A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. La Rochelle for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Isle of Skye or La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle. 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 dramatic, scenic, and picturesque island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a relaxing, laid-back, and quaint coastal town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or La Rochelle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Rochelle. Although Isle of Skye and La Rochelle are popular destinations, La Rochelle has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Rochelle is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than La Rochelle and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. La Rochelle is famous for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for The Old Port.

How is Isle of Skye different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Rochelle is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around La Rochelle. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or La Rochelle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

La Rochelle is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

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

Isle of Skye is considered a top beach destination. 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.

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 Isle of Skye or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

La Rochelle is terrific for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

La Rochelle has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is very popular for hiking. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

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 Isle of Skye or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle is a good destination for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in La Rochelle. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Both Isle of Skye and La Rochelle are nice family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in La Rochelle. 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 Isle of Skye or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

La Rochelle is terrific for romance. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

La Rochelle is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Isle of Skye or La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Isle of Skye or La Rochelle Better for Students?

La Rochelle is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle has some public transit options. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

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 La Rochelle a more walkable city?

La Rochelle is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Isle of Skye or La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle.

Families should spend more time in La Rochelle than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 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 La Rochelle.

One day in Isle of Skye or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the picturesque island of Isle of Skye. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the scenic destination of Isle of Skye. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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.

La Rochelle is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the scenic island of Isle of Skye. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

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. 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

La Rochelle is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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, 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 Isle of Skye and La Rochelle, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is La Rochelle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or La Rochelle?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 Isle of Skye or La Rochelle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and La Rochelle. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to La Rochelle for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is much colder than La Rochelle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 20°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Rochelle this time of the year. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as La Rochelle. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to La Rochelle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than La Rochelle. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or La Rochelle in the Winter?

Both La Rochelle and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to La Rochelle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Isle of Skye can get quite cold in the winter. Isle of Skye is much colder than La Rochelle in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than La Rochelle. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is much colder than La Rochelle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in April than La Rochelle. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Isle of Skye