A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Aix-en-Provence. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a picturesque, stunning, and diverse island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant, laid-back, and relaxing town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aix-en-Provence than Isle of Skye, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aix-en-Provence is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Isle of Skye is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Aix-en-Provence is well known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. Also, Aix-en-Provence is famous for .

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Aix-en-Provence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Is Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Aix-en-Provence. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Isle of Skye. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Isle of Skye is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Isle of Skye draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is terrific for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Aix-en-Provence. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

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 Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Isle of Skye and Aix-en-Provence both great destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Isle of Skye is well known for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Isle of Skye is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Many students visit Aix-en-Provence. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.


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

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Aix-en-Provence has some public transit options. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

The scenic destination of Isle of Skye offers food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Aix-en-Provence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

The island of Isle of Skye offers 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a fun place to experience. 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.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Aix-en-Provence. 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.

A week in Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place to visit. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is £118. 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 Isle of Skye and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Aix-en-Provence £69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Aix-en-Provence £138
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Aix-en-Provence £28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

Also for Isle of Skye, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Aix-en-Provence £28

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
    £40

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.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Aix-en-Provence £19

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese - From Aix: $82
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • 2H: Wine-Tour in Provence: $274
  • 4-Hour Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence: $87
  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese: $80
  • Aix-en-Provence Walking Food and Culture Tour - 3 hour private tour: $131
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Arles & Camargue National Park Private Tour: $1,016
  • Arles, Baux, & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Tour: $1,016
  • Avignon Tour & Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting: $1,048
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Aix-en-Provence £12

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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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.


When is the best time to visit Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Aix-en-Provence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Aix-en-Provence. The winter months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

The weather in Isle of Skye can be very cold. In the winter, Isle of Skye is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)