A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koblenz vs. Arles for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Koblenz or Arles?

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 Koblenz and Arles. 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.

Koblenz

Koblenz is a dynamic, accessible, and historic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic 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 nightlife.

Koblenz and Arles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less family-friendly
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 Koblenz or Arles?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Arles than Koblenz. While Koblenz is larger than Arles, Arles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Arles is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Koblenz is known for its small town charm. Koblenz is more touristy than Arles and is known for its location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, its popularity with river cruises, and its many nearby vineyards. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also home to L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Koblenz different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Koblenz
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Koblenz. Most visitors head to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which can be reached by chairlift. Also make sure you visit the Forum Confluentes, the State Museum, the Romanticum, and the Koblenz Sparkling Wine Museum.


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

Koblenz
Arles

Arles is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Koblenz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is large enough to have a diversity of restaurants that serve everything from local German specialties to other European dishes. If you want to enjoy some regional cuisine, try the Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Döppekooche (potato cakes), or locally brewed beer.

Is Koblenz or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Koblenz
Arles

Arles is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koblenz is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Arles has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Koblenz doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a smaller city, but there are still pubs around town that attract a crowd. Enjoy the local beer and chat with the locals on a relaxing night out.

Is Koblenz or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Koblenz
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its old town. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Arles offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Koblenz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is fun to explore with its beautiful churches and quaint ice cream shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Koblenz or Arles?

Koblenz
Arles

Shopping is a popular activity in both Arles and Koblenz.

Koblenz offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of clothing shops in the old town where you can find a deal or splurge on a new outfit.

Arles has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Koblenz or Arles Better for Families?

Koblenz
Arles

Most people don't think of either Koblenz or Arles as a family destination.

Koblenz doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kids will enjoy the chairlift across the river that leads to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. It's also fun to take a stroll along the river, grab ice cream in old town, and play at one of the parks around town.

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 Koblenz or Arles Better for Couples?

Koblenz
Arles

Koblenz and Arles both high quality destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Koblenz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Seeped in romantic walks and historic buildings, couples will enjoy visiting this beautiful German town. Sip Reisling at one of the many restaurants or wander through the quaint old town.

Arles is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.


Is Koblenz or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koblenz
Arles

Koblenz is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koblenz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few affordable accommodation options around town. Food is reasonably priced as well so backpackers can enjoy a visit without breaking the bank.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

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

Koblenz
Arles

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Koblenz and Arles.

You'll find some public transit in Koblenz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel the major routes around town. There's also a cable car that takes you up to the fortress.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Koblenz or Arles a more walkable city?

Koblenz
Arles

Arles is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Koblenz is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay in the old town, you'll have no trouble walking around, but the train station is a good distance from the old town.


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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Koblenz?

How long in Koblenz or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koblenz or Arles to fill your time. In our opinion, Arles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Arles than Koblenz. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Arles than Koblenz. 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 Koblenz 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 Koblenz or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koblenz 1-2 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Koblenz or Arles?

In Koblenz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming 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.

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Koblenz or Arles?

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

In Arles, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

Five days in Koblenz or Arles?

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

Arles is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Koblenz or Arles?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Koblenz. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Koblenz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Koblenz is €124, while the average daily cost in Arles is €142. 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 Koblenz and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koblenz 67
    Arles 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koblenz 134
    Arles 142
Compare Hotels in Koblenz and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Koblenz 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 Koblenz


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: Koblenz Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koblenz 42
    Arles 23

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 Koblenz or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Koblenz 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
    Koblenz 28
    Arles 52

Typical Food Prices in Arles

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


  • Cooked Clams
    4.50
  • Ice Cream
    1.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koblenz 30
    Arles 31

Tours and Activities in Koblenz

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

  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Old Town Sightseeing Cruise along the Rhine: $15
  • Cochem 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise: $15
  • Sightseeing Shippingtour around Koblenz: $16
  • Rhine Valley Castles and Palaces Boat Tour: $19
  • Panoramic Cruise on Moselle River to Winningen: $20
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Rhine: $20
  • Historical Sparkling Wine Museum Guided Tour: $20
  • Christmas Boat Tour with Mulled Wine: $21
  • Cochem Evening Panorama Cruise : $27
  • Private city tour VW Bulli meets mining museum in Bochum: $71

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
    5.50

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
    Koblenz 7.79
    Arles 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Koblenz

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

  • Private wine tasting meets Bulli in the Ruhr area: $75

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 comparing the travel costs between Koblenz and Arles, we can see that Arles 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 Koblenz Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Koblenz or Arles?

Koblenz has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Koblenz 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 Koblenz 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 Koblenz or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Koblenz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Koblenz for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koblenz is cooler than Arles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koblenz in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Arles averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. Koblenz usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Koblenz gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Koblenz usually receives more rain than Arles. Koblenz gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Koblenz 19°C (66°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Koblenz or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Koblenz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Koblenz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Koblenz is generally cooler than Arles. Daily temperatures in Koblenz average around 12°C (53°F), and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Koblenz often gets less sunshine than Arles. Koblenz gets 109 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Koblenz usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Koblenz gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Koblenz 12°C (53°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Koblenz or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koblenz and Arles. Most visitors come to Koblenz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Arles because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Koblenz can be very cold during winter. Koblenz is much colder than Arles in the winter. The daily temperature in Koblenz averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Koblenz usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Koblenz gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Koblenz usually receives less rain than Arles. Koblenz gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Koblenz 3°C (37°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Koblenz or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koblenz as well as Arles. The spring months attract visitors to Koblenz because of the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

In the spring, Koblenz is cooler than Arles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koblenz in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Arles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. In the spring, Koblenz often gets less sunshine than Arles. Koblenz gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Koblenz usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Koblenz gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Koblenz 10°C (50°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Koblenz

Koblenz Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)