A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Howth vs. Saint-Tropez for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Howth or Saint-Tropez?

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

Should I visit Howth or Saint-Tropez? 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. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a extravagant, luxurious, and glamourous resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Howth and Saint-Tropez: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Howth or Saint-Tropez?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint-Tropez than Howth, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint-Tropez is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Howth is more popular for its museums, hiking, and small town charm. Howth is well known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. Saint-Tropez is well known for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. Also, Saint-Tropez is famous for The Old Port.

The Old Port
The Old Port

How is Howth different from Saint-Tropez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Howth is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Howth or Saint-Tropez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Howth and Saint-Tropez can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Howth. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Howth or Saint-Tropez Better for Nightlife?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Saint-Tropez has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Resorts?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its resorts. However, Howth is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Saint-Tropez is a great choice. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

Howth is not a resort destination.


Is Howth or Saint-Tropez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Howth is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Saint-Tropez a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Howth is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Howth or Saint-Tropez Better for Beaches?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Howth and Saint-Tropez are high quality choices.

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.

Saint-Tropez is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Is Howth or Saint-Tropez Better for Hiking?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Howth is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Saint-Tropez 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.

Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Howth or Saint-Tropez?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Saint-Tropez make it a world-class shopping destination. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Howth or Saint-Tropez Better for Families?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Saint-Tropez is a very family-friendly destination. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

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

Is Howth or Saint-Tropez Better for Couples?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Saint-Tropez makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Saint-Tropez. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Howth and Saint-Tropez.

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 Saint-Tropez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

Is Howth or Saint-Tropez a more walkable city?

Howth
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Saint-Tropez on foot is easy. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

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


For even more information, also check out Is Howth Worth Visiting? and Is Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint-Tropez or Howth?

How long in Howth or Saint-Tropez?

It's fun to spend time in either Howth or Saint-Tropez. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez.


  • How many days in Howth or Saint-Tropez? Ideal Length of Stay
    Howth 1-2 
    Saint-Tropez 2-4

One day in Howth or Saint-Tropez?

In Howth, many people enjoy the museums and food that this picturesque fishing village offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this fishing village.

In Saint-Tropez, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this opulent destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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 Saint-Tropez?

Howth is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Tropez. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Saint-Tropez?

You'll find museums and food around the picturesque destination of Howth. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Saint-Tropez is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Saint-Tropez. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Howth or Saint-Tropez?

Howth is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the glamourous destination of Saint-Tropez. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez is €148. 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 Saint-Tropez in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Howth 64
    Saint-Tropez 86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Howth 128
    Saint-Tropez 172
Compare Hotels in Howth and Saint-Tropez

Looking for a hotel in Howth or Saint-Tropez? 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 Saint-Tropez


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: Saint-Tropez Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Howth 41
    Saint-Tropez 34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint-Tropez

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Saint-Tropez:

  • Private Direct Transfer From Saint Tropez to Marseille: $184
  • Private Direct Transfer From Saint Tropez to Nice: $268
  • Private Transfer From Saint Tropez To Nice, 2 Hour Stop in Cannes: $290
  • Private Transfer from Nice to St Tropez: $305
  • Private Transfer from Nice to St Tropez: $310
  • Private transfer from St Tropez to Nice: $305
  • Private transfer from St Tropez to Nice: $321
  • Santorini Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Santorini: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Howth or Saint-Tropez?

Prices for flights to both Saint-Tropez 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
    Saint-Tropez 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint-Tropez

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Saint-Tropez.

  • Saint Tropez : Food tour and highlights: $118
  • Saint Tropez unical food tour !: $120

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Howth 25
    Saint-Tropez 26

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 Saint-Tropez

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

  • Guided walking tour of Saint Tropez: $26
  • Kayak Experience in Ramatuelle Reserve: $41
  • FREJUS - ACTIVITY and ADVENTURE in Survival Techniques KATALANTA: $49
  • Saint Tropez: Half-Day Coastline Catamaran Sailing Tour: $59
  • Ramatuelle: Tracks & Tasting Winery Tour by Mountain E-Bike: $80
  • Saint Tropez : Netflix Emily in Paris Tour: $102
  • From BB to Emily in Paris: the beauties' tour of Saint Tropez: $104
  • Saint Tropez : Private Walking tour with a Tropezienne guide: $128
  • St Tropez and Port Grimaud Full Day Sightseeing Tour: $131
  • From Cannes: St Tropez & Port Grimaud Sightseeing Tour: $134
  • From Nice: St Tropez & Port Grimaud Full Day Tour: $134
  • Saint Tropez : tour and sweet tasting: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Howth 21
    Saint-Tropez 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint-Tropez

Also in Saint-Tropez, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Horse riding in the vineyards of Grimaud + wine tasting: $86
  • Horse back riding + wine tasting in Ramatuelle: $95
  • Small group wine tour from Saint-Tropez: $117
  • Provence Day, Saint Tropez Grimaud village Wine tasting: $118
  • Small group wine tour in the vineyards of the Gulf of St-Tropez: $119
  • Private 1/2 day wine tour St-Tropez: $141
  • Private wine tour in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: $250
  • Vintage wine tour in Saint-Tropez: $631


When comparing the travel costs between Howth and Saint-Tropez, we can see that Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Howth or Saint-Tropez?

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 Saint-Tropez in the Summer?

Both Saint-Tropez and Howth are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint-Tropez this time of year.

Howth is cooler than Saint-Tropez in the summer. The daily temperature in Howth averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

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

In July, Howth usually receives more rain than Saint-Tropez. Howth gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Howth 16°C (60°F) 
    Saint-Tropez 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Howth or Saint-Tropez in the Autumn?

Both Saint-Tropez and Howth during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Howth this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Saint-Tropez for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Howth is much colder than Saint-Tropez. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Howth in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Saint-Tropez averages at about 17°C (63°F).

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

Saint-Tropez gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Howth usually gets less rain in October than Saint-Tropez. Howth gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Howth 11°C (52°F) 
    Saint-Tropez 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Howth or Saint-Tropez in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Howth and Saint-Tropez. Many travelers come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Tropez in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Howth is generally much colder than Saint-Tropez. Daily temperatures in Howth average around 6°C (42°F), and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

In January, Howth usually receives less rain than Saint-Tropez. Howth gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Howth 6°C (42°F) 
    Saint-Tropez 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Howth or Saint-Tropez in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Howth as well as Saint-Tropez. Many visitors come to Howth in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Additionally, most visitors come to Saint-Tropez for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

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

Howth usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Tropez. Howth gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Howth 8°C (47°F) 
    Saint-Tropez 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Tropez and Howth

Howth Saint-Tropez
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)


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