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

Should you visit Chania or Rouen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Rouen, 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 historic, idyllic, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Rouen

Rouen is a impressive, relaxing, and historical city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chania and Rouen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Rouen?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Rouen. While Rouen is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Rouen is known for its impressive beauty. Chania is more touristy than Rouen and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. Rouen is popular for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Chania different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chania is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Chania offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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

Chania is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Chania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Chania or Rouen Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Rouen has a few options to choose from. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Chania or Rouen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Rouen Better for Beaches?

Chania is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Rouen is not a beach destination.

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.

Rouen is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

Chania is notable for its old town. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Chania. 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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is Chania or Rouen Better for Hiking?

Chania is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Chania is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Rouen?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rouen 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 Rouen. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Chania or Rouen Better for Families?

Chania is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chania is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Chania or Rouen Better for Couples?

Chania and Rouen are both very good 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.

Rouen is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Chania or Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is notable for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

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

Rouen is well known for its public transit. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Rouen. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

While Chania offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

Is Chania or Rouen a more walkable city?

Chania and Rouen 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.

Rouen is very walkable. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Chania?

How long in Chania or Rouen?

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

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

In Chania, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this historic 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 Rouen. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Rouen?

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.

Rouen 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen. 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 Rouen?

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 charming destination of Rouen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chania and Rouen, we can see that Rouen 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 Rouen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rouen 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 Rouen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chania or Rouen?

Rouen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Rouen, 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Rouen. 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 Rouen for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Chania is generally much warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rouen this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Rouen during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Rouen. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Rouen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chania as well as Rouen. 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 Rouen because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Chania is much warmer than Rouen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Rouen fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Rouen. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 127 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets more rain in October than Rouen. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Rouen in the Winter?

Both Rouen and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Rouen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Rouen in the winter. In the winter, Chania is much warmer than Rouen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Rouen averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Rouen during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chania. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Rouen. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Rouen in the Spring?

Both Rouen and Chania during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rouen for the natural beauty.

In April, Chania is generally much warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Chania. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Rouen. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 172 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Rouen. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rouen and Chania