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

Should you visit Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence? 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant, laid-back, and relaxing town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Lisbon and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Aix-en-Provence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Aix-en-Provence is famous for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Lisbon 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 Lisbon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lisbon on the map. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Aix-en-Provence can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Aix-en-Provence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Lisbon is a must-see party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence Better for Music?

Lisbon is terrific for its music scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a live music destination.

In Lisbon you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Aix-en-Provence is not a live music destination.

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

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Lisbon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

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

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

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Lisbon and Aix-en-Provence.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Aix-en-Provence is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

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

Lisbon is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Lisbon is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Aix-en-Provence make for a very good place to visit.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Couples visit Aix-en-Provence frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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

Lisbon is terrific for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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

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

Both Lisbon and Aix-en-Provence are very good destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Aix-en-Provence is very popular with students. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Lisbon can take you anywhere. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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.

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

Lisbon is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Lisbon on foot is easy. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Aix-en-Provence is very walkable. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lisbon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Lisbon than Aix-en-Provence. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lisbon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Aix-en-Provence 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence?

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence?

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. 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.

A week in Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence?

Lisbon is a big city with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

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

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Aix-en-Provence. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lisbon is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aix-en-Provence. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Lisbon 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.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Lisbon