A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Messina vs. Toulouse for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Messina or Toulouse?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Messina and Toulouse can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Messina

Messina is a local, historic, and bustling port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a historic, vibrant, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Messina and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Toulouse?

You'll generally find more things to do in Toulouse than Messina. Toulouse is bigger than Messina, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Toulouse is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Messina is more popular for its beaches. Messina is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. Also, Toulouse is famous for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Messina different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Messina or Toulouse?

Toulouse is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

Messina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

Is the Food Better in Messina or Toulouse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Toulouse is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Toulouse have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Messina and Toulouse.

Messina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

Many people head to Toulouse for the nightlife scene. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Messina or Toulouse Better for Beaches?

Messina is adequate for the beach. However, Toulouse is not a beach destination.

The beach in Messina is worth checking out. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Is Messina or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Toulouse is well known for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

Toulouse is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Toulouse?

Toulouse is well known for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Toulouse is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Messina or Toulouse Better for Families?

Both Messina and Toulouse are great to visit with kids.

Messina is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Toulouse is very family-friendly. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Messina or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Toulouse is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Toulouse frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Messina or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Messina is a port city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

Messina is a good port city to visit for backpackers. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Messina or Toulouse Better for Students?

Messina and Toulouse are notable places to visit for students.

Messina is popular with students. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

It's common for students to visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Is Messina or Toulouse Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Messina and Toulouse.

You'll find some public transit in Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

While Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Messina or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Messina and Toulouse both are great when exploring on foot.

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

Toulouse is a very walkable port city. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Messina Worth Visiting? and Is Toulouse Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Messina?

How long in Messina or Toulouse?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Messina than Toulouse 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 Messina.

One day in Messina or Toulouse?

The port city of Messina offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Toulouse, 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 food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Messina or Toulouse?

Messina is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Messina, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Toulouse, 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 food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toulouse has to offer.

Five days in Messina or Toulouse?

Messina is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Toulouse 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 Messina or Toulouse?

Messina is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Toulouse. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulouse. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Messina and Toulouse, we can see that Toulouse 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 Messina Expensive? and Is Toulouse Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Messina or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Messina and Toulouse, 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 Messina or Toulouse?

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 Messina or Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse and Messina during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Messina because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

In July, Messina is generally a little warmer than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 27°C (80°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Toulouse, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Messina. In the summer, Messina often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets less rain in July than Toulouse. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Toulouse in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Toulouse. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Messina is a little warmer than Toulouse in the autumn. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Messina usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during autumn. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Messina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Messina usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Messina or Toulouse in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Messina as well as Toulouse. Many travelers come to Messina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Messina is much warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the winter temperatures in Messina in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Toulouse averages at about 6°C (44°F).

In the winter, Messina often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the winter. Messina usually gets more rain in January than Toulouse. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Toulouse in the Spring?

Both Toulouse and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Messina in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Toulouse for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Messina is generally a little warmer than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 16°C (60°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during spring. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Messina usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulouse. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Messina