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

Should you visit Manchester or Nice?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Manchester and Nice can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a dynamic, diverse, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nice

Nice is a opulent, trendy, and chic seaside destination. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Manchester and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Manchester or Nice?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Manchester. Although Manchester and Nice are roughly the same size, Manchester has more sights and attractions for tourists. Manchester is very popular for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Nice attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Manchester is famous for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. It is also well known for The National Football Museum.

How is Manchester different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Manchester or Nice?

Manchester is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Manchester. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Nice is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Nice has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Is Manchester or Nice Better for Nightlife?

Nice is very popular for nightlife. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Nice is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Manchester has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Is Manchester or Nice Better for Music?

Manchester is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Nice is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Manchester is very popular with diverse venues. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Nice is not a live music destination.

Is Manchester or Nice Better for Resorts?

Nice is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Manchester is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Nice is a perfect choice. 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.

Manchester is not a resort destination.

Is Manchester or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Manchester is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Manchester or Nice Better for Beaches?

Nice is great for its beaches. However, Manchester is not a beach destination.

Nice is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Manchester is not a beach destination.

Is Manchester or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Nice is great for its historic old town. However, Manchester does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Nice?

If you're looking to go shopping, Manchester and Nice both offer plenty of superb spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Manchester. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Nice is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Manchester or Nice Better for Families?

Manchester 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.

Manchester is a very kid-friendly city. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

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 Manchester or Nice Better for Couples?

Nice is very popular for romance. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Nice has plenty to offer. 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.

Manchester is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Is Manchester or Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Manchester and Nice are nice places to visit.

Manchester is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Manchester or Nice Better for Students?

Manchester is a well-known place for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Manchester. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Manchester and Nice both offer superb public transit to get you around.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Manchester. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Public transit in Nice can get you to some places easily. There are both buses and trams.

Is Manchester or Nice a more walkable city?

Nice is very popular for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Nice is a very easy seaside destination to get around on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Nice or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Nice?

In either Manchester or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nice than Manchester because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nice than Manchester. 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 Nice than Manchester 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 Nice.

One day in Manchester or Nice?

Manchester is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With shopping and nightlife around the beautiful seaside destination of Nice, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Manchester or Nice?

Manchester 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Nice, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Manchester or Nice?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural big city of Manchester. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nice, a popular seaside destination, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this seaside destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Manchester or Nice?

The vibrant city of Manchester offers shopping and museums. 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 that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, 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 Manchester and Nice, we can see that Manchester is more expensive. And not only is Nice much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nice would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nice 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 Manchester would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Manchester than you might in Nice.

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

Which is Bigger, Manchester or Nice?

Manchester has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Manchester 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 Manchester or Nice?

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 Manchester or Nice in the Summer?

Both Nice and Manchester during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Manchester for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nice in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Manchester is cooler than Nice. Typically, the summer temperatures in Manchester in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Nice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Manchester usually gets more rain in July than Nice. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Nice in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Nice. Many visitors come to Manchester in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Manchester is generally much colder than Nice. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 11°C (52°F), and Nice fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Nice receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Manchester usually receives less rain than Nice. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Manchester or Nice in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Nice. Most visitors come to Manchester for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Manchester can be very cold during winter. Manchester is much colder than Nice in the winter. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Nice fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Manchester usually gets less rain in January than Nice. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Nice in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Manchester is much colder than Nice. Typically, the spring temperatures in Manchester in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Nice averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In April, Manchester usually receives less rain than Nice. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nice and Manchester