A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dover vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Dover or Paris?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dover and Paris can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a natural, breathtaking, and iconic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Dover and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dover or Paris?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paris than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paris is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Dover is more popular for its hiking. Paris is more touristy than Dover and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Dover different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dover or Paris?

Paris is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Paris on the map. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is a world-class destination for its shows and theatre. However, Dover is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Dover is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Dover or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Paris has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dover. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

People head to Paris just to party. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Dover is not a live music destination.

In Paris you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Dover is not a live music destination.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Hiking?

Dover is great for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Dover for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Paris?

Paris is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Dover does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination during the Christmas season. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Dover does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Dover is a family-friendly town. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Paris has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Dover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paris is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Students?

Paris is a world-class destination for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Dover is not popular with students.

Is Dover or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Paris can get you around easily. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Paris a more walkable city?

Paris is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Paris is a very walkable destination. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

For even more information, also check out Is Dover Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Dover?

How long in Dover or Paris?

Both Dover and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Dover. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Dover 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 Paris.

One day in Dover or Paris?

In Dover, many people enjoy the food and museums that this natural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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.

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

A weekend in Dover or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dover. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

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

Five days in Dover or Paris?

Dover is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Dover. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Paris is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dover or Paris?

You'll find museums and food around the stunning destination of Dover. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dover or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Dover and Paris, 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 Dover or Paris?

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 Dover or Paris in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dover as well as Paris. Most visitors come to Dover for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dover is cooler than Paris. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dover in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Paris averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dover this time of the year. In the summer, Dover often gets less sunshine than Paris. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in July than Paris. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dover or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In October, Dover is generally around the same temperature as Paris. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 12°C (54°F), and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Dover usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Paris during autumn. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dover usually receives more rain than Paris. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dover or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Dover during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. It's quite cold in Dover in the winter. Dover is around the same temperature as Paris in the winter. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Dover often gets less sunshine than Paris. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in January than Paris. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dover or Paris in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Paris. Many travelers come to Dover for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dover is cooler than Paris. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dover in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Paris averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Dover usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Paris during spring. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dover usually receives less rain than Paris. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Dover