A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nantes vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nantes or Ventimiglia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Nantes or Ventimiglia, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Nantes

Nantes is a vibrant, welcoming, and friendly city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a traditional, understated, and classic seaside town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Nantes and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Nantes or Ventimiglia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantes. Although Nantes and Ventimiglia are popular destinations, Nantes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantes is very popular for its museums, food, and nightlife, while Ventimiglia attracts visitors for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Nantes is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. It is also well known for The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. Ventimiglia is famous for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Nantes different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantes or Ventimiglia?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Nantes is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

Nantes offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nantes or Ventimiglia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Nantes is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Nantes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Nantes or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Nantes is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Nantes know how to have a good time. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Nantes or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Nantes is not a beach destination.

Ventimiglia has a beach worth visiting. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Nantes is not a beach destination.


Is Nantes or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Many visitors go to Ventimiglia to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Many visitors go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Ventimiglia?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Nantes and Ventimiglia.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Ventimiglia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Is Nantes or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Nantes is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Nantes is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.


Is Nantes or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Nantes and Ventimiglia are both very good to visit as a couple.

Nantes makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Couples visit Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Nantes or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Nantes is a popular place for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Is Nantes or Ventimiglia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Nantes is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Nantes offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

While Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.


Is Nantes or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Nantes
Ventimiglia

Nantes and Ventimiglia are very good when it comes to walkability.

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

Ventimiglia is very walkable. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nantes Worth Visiting? and Is Ventimiglia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Ventimiglia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nantes or Ventimiglia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nantes than Ventimiglia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nantes, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ventimiglia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantes than Ventimiglia 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 Nantes.


  • How many days in Nantes or Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantes 2-3 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Nantes or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Nantes. 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.

Ventimiglia 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. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Nantes or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Nantes. This city 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.

Ventimiglia 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 Nantes or Ventimiglia?

The friendly city of Nantes offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. 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.

A week in Nantes or Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nantes. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia or Nantes?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantes is €108, while the average daily cost in Ventimiglia is €121. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nantes and Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantes 60
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantes 120
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Nantes and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Nantes or Ventimiglia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nantes


Hotels in Ventimiglia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nantes Hotel Prices and Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantes 36
    Ventimiglia 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nantes

Also for Nantes, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $52
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes Airport to City centre: $65
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes city centre to Nantes Airport: $65
  • Nantes to Nantes Airport (NTE) - Departure Private Transfer: $26
  • Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes: $33
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Airport (NTE) to La Rochelle Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Atlantique Airport NTE to Puy du Fou Park: $174
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Hotels to La Rochelle Cruise Port: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantes or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia and Nantes change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nantes 27
    Ventimiglia 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nantes

For Nantes, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nantes Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Nantes Old Town with Local Guide: $145

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantes 13
    Ventimiglia 27

Tours and Activities in Nantes

For Nantes, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Guided treetop adventure course in the heart of Nantes: $31
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $50
  • Nantes : Private Walking Tour With A Local : $51
  • Welcome to Private Tour with a Local: $51
  • Nantes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike: $59
  • PANORAMA TOUR OF NANTES by electric bike: $60
  • Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour: $75

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantes 6.43
    Ventimiglia 7.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Nantes

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nantes:

  • Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: $35


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


Which is Bigger, Nantes or Ventimiglia?

Nantes has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Nantes and Ventimiglia, 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 Nantes or Ventimiglia?

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 Nantes or Ventimiglia in the Summer?

Both Ventimiglia and Nantes during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nantes in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Nantes is cooler than Ventimiglia in the summer. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Ventimiglia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nantes. In the summer, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Ventimiglia. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets more rain in July than Ventimiglia. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantes 19°C (67°F) 
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Nantes or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Ventimiglia. Most visitors come to Nantes for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nantes is cooler than Ventimiglia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nantes in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Nantes usually receives less sunshine than Ventimiglia during autumn. Nantes gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ventimiglia receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Nantes usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantes 13°C (56°F) 
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Nantes or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantes as well as Ventimiglia. The winter months attract visitors to Nantes because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year.

In January, Nantes is generally much colder than Ventimiglia. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 6°C (42°F), and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Ventimiglia. Nantes gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Ventimiglia. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantes 6°C (42°F) 
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Nantes or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

Both Ventimiglia and Nantes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Nantes this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Nantes is cooler than Ventimiglia in the spring. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Nantes usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ventimiglia during spring. Nantes gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nantes usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Nantes gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantes 11°C (51°F) 
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Nantes

Nantes Ventimiglia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)


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