A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corfu vs. Arles for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Corfu or Arles?

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

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

Corfu

Corfu is a striking, relaxing, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Arles

Arles is a quaint, historic, and charming town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Corfu and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Corfu. Although Corfu and Arles are both popular with visitors, Corfu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Corfu is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Arles is known for its museums and historical sights. Corfu is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. It is also home to Canal d'Amour. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Corfu different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Arles is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Arles are world-renowned. 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.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Corfu has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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 Corfu or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Corfu is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Corfu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

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 Corfu or Arles Better for Resorts?

Corfu is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arles is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Corfu is a perfect choice. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Arles is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Arles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Arles Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Corfu is a very popular vacation destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Corfu or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Corfu does not have a 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.

Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Is Corfu or Arles Better for Hiking?

Corfu is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Corfu specifically for its hiking. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Arles?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Corfu. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

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

Is Corfu or Arles Better for Families?

Corfu is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Corfu is one of the most popular family destinations. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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 Corfu or Arles Better for Couples?

Corfu is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Corfu has plenty to offer. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Arles is a great island 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 Corfu or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Corfu is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

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

Corfu is well known for its public transit. Also, Arles 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 Corfu. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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 Corfu or Arles a more walkable city?

Corfu and Arles are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Corfu or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Corfu than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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

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

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

One day in Corfu or Arles?

In Corfu, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this breathtaking destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

In Arles, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Corfu or Arles?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Corfu or Arles?

Corfu is a fun place to experience. In Corfu, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Arles is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Arles. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Corfu or Arles?

In Corfu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this relaxing destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the compact destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Corfu and Arles, we can see that Arles is more expensive. And not only is Corfu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Corfu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Corfu 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 Corfu.

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

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 98% larger than the population of Corfu. When comparing the sizes of Corfu 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 Corfu or Arles?

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 Corfu or Arles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Arles. Most visitors come to Corfu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Arles because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Corfu is around the same temperature as Arles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Corfu in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Arles averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Corfu this time of the year. In the summer, Corfu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in July than Arles. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Corfu because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

In October, Corfu is generally a little warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 18°C (65°F), and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Corfu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during autumn. Corfu gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Arles. It's quite rainy in Corfu. In October, Corfu usually receives more rain than Arles. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Corfu or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Corfu during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Corfu is a little warmer than Arles in the winter. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 10°C (49°F) in January, and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets less sunshine than Arles. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Corfu. Corfu usually gets more rain in January than Arles. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Arles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Arles. Many travelers come to Corfu for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Arles in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Corfu is around the same temperature as Arles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Corfu in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Arles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. Corfu usually receives less sunshine than Arles during spring. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Corfu usually receives more rain than Arles. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Arles and Corfu