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

Should you visit Chania or Toulon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Toulon, 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Toulon

Toulon is a real world, industrial, and authentic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chania and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Toulon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Toulon. While Toulon is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is better known for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Toulon is more popular for its shopping and impressive beauty. Chania is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. Also, Chania is famous for The Venetian Harbor. Toulon is well known for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Chania different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chania is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Chania specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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

Chania is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Chania or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Toulon has a few options to choose from. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Chania or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Is Chania or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Chania is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Chania or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Chania is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is Chania or Toulon Better for Hiking?

Chania is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Toulon?

Toulon is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Toulon. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chania. 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.

Is Chania or Toulon Better for Families?

Chania is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chania is 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Chania or Toulon Better for Couples?

Chania is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Chania is a very popular place to visit for couples. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Chania or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chania. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

Is Chania or Toulon 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 Toulon.

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 Toulon offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Chania or Toulon a more walkable city?

Chania and Toulon 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.

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Chania?

How long in Chania or Toulon?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Chania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Toulon. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Toulon?

Chania is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming destination of Chania. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the off-the-beaten-path destination of Toulon. This port 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Toulon. Most visitors come to Chania for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Toulon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chania is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chania in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Toulon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Toulon. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Toulon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chania as well as Toulon. The autumn months attract visitors to Chania because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

In October, Chania is generally a little warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 20°C (68°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. In the autumn, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chania is much warmer than Toulon in the winter. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Chania usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chania. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Toulon. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Toulon in the Spring?

Both Toulon and Chania during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Chania for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Toulon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Chania is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chania in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Toulon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chania. In the spring, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Toulon. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Chania