A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chania vs. La Rochelle for Food, Beaches, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Chania or La Rochelle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or La Rochelle, 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 picturesque, historic, and idyllic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a charming, peaceful, and relaxing coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Chania and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or La Rochelle?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chania than La Rochelle. While La Rochelle is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chania is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while La Rochelle is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Chania is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. La Rochelle is popular for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting.

How is Chania different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chania or La Rochelle.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Chania can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Rochelle. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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

Foodies will find both Chania and La Rochelle both to be fantastic 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 La Rochelle have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

Is Chania or La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

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

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 La Rochelle has a few options to choose from. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is Chania or La Rochelle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Chania has a few good snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

Chania is very popular for the beache. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Chania. 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.

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Is Chania or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle is revered around the world. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

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 La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

Chania is great for hiking. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Chania for the hiking trails. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Many people include a hike when visiting La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or La Rochelle?

Shopping is a popular activity in both La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Is Chania or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Chania is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chania is very family-friendly. 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Chania or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

La Rochelle is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

La Rochelle has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

Chania is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Is Chania or La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

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

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is Chania or La Rochelle Better for Students?

La Rochelle is a nice place to visit for students. However, Chania is not popular with students.

La Rochelle is popular with students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Chania is not popular with students.

Is Chania or La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Is Chania or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Chania and La Rochelle both are very good 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.

La Rochelle is very walkable. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Chania?

How long in Chania or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Chania or La Rochelle. In our opinion, Chania has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chania than La Rochelle. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Rochelle.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chania than La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historic city of Chania. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chania or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the idyllic destination of Chania. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

La Rochelle is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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 La Rochelle?

The historic city of Chania offers museums and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. Don't miss the food, 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Chania. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle in the Summer?

Both La Rochelle and Chania during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chania in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to La Rochelle for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Chania is generally a little warmer than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In La Rochelle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chania. In the summer, Chania often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in July than La Rochelle. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and La Rochelle. Most visitors come to Chania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

Chania is a little warmer than La Rochelle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chania usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chania or La Rochelle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chania as well as La Rochelle. The winter months attract visitors to Chania because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

In the winter, Chania is much warmer than La Rochelle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Chania often gets more sunshine than La Rochelle. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Chania receives a lot of rain in the winter. Chania usually gets more rain in January than La Rochelle. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Chania is generally a little warmer than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually receives more sunshine than La Rochelle during spring. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chania usually receives less rain than La Rochelle. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Chania