A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Howth vs. La Rochelle for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Beaches

Should you visit Howth or La Rochelle?

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

Should I visit Howth or La Rochelle? 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 peaceful, coastal, and beautiful fishing village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a laid-back, quaint, and charming coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Howth and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Howth or La Rochelle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in La Rochelle than Howth, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. La Rochelle is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Howth is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Howth is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. La Rochelle is well known for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. Also, La Rochelle is famous for The Old Port.

How is Howth different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle?

La Rochelle is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

La Rochelle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Howth. 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.

Is the Food Better in Howth or La Rochelle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal 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, La Rochelle is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

La Rochelle is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

La Rochelle has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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.

Is Howth or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

Howth is great for the beache. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the beach.

Howth is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Is Howth or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for its old town. However, Howth does not have a historic old town.

La Rochelle offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Howth does not have a historic old town.

Is Howth or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

Howth is great for hiking. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Howth for the hiking trails. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Is the Shopping Better in Howth or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

La Rochelle offers some nice shopping areas. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Howth or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Howth or La Rochelle.

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.

La Rochelle offers lots of family activities. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Howth or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

La Rochelle makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Rochelle is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit La Rochelle. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

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 La Rochelle Better for Students?

La Rochelle is a popular place for students. However, Howth is not popular with students.

La Rochelle is popular with students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Howth is not popular with students.

Is Howth or La Rochelle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Howth and La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Is Howth or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Howth and La Rochelle both are high quality 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.

La Rochelle is a very walkable destination. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Howth Worth Visiting? and Is La Rochelle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Howth?

How long in Howth or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Howth or La Rochelle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.

One day in Howth or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the peaceful fishing village of Howth. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this fishing village has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though La Rochelle is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This coastal 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the scenic destination of Howth. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This fishing village offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Five days in Howth or La Rochelle?

The picturesque fishing village of Howth offers food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

La Rochelle is a fun place to experience. La Rochelle is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Howth or La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Howth. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

La Rochelle is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Howth or La Rochelle?

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 Howth or La Rochelle in the Summer?

Both La Rochelle and Howth during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

Howth is cooler than La Rochelle in the summer. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

In La Rochelle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Howth often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Howth gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets more rain in July than La Rochelle. Howth gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Howth or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Howth and La Rochelle. The hiking trails and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Howth this time of year. Also, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Howth is cooler than La Rochelle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Howth in October average around 11°C (52°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Howth usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Howth gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Howth usually receives around the same amount of rain as La Rochelle. Howth gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Howth or La Rochelle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Howth as well as La Rochelle. Many travelers come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to La Rochelle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Howth is generally cooler than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Howth average around 6°C (42°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Howth often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Howth gets 56 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Howth usually gets less rain in January than La Rochelle. Howth gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Howth or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle and Howth are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Howth in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to La Rochelle for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

Howth is cooler than La Rochelle in the spring. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Howth usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during spring. Howth gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Howth usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Howth gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Howth