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

Should you visit Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a quaint, picturesque, and colorful seaside town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kinsale. Although Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence are both popular with visitors, Kinsale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kinsale is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its shopping. Kinsale is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. It is also home to Charles Fort. 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 Kinsale 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 Kinsale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence.

Kinsale offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the colorful old town, you can check out Charles Fort, James Fort, and Old Head Signal Tower. The town is filled with history and many unique landmarks that are worth exploring.

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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence can be difficult as they are each first-rate in their own way.

Many restaurants in Kinsale have been singled out for their culinary prowess. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

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.

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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

The vibe at night is decent in both Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence.

Kinsale doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

Most people don't head to Aix-en-Provence specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Kinsale is a seaside town with a few options for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

The beach in Kinsale is worth checking out. You'll find a number of beaches within about 20 minutes of town. The closest is Kinsale Beach, which is about 3 kilometers from the center of town. For a more peaceful setting, head out of town and check out Sandycove Beach, Garrylucas Blue Flag Beach, and Coolmain Beach.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.


Is Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Kinsale is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with brightly colored houses, and it offers a unique setting that's different from many of Europe's more standard old towns.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

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

Kinsale has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Aix-en-Provence draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to go shopping. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.


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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Kinsale 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 Kinsale. If your kids need a break from the tourist circuit, there are a couple of playgrounds and outdoor centers around town. There's also one hour pony treks available at the Kinsale Equestrian Centre.

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 Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is great for its romantic activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for couples.

Aix-en-Provence is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Kinsale is a good seaside town for couples to visit. From coastal walks to quaint streets, there are many picturesque places that a couple can explore. The town also has an impressive restaurant scene where couples can enjoy a great meal.

Is Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

For backpackers, both Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence are good places to visit.

Kinsale is a good seaside town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.

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


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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

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

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.

Is Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Kinsale
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town 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.

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable seaside town. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.


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

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

How long in Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Kinsale. 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 Kinsale 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 Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kinsale 1-2 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence?

Kinsale is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence?

Kinsale might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aix-en-Provence has to offer.

Five days in Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence?

Kinsale is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This seaside town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence?

Since Kinsale is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Aix-en-Provence. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Kinsale?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kinsale is €129, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is €138. 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 Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kinsale 74
    Aix-en-Provence 81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kinsale 148
    Aix-en-Provence 162
Compare Hotels in Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Kinsale 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 Kinsale


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: Kinsale Hotel Prices and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kinsale 17
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Kinsale 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
    Kinsale 46
    Aix-en-Provence 33

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
    47

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.
    Kinsale 5.00
    Aix-en-Provence 22

Tours and Activities in Kinsale

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kinsale.

  • Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour Cobh: $21
  • Visit 16 Sites Key Historical Sites And Experience Cobh Rebel Tours: $27
  • Cobh Evening Ghost Tour: $43

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
    Kinsale 16
    Aix-en-Provence 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Kinsale

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

  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Cork: Blarney Castle & Jameson Distillery: $147

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 Kinsale 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 Kinsale Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.


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

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Kinsale 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 Kinsale 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 Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kinsale as well as Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Kinsale for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kinsale is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kinsale in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the summer, Kinsale often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Kinsale gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Kinsale usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Kinsale gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kinsale 16°C (60°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Kinsale are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Kinsale because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In October, Kinsale is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Kinsale average around 11°C (52°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Kinsale usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Kinsale gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kinsale usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Kinsale gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kinsale 11°C (52°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Kinsale during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kinsale is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Kinsale averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Kinsale often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Kinsale gets 60 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kinsale. Kinsale usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Kinsale gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kinsale 6°C (43°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Kinsale or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kinsale and Aix-en-Provence. Many travelers come to Kinsale for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kinsale is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kinsale in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Kinsale usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Kinsale gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kinsale usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Kinsale gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kinsale 9°C (48°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Kinsale

Kinsale Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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