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

Should you visit Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a active, nature-focused, and coastal city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant, laid-back, and relaxing town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Helsinki 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
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Aix-en-Provence than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Aix-en-Provence, Aix-en-Provence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its food and shopping, while Helsinki is known for its museums, nightlife, and impressive beauty. Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. It is also home to .

How is Helsinki 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 Helsinki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Helsinki 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 Helsinki can be an interesting and educational experience. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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 Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

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

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Helsinki is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

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 Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence?

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Aix-en-Provence draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.


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

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Helsinki is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Helsinki is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

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

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Couples visit Aix-en-Provence frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Helsinki and Aix-en-Provence are both good destinations for backpackers.

Helsinki is a good city to visit for backpackers. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

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


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

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Both Helsinki and Aix-en-Provence are high quality destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

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

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Helsinki is well known for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Helsinki can get you to most places easily. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

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

Helsinki
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.


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

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

How long in Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence. In our opinion, Helsinki has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Helsinki than Aix-en-Provence. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


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

One day in Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence?

The nature-focused destination of Helsinki offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Aix-en-Provence offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence?

The city of Helsinki 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aix-en-Provence, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence?

Helsinki 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Helsinki. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Helsinki is €139, 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 Helsinki and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Helsinki 73
    Aix-en-Provence 81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Helsinki 146
    Aix-en-Provence 162
Compare Hotels in Helsinki and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Helsinki 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 Helsinki


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: Helsinki Hotel Prices and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Helsinki 22
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Helsinki

Also for Helsinki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Private Transfer Helsinki City to Helsinki Airport HEL by business car: $64
  • Departure Transfer: Helsinki to Airport HEL in Business Car: $97
  • Guided Tallinn Day Tour from Helsinki / Include hotel transfers: $218
  • Helsinki Airport (HEL) to Helsinki West Terminal - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • Helsinki Airport (HEL): One-Way Transfer to/from Helsinki: $144
  • Helsinki Airport (HEL): Transfer to Helsinki Cruise Terminal: $129
  • Helsinki Airport VIP Transfers: Exclusive Comfort&Efficiency: $134
  • Helsinki City hotels to Helsinki Airport (HEL) Departure Transfer: $41
  • Helsinki Private Airport & City Transfer: $82
  • Helsinki Private Transfer: $158
  • Helsinki Private Transfer from Helsinki city centre to Helsinki airport: $98
  • Helsinki Stopover Tour with Round-Trip Airport Transfers: $139

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Helsinki 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
    Helsinki 34
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Helsinki

For Helsinki, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • FOOD Tour with Rooftop Bar Visit in Helsinki: $106
  • FOOD Tour with Roof Top Bar in Helsinki: $108
  • Helsinki Food Tour Including Tastings: $164

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.
    Helsinki 27
    Aix-en-Provence 22

Tours and Activities in Helsinki

For Helsinki, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tip-Based City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Tip-based Free Walking Tour Helsinki - RED UMBRELLA TOURS: $5.13
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Helsinki Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $6.95
  • Temppeliaukio Church Entrance Ticket: $8.56
  • From Round-Trip Ferry Ticket to Suomenlinna: $8.64
  • Suomenlinna: Museum Ticket: $9.62
  • Historical Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • 4D Flying Cinema Tour of Helsinki Tickets: $14
  • Self-Guided City Highlights Audio Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

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

  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese - From Aix: $82
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • 2H: Wine-Tour in Provence: $274
  • 4-Hour Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence: $87
  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese: $80
  • Aix-en-Provence Walking Food and Culture Tour - 3 hour private tour: $131
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Arles & Camargue National Park Private Tour: $1,016
  • Arles, Baux, & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Tour: $1,016
  • Avignon Tour & Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting: $1,048
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Helsinki 16
    Aix-en-Provence 14

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 comparing the travel costs between Helsinki and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Helsinki 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 Helsinki Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.


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

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Helsinki or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Helsinki during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Helsinki is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Helsinki. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Helsinki 17°C (62°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Aix-en-Provence. The autumn months attract visitors to Helsinki because of 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 Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In October, Helsinki is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Helsinki 6°C (42°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Aix-en-Provence. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the winter. Helsinki is much colder than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Helsinki -6°C (21°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the spring for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Helsinki 3°C (37°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Helsinki

Helsinki Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -6°C (21°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb -7°C (20°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar -3°C (27°F) 34 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 3°C (37°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 11°C (51°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 6°C (42°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec -4°C (26°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)