A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cork vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cork and Aix-en-Provence can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cork

Cork is a cultural, seaside, and youthful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a historic, vibrant, and laid-back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Cork and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cork than Aix-en-Provence. Cork is bigger than Aix-en-Provence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cork is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cork is well known for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer. Also, Cork is famous for The Blarney Castle and Stone. Aix-en-Provence is well known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Cork different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aix-en-Provence and Cork. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Cork is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cork can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.


Is the Food Better in Cork or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Aix-en-Provence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

Cork has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

Is Cork or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Cork is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Cork is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is the Shopping Better in Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Aix-en-Provence is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Cork is well-known for its shopping. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.


Is Cork or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Cork is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cork. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Cork or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Both Cork and Aix-en-Provence are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cork is a very popular place to visit for couples. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

Aix-en-Provence makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Cork or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Both Cork and Aix-en-Provence are notable destinations for backpackers.

Cork is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Plenty of backpackers visit Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.


Is Cork or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Cork and Aix-en-Provence are both high quality destinations for students and younger travelers.

Students come from all over to stay in Cork. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.

Many students visit Aix-en-Provence. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Is Cork or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Aix-en-Provence has a few public transit options. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.

Is Cork or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Cork
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is notable for its walkability. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Aix-en-Provence is very walkable. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

Cork is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Cork Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Cork?

How long in Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Cork or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cork, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Cork. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Aix-en-Provence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Cork 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 Aix-en-Provence.


  • How many days in Cork or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cork 1-3 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

The seaside destination of Cork offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

The city of Cork offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Aix-en-Provence is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

Cork is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the laid-back destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cork. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The historic town of Aix-en-Provence offers museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Cork?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cork is €101, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is €138. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cork and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cork 60
    Aix-en-Provence 81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cork 120
    Aix-en-Provence 162
Compare Hotels in Cork and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Cork or Aix-en-Provence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cork


Hotels in Aix-en-Provence


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cork Hotel Prices and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cork 16
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93
  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390

Is it cheaper to fly into Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Cork change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cork 30
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cork

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cork.

  • Hysterical Histories, Comedic Dinner Theater Show: $53
  • Hysterical Histories Cork Dinner Theatre Show: $57
  • Historic Cork Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65

Typical Food Prices in Aix-en-Provence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Aix-en-Provence:


  • Dinner for 2
    47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aix-en-Provence

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Aix-en-Provence.

  • NO DIET CLUB - Best food tour in Aix en Provence (En / Fr): $62
  • Food Tour: $102
  • Aix-en-Provence Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cork 9.29
    Aix-en-Provence 22

Tours and Activities in Cork

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cork are as follows:

  • Highlights of A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Cork Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Discover Cork's Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens Admission Ticket: $13
  • City Gaol Tour with Audio Guide: $14
  • Cork City Gaol Admission Ticket: $14
  • Cork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Guided Historical Walking Tour: $20
  • Cork Instagram Photography Walking Tour: $22
  • Tour guidé de Cork City centre en français: $24
  • Cork City Hop On/Off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Hop On/Hop Off Cork City Sightseeing Tour : $24

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $9.84
  • Provencal Market Walking Tour with Tastings: $37
  • Provençal Farmers market tour: $38
  • Guided Tour in Historical Old City: $60
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70
  • E-Bike tour of Sainte Victoire Mountain, Aix-en-Provence: $70
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Gourmet & Cultural Tour Aix En Provence English / Espanol: $73
  • An Aix-traordinary Walking City Tour of Aix-en-Provence: $75
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • Time flies by on this Aixquisite Walking Tour of Aix-en-Provence : $76

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cork 13
    Aix-en-Provence 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Cork

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cork:

  • Clonakilty Distillery Tour & Classic Whiskey Tasting: $22
  • Cork City: Rebel City Distillery Tour: $27
  • Rebel City Distillery Tour: $27
  • Midleton Distillery Tour with Whiskey Tasting: $32
  • Midleton Distillery Experience & Whiskey Tasting -Home of Jameson: $33
  • Whiskey Cocktail Making Class at Midleton Distillery: $64
  • Cork Irish Whiskey Cocktail Making Class at Midleton Distillery : $65
  • Midleton Distillery Behind the Scenes Tour & Tasting: $80
  • Blarney Castle Cork City and Jameson Distillery Semi Private Tour: $196
  • Private Cork City Tour, Kinsale and Jameson Distillery: $254

Sample the Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Half day Wine Tour in Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire from Aix en Provence: $93
  • Half Day Wine Tour in Coteaux d'Aix: $96
  • Half day Wine Tour in Côteaux Aix from Aix en Provence: $98
  • Half day Wine Tour in Bandol & Cassis from Aix en Provence: $104
  • From Wine Tour in Cezanne Countryside: $106
  • Provence small group half-day wine tour from Aix: $107
  • Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence: $108
  • Aix en Provence: Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting: $143
  • Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence: $151
  • Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix: $164
  • From Provence Region Tour with Wine Tasting: $166


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cork and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Aix-en-Provence is more expensive. And not only is Cork much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cork would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cork 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 Aix-en-Provence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aix-en-Provence than you might in Cork.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cork Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

Cork has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Cork and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Cork or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Cork or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cork and Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Cork for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cork is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Cork average around 16°C (60°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Cork usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during summer. Cork gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cork usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Cork gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cork 16°C (60°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Cork or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cork as well as Aix-en-Provence. The autumn months attract visitors to Cork because of 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 Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

Cork is cooler than Aix-en-Provence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cork averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the autumn, Cork often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Cork gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Cork usually gets more rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Cork gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cork 11°C (52°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Cork or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Cork 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 Cork this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cork is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cork in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Cork usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during winter. Cork gets 60 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Cork. In January, Cork usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Cork gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cork 6°C (43°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Cork or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Cork during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cork for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Cork is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Cork average around 9°C (48°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Cork often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Cork gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Cork usually gets more rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Cork gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cork 9°C (48°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Cork

Cork Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)