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

Should you visit Howth or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Should I visit Howth or Aix-en-Provence? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Howth

Howth is a beautiful, picturesque, and scenic fishing village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include hiking, museums, and food.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a laid-back, relaxing, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Howth and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Howth. Although Howth and Aix-en-Provence are both popular with visitors, Howth has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Howth is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Howth is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. It is also home to The Baily Lighthouse. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

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

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

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Howth and Aix-en-Provence.

Howth offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Aix-en-Provence. 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 Howth or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Aix-en-Provence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

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

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Howth and Aix-en-Provence.

Howth is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

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 Howth or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Howth is well known for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Howth. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.


Is Howth or Aix-en-Provence Better for Hiking?

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Howth is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

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

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Aix-en-Provence make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Howth 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 Howth. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

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 Howth or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Howth is a good fishing village for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

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

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.

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

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is well known for students. However, Howth is not popular with students.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Howth is not popular with students.


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

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Howth and Aix-en-Provence.

You'll find some public transit in Howth, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

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 Howth or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Howth
Aix-en-Provence

Howth and Aix-en-Provence both are very good when exploring on foot.

Howth is a very walkable fishing village. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

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

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

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

How long in Howth or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Howth 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, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Howth, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Howth. 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 Howth 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 Howth or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Howth 1-2 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Howth or Aix-en-Provence?

The picturesque destination of Howth offers food and museums. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. 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.


A weekend in Howth or Aix-en-Provence?

The fishing village of Howth offers museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. 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 Howth or Aix-en-Provence?

Howth is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This fishing village offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

A week in Howth or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Howth. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing destination of Aix-en-Provence. 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers 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 Howth?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Howth is €135, 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 Howth and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Howth 64
    Aix-en-Provence 81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Howth 128
    Aix-en-Provence 162
Compare Hotels in Howth and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Howth 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 Howth


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: Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Howth 41
    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
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118

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

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Howth 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
    Howth 44
    Aix-en-Provence 33

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.
    Howth 25
    Aix-en-Provence 22

Tours and Activities in Howth

Here are a few actual costs in Howth for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Dublin: Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour: $52

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
    Howth 21
    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 Howth and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Aix-en-Provence 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 Howth Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Howth 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 Howth or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Howth are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Howth for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Howth is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Howth in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Howth usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during summer. Howth gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Howth usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Howth gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Howth during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Howth in the autumn for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Howth is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Howth average around 11°C (52°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Howth often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Howth gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets less rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Howth gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Howth and Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Howth is cooler than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Howth usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during winter. Howth gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Howth usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Howth gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Howth 6°C (42°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Howth as well as Aix-en-Provence. The spring months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches and the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In the spring, Howth is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Howth in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the spring, Howth often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Howth gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Aix-en-Provence. Howth gets 51 mm (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
    Howth 8°C (47°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Howth

Howth Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)