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

Should you visit Nice or Chicago?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nice and Chicago 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.

Nice

Nice is a opulent, trendy, and chic seaside destination. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Nice and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Nice, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Nice is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Chicago and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Chicago is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Nice different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chicago are among the most recognizable in the world. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Nice is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Nice is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Nice and Chicago.

Many restaurants in Nice have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Both Nice and Chicago are amazing when it comes to partying.

Nice is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Chicago has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is renowned for its live music scene. However, Nice is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Chicago The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Nice is not a live music destination.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Resorts?

Nice is renowned for its resorts. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Nice is a great destination for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

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.

Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Nice is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Chicago?

Chicago is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Chicago make it a world-class shopping destination. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nice. 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 Nice or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Nice does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Nice does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Nice does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Nice does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is renowned 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.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Nice is a family-friendly seaside destination. 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 Nice or Chicago Better for Couples?

Nice is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Nice and Chicago are good destinations for backpackers.

Nice is a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Nice or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is renowned for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular city for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is renowned for its public transit. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Chicago has a great public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Nice offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are both buses and trams.

Is Nice or Chicago a more walkable city?

Nice is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Nice on foot is easy. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Nice?

How long in Nice or Chicago?

In either Nice or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Chicago has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Chicago than Nice. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Nice 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 Chicago.

One day in Nice or Chicago?

In Nice, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Chicago 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.

A weekend in Nice or Chicago?

In Nice, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Chicago is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nice or Chicago?

Nice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago is a cosmopolitan big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Nice or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nice. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Nice. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The multicultural city of Chicago offers food and shopping. 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.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nice and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Nice much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Nice is in Europe and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Nice Expensive? and Is Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nice or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice and Chicago, 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 Nice or Chicago?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nice or Chicago in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Chicago. Many visitors come to Nice in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nice is around the same temperature as Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nice in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Nice usually receives less rain than Chicago. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nice or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nice as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Chicago because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nice is generally a little warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 17°C (63°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

Nice receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nice usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. Nice is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In January, Nice usually receives more rain than Chicago. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nice or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Nice during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nice is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nice in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nice usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Nice