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

Should you visit Ios or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Should I visit Ios 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.

Ios

Ios is a touristy, backpacker-friendly, and historical island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a historic, vibrant, and laid-back 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.

Ios and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ios. Although Ios and Aix-en-Provence are both popular with visitors, Ios has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ios is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its food and shopping. Ios is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is known for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. It is also home to Skarkos Archeological Site. 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 Ios 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 Ios. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

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

Ios offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. If you can pull yourself away from the beaches or parties, there are a number of archaeological and historic sights around the island. Churches like Panayia Gremiotissa Church and Evangelisimos Cathedral are worth visiting. Other attractions include Odysseas Elytis Theatre, Homer’s Tomb, and Skarkos Hill.

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

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Ios has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Most of the island's restaurants are found in the port area or in the town of Chora, but you'll also find several options near Mylopotas Beach. Most restaurants offer typical Greek dishes, but they often have a local twist. You'll often find local cheeses or a slightly different take on an old favorite. Popular ingredients include cheese, yogurt, fish, olives, honey, olive oil, and grains. Common meats include lamb, beef, and even rabbit, but seafood is obviously popular as well.

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

Ios is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Ios is a must-see party destination. This is one of the quintessential party islands in Greece. Many young backpackers come here just to party, particularly during the summer months. You'll find many parties start around midnight or later and carry on well into the morning. Most of the clubs and bars are around the main square and nearby streets in Chora, but there are also clubs spread throughout the town. Outside of town, Mylopotas Beach is another popular party area.

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 Ios or Aix-en-Provence Better for Resorts?

Ios is well known for its resorts. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a resort destination.

Ios is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of resort areas around the island with families preferring the areas around Yialos Beach and Manganari Beach. Partiers usually head to Chora and the great beaches near Mylopotas, but if you want to escape the crowds, head to Agia Theodoti.

Aix-en-Provence is not a resort destination.

Is Ios or Aix-en-Provence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Ios has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

Aix-en-Provence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ios or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Ios is terrific for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Ios are among the best in the world. The island has beautiful sandy beaches that range from family-friendly to party hard. There are popular and more developed beaches near Chora like Koumbara and Mylopotas as well as more relaxing beaches a little more removed like Kalamos and Manganari. Because of their striking beauty, the beaches around the island have been featured in a few films.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

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

Ios is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

Ios has hiking trails worth exploring. The island has a barren and rocky landscape that offers spectacular views. Many of the hikes are quite challenging, but there are a few options for beginners as well. Many also pass by the spectacular ruins around the island.

Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

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

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

Ios has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of local souvenirs that you can pick up. Many visitors prefer to take home unique items such as a tin of olives or olive oil. Jewelry, honey, and local ceramics also make good gifts.

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

Most people don't think of either Ios or Aix-en-Provence as a family destination.

Ios is not the most family-friendly destination. While the island is known as one of the top party destinations in Greece, it also has a more cultural side. There are impressive archaeological ruins and stunning beaches that kids will enjoy. The island also has snorkeling and plenty of kid-friendly food. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are in Manganari Bay and Yialos Beach is a nice family-friendly area.

Aix-en-Provence is not always a place people visit with their families. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Ios or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ios and Aix-en-Provence make for a very good place to visit.

Ios is a very popular place to visit for couples. Because it's so close to Santorini, many people visit as a day trip. While the island is synonymous with partying, there are still many world-class archaeological sites and romantic beaches that make for an active and fun honeymoon. It's a bit quieter outside of the peak summer months.

Aix-en-Provence makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Ios or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios is terrific for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ios is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. For many backpackers, partying in Ios is a quintessential European experience. Nights are spent at all night clubs or beach raves, while days are spent nursing a hangover on the beach. There are plenty of venues that cater to the budget crowd, with cheap food available at different places.

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

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

Aix-en-Provence is notable for students. However, Ios 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.

Ios is not popular with students.

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

Ios 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 Ios can get you to most places easily. There are public buses that travel to most of the tourist sights around the island including several of the more remote beaches like Manganari and Agia Theodoti.

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

Aix-en-Provence is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit 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.

Ios is a somewhat walkable island. Chora is the most walkable part of the island.

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

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

How long in Ios or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Ios 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, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ios, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ios than Aix-en-Provence. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ios that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ios than Aix-en-Provence 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 Ios.

One day in Ios or Aix-en-Provence?

The party-oriented destination of Ios offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With shopping and museums around the vibrant destination of Aix-en-Provence, there's plenty to do. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Ios or Aix-en-Provence?

The island of Ios offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Many people visit Aix-en-Provence for a weekend. With museums and food around the laid-back town of Aix-en-Provence, there's plenty to do. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or Aix-en-Provence?

Ios is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The destination of Aix-en-Provence offers food and shopping. It offers something for everyone. 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.

A week in Ios or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ios. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ios Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

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

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios 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.