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

Should you visit Ghent or Toulon?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Ghent and Toulon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Ghent and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Toulon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ghent than Toulon. While Toulon is larger than Ghent, Ghent has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ghent is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Toulon is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Ghent is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also home to The Fortress of Gravensteen. Toulon is popular for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Ghent different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ghent 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 Ghent specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent or Toulon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ghent is a well-known 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Ghent 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 Ghent is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a moderate port city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option 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.

Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ghent or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Toulon is a good destination for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Toulon offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Ghent or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Ghent 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 Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

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 Ghent or Toulon?

Both Ghent and Toulon are high quality shopping destinations.

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Toulon is well-known for its shopping. 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 Ghent or Toulon Better for Families?

Both Ghent and Toulon are good family-friendly destinations.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

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 Ghent or Toulon Better for Couples?

Ghent 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.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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 Ghent or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ghent and Toulon are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Ghent or Toulon Better for Students?

Ghent is an unbeatable place for students. However, Toulon is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Toulon is not popular with students.

Is Ghent or Toulon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ghent is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Ghent can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Ghent or Toulon a more walkable city?

Ghent and Toulon both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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 Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Toulon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Toulon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ghent or Toulon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ghent than Toulon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ghent, and 1-2 days is enough time in Toulon.

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

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

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

One day in Ghent or Toulon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Toulon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this industrial destination offers. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Ghent or Toulon?

Ghent 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Toulon. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Ghent or Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Toulon is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Toulon. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Ghent or Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the youthful destination of Ghent. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the off-the-beaten-path destination of Toulon. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between Ghent and Toulon, we can see that Toulon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Toulon in the Summer?

Both Toulon and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Toulon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ghent is cooler than Toulon in the summer. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ghent. Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives more rain than Toulon. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ghent or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon and Ghent during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Ghent is cooler than Toulon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ghent in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Toulon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Toulon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Toulon. Most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Toulon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ghent can be very cold during winter. In January, Ghent is generally much colder than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 3°C (38°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives less rain than Toulon. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ghent or Toulon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Toulon. The spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

Ghent is much colder than Toulon in the spring. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. In the spring, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in April than Toulon. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Ghent