A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Nice for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

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 Kuala Lumpur and Nice. 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.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a historic, modern, and welcoming city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Nice

Nice is a glamourous, beautiful, and opulent seaside destination. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kuala Lumpur and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kuala Lumpur than Nice. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kuala Lumpur is very popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Nice attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Kuala Lumpur and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Kuala Lumpur is famous for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. It is also well known for The Petronas Twin Towers.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Kuala Lumpur are among the most recognizable in the world. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or Nice? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Kuala Lumpur and Nice both to be fantastic destinations.

Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

For foodies, Nice is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Nightlife?

Nice is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Nice just to party. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Resorts?

Nice is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Nice for its luxury resorts. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Kuala Lumpur is not a resort destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Kuala Lumpur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Beaches?

Nice is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Nice for it's beautiful beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Nice is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Kuala Lumpur does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Kuala Lumpur make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Families?

Kuala Lumpur is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Kuala Lumpur is a very kid-friendly city. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Nice is a family-friendly city. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Couples?

Nice is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Nice is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

Couples visit Kuala Lumpur frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular city for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Nice is not popular with students.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its public transit. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Kuala Lumpur has a great public transit system. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Nice offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are both buses and trams.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Nice a more walkable city?

Nice is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Nice. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Nice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nice or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

In either Kuala Lumpur or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Nice has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nice than Kuala Lumpur. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

Couples should spend more time in Nice than Kuala Lumpur. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nice that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Nice 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 Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

Kuala Lumpur is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Nice, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this trendy seaside destination offers. 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 Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

Kuala Lumpur is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Nice is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

Kuala Lumpur is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

In Nice, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this trendy destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

The diverse city of Kuala Lumpur offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Nice 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 Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Nice, we can see that Nice is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur is in Asia and Nice is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur 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 Nice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nice than you might in Kuala Lumpur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive? and Is Nice Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Nice, 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 Kuala Lumpur or Nice?

Nice has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Nice in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Nice. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Nice because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kuala Lumpur is a little warmer than Nice. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Nice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the summer. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in July than Nice. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Nice in the Autumn?

Both Nice and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nice this time of year.

In October, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Nice. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 27°C (81°F), and Nice fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nice. It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In October, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Nice. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Nice in the Winter?

Both Nice and Kuala Lumpur during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Nice for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Nice in the winter. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Nice fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in January than Nice. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kuala Lumpur or Nice in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Nice. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Also, many visitors come to Nice in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Nice. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Nice averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Nice. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nice and Kuala Lumpur