A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dublin vs. Toulon for Nightlife, Attractions, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Dublin or Toulon?

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

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

Dublin

Dublin is a friendly, welcoming, and fun city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Toulon

Toulon is a real world, industrial, and authentic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dublin and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dublin than Toulon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dublin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while Toulon attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Dublin is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse. Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Dublin different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dublin or Toulon?

Dublin 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 Dublin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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 Dublin or Toulon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Dublin and Toulon.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Toulon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Dublin or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Dublin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. 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 Dublin or Toulon Better for Music?

Dublin is a well-known place for live music. However, Toulon is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Dublin is very popular with diverse venues. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Toulon is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a port city with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dublin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Toulon has a few snorkeling spots. 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.

Dublin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dublin or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Toulon is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Dublin is not a beach destination.

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.

Dublin is not a beach destination.

Is Dublin or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Dublin 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 Dublin. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

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 the Shopping Better in Dublin or Toulon?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Toulon and Dublin.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is Dublin or Toulon Better for Families?

Dublin 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.

Dublin is a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin or Toulon Better for Couples?

Dublin 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.

Dublin is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

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 Dublin or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin 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 Dublin. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

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 Dublin or Toulon Better for Students?

Dublin is very good for students. However, Toulon is not popular with students.

Dublin is a good city to visit for students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Toulon is not popular with students.

Is Dublin 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 Dublin and Toulon.

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

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 Dublin or Toulon a more walkable city?

Dublin is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Dublin on foot. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

Toulon is a very walkable city. 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 Dublin Worth Visiting? and Is Toulon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Toulon?

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

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

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

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

One day in Dublin or Toulon?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Dublin or Toulon?

Dublin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. 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 Dublin or Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. 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 Dublin or Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the laid-back destination of Dublin. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Toulon?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Toulon. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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 Dublin 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 Dublin or Toulon in the Summer?

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

In July, Dublin is generally much colder than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 16°C (60°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives more rain than Toulon. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dublin or Toulon in the Autumn?

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

Dublin is cooler than Toulon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Toulon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon and Dublin 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 Dublin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Dublin is cooler than Toulon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dublin in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Toulon averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during winter. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dublin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulon. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dublin or Toulon in the Spring?

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

In April, Dublin is generally much colder than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 8°C (47°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Toulon. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Dublin