A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inverness vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Inverness or Arles?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Arles can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a local, historic, and cultural city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Inverness and Arles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Inverness or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arles. Although Inverness and Arles are both popular with visitors, Arles has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arles is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Inverness is known for its shopping and small town charm. Inverness is more touristy than Arles and is known for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also home to L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Inverness different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inverness or Arles?

Inverness
Arles

Arles is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Arles are among the most recognizable in the world. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Inverness can be an interesting and educational experience. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.


Is the Food Better in Inverness or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Inverness
Arles

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Inverness and Arles.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Arles has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Inverness or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Arles

Both Inverness and Arles are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Inverness or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Inverness
Arles

Arles is terrific for its old town. However, Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Arles has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Arles?

Inverness
Arles

Inverness is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Inverness. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Inverness or Arles Better for Families?

Inverness
Arles

Inverness is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Inverness. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Inverness or Arles Better for Couples?

Inverness
Arles

Arles is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Arles is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.


Is Inverness or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Inverness
Arles

Arles is very good for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Arles has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

Is Inverness or Arles a more walkable city?

Inverness
Arles

Inverness and Arles both are very good when exploring on foot.

Inverness is a very walkable city. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

Arles is a very walkable destination. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Inverness Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Arles?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arles than Inverness 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 Arles.


  • How many days in Inverness or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Inverness or Arles?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Arles. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Inverness or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Inverness. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Inverness or Arles?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming town of Arles. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Inverness or Arles?

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

Arles is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Inverness?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inverness is £168, while the average daily cost in Arles is £121. 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 Inverness and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inverness £91
    Arles £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inverness £182
    Arles £122
Compare Hotels in Inverness and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Inverness or Arles? 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 Inverness


Hotels in Arles


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: Inverness Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Arles £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Inverness or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Inverness 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
    Inverness £49
    Arles £44

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    £3.85
  • Ice Cream
    £0.86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Inverness £44
    Arles £26

Tours and Activities in Inverness

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Inverness are as follows:

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • SEA LIFE Loch Lomond General Admission Ticket: $20
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    £4.71

Tours and Activities in Arles

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

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inverness £23
    Arles £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

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

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


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

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


Which is Bigger, Inverness or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Inverness. When comparing the sizes of Inverness and Arles, 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 Inverness or Arles?

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 Inverness or Arles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Inverness and Arles. The summer months attract visitors to Inverness because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

In the summer, Inverness is much colder than Arles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Inverness in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Arles averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Inverness usually receives more rain than Arles. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Inverness 14°C (58°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Inverness as well as Arles. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Inverness this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Inverness is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 9°C (49°F), and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Arles. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Arles. Inverness usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Inverness 9°C (49°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Inverness are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Inverness for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Inverness. Inverness is much colder than Arles in the winter. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Inverness usually receives less rain than Arles. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Inverness 3°C (38°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Inverness during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Inverness in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Arles for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Inverness is much colder than Arles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Inverness in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Arles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Arles. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Inverness 7°C (44°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Inverness

Inverness Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)