A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Rochelle vs. Amalfi for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit La Rochelle or Amalfi?

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

Should I visit La Rochelle or Amalfi? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a picturesque, stunning, and dramatic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

La Rochelle and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Rochelle or Amalfi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amalfi than La Rochelle, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amalfi is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while La Rochelle is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Amalfi is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. Also, Amalfi is famous for the dramatic coastline. La Rochelle is well known for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting.

How is La Rochelle different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Rochelle or Amalfi?

La Rochelle is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is the Food Better in La Rochelle or Amalfi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both La Rochelle and Amalfi offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, La Rochelle is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Amalfi has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

Amalfi is great for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Amalfi for the nightlife scene. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Amalfi is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Amalfi has a few good snorkeling spots. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both La Rochelle and Amalfi are notable choices.

La Rochelle is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people head to Amalfi to enjoy the beach. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for its old town. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

La Rochelle offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amalfi. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

Amalfi is great for hiking. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Amalfi for the hiking trails. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

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 La Rochelle or Amalfi?

If you're looking to go shopping, La Rochelle and Amalfi both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Many visitors go to Amalfi to go shopping. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either La Rochelle or Amalfi.

La Rochelle offers lots of family activities. 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.

Amalfi is a family-friendly place to visit. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both La Rochelle and Amalfi make for a terrific place to visit.

La Rochelle makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

For those traveling as a couple, Amalfi has plenty to offer. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for backpackers. However, Amalfi is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

La Rochelle is a good coastal town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Amalfi is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The area has a couple of hostels around, but in general this is a difficult place to visit as a backpacker. There are SITA buses that offer transportation, and because the town is in the middle of the coastline, it offers decent access to everything.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi Better for Students?

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for students. However, Amalfi is not popular with students.

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

Amalfi is not popular with students.

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

La Rochelle and Amalfi both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

Amalfi has a few public transit options. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Is La Rochelle or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Amalfi is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its ease of walking around.

Amalfi is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is La Rochelle Worth Visiting? and Is Amalfi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amalfi or La Rochelle?

How long in La Rochelle or Amalfi?

Both La Rochelle and Amalfi have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amalfi than in La Rochelle. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Rochelle, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amalfi.

Couples should spend more time in Amalfi than La Rochelle. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Amalfi 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 Amalfi 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 La Rochelle or Amalfi?

La Rochelle might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the picturesque town of Amalfi. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. 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.

A weekend in La Rochelle or Amalfi?

La Rochelle is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the picturesque destination of Amalfi. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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.

Five days in La Rochelle or Amalfi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the charming town of Amalfi. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

A week in La Rochelle or Amalfi?

La Rochelle is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Amalfi. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the food. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between La Rochelle and Amalfi, we can see that Amalfi 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 Amalfi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amalfi 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 La Rochelle Expensive? and Is Amalfi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, La Rochelle or Amalfi?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of La Rochelle and Amalfi, 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 La Rochelle or Amalfi?

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 La Rochelle or Amalfi in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Rochelle as well as Amalfi. Many visitors come to La Rochelle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Amalfi for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

La Rochelle is cooler than Amalfi in the summer. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 20°C (67°F) in July, and Amalfi fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amalfi. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Rochelle this time of the year. In the summer, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. La Rochelle gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets more rain in July than Amalfi. La Rochelle gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Amalfi in the Autumn?

Both Amalfi and La Rochelle are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to La Rochelle for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Amalfi because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, La Rochelle is cooler than Amalfi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Rochelle in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Amalfi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Amalfi during autumn. La Rochelle gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Amalfi. In October, La Rochelle usually receives less rain than Amalfi. La Rochelle gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Amalfi in the Winter?

Both Amalfi and La Rochelle during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amalfi this time of year.

In January, La Rochelle is generally cooler than Amalfi. Daily temperatures in La Rochelle average around 7°C (44°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. La Rochelle gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun.

Amalfi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. La Rochelle usually gets less rain in January than Amalfi. La Rochelle gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Amalfi in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Rochelle and Amalfi. The beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amalfi for the beaches and the natural beauty.

La Rochelle is cooler than Amalfi in the spring. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Amalfi fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

La Rochelle usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amalfi during spring. La Rochelle gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Rochelle usually receives less rain than Amalfi. La Rochelle gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amalfi and La Rochelle