?

In Chania, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Avignon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Avignon?

Chania is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Chania. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Avignon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 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 Chania and Avignon, we can see that Avignon 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 Avignon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avignon 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 Avignon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chania or Avignon?

Avignon has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Avignon, 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 Avignon?

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 Chania or Avignon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chania as well as Avignon. Many travelers come to Chania for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Avignon in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Avignon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the summer, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Avignon. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 354 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in July than Avignon. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Avignon in the Autumn?

Both Avignon and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Avignon for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

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

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Avignon during autumn. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Avignon. In October, Chania usually receives less rain than Avignon. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chania or Avignon in the Winter?

Both Avignon and Chania during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Chania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Avignon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Chania often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 146 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually gets more rain in January than Avignon. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Avignon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Avignon. The spring months attract visitors to Chania because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Avignon this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Avignon during spring. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chania usually receives less rain than Avignon. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Chania