A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Arles for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Arles can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a high energy, livable, and cultural port city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles

Arles is a charming, compact, and quaint town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Arles: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

Both Arles and Newcastle upon Tyne have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular for its nightlife and shopping, while Arles attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its museums and history. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Arles has many famous sights for visitors. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newcastle upon Tyne can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.


Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Newcastle upon Tyne and Arles can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arles makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Arles is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Arles offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Many visitors go to Newcastle upon Tyne to see the historical old town. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.


Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles Better for Families?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Newcastle upon Tyne is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Arles is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Arles makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Newcastle upon Tyne is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Arles is not popular with students.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its public transit. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.


Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Arles

Newcastle upon Tyne is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Arles 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.


  • How many days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newcastle upon Tyne 2-3 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Arles, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people visit Arles for a weekend. Lots of people come for the museums. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arles, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The beautiful destination of Arles offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers something for everyone. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newcastle upon Tyne is £130, while the average daily cost in Arles 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newcastle upon Tyne £51
    Arles £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newcastle upon Tyne £102
    Arles £122
Compare Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles? 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 Newcastle upon Tyne


Hotels in Arles


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: Newcastle upon Tyne Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £12
    Arles £20
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Newcastle upon Tyne:


  • Parking
    £1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle upon Tyne

Also for Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Club - Round-Trip Transfer: $65
  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Newcastle Airport to Newcastle Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £68
    Arles £44
Typical Food Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newcastle upon Tyne

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

  • The Ultimate Cheese & Wine Food Tour: $83
  • Newcastle Street Food Tour: $88
  • A Taste Of Newcastle Food Tour: $89
  • Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour: $191

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    £3.85
  • Ice Cream
    £0.86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £17
    Arles £26

Tours and Activities in Newcastle upon Tyne

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

  • Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins: $5.20
  • Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket: $16
  • Private Bike Tour of Berwick: $19
  • Newcastle Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Sunderland by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Newcastle True Crime Walking Tour: $23
  • 1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour: $23
  • 1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle: $25
  • Guided Walks and Tours, Seahouses, Beadnell & Bamburgh: $29
  • Northumberland Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Halloween Special: Newcastle's Dark Side Walking Tour: $32
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne: $38

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    £4.71

Tours and Activities in Arles

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

  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newcastle upon Tyne £9.43
    Arles £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle upon Tyne:

  • Private Newcastle Pub Tour: $191
  • Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour: $203

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

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

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


When comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Arles, we can see that Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne and Arles, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Newcastle upon Tyne during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Arles in the summer. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Arles. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Arles. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newcastle upon Tyne 15°C (59°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Arles. The shopping scene are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Arles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Arles averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Arles during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Arles receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Arles. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newcastle upon Tyne 10°C (49°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Arles. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 3°C (38°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Arles. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Arles. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newcastle upon Tyne 3°C (38°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the natural beauty during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Arles in the spring. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Arles during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Arles. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newcastle upon Tyne 7°C (45°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)