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

Should you visit Nice or Houston?

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 Houston 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 glamourous, beautiful, and opulent seaside destination. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nice and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Houston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Houston than Nice. Houston is bigger than Nice, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Houston is better known for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Nice is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Houston and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

How is Nice different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Houston 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 Houston?

Houston 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 Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eat your way through Nice, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Nice or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Nice is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Nice just to party. 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.

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Nice or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Nice is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Nice is not a live music destination.

Is Nice or Houston Better for Resorts?

Nice is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Nice for its luxury resorts. 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.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Houston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Houston Better for Beaches?

Nice is well known for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Nice for it's beautiful 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Nice or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Nice is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Houston?

Nice is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Nice or Houston Better for Families?

Houston 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.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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 Houston Better for Couples?

Nice is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Nice is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Houston is a good seaside destination for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Nice or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nice is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nice or Houston Better for Students?

Houston is a city with good options for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Houston is a good city to visit for students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Nice is well known for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Nice or Houston a more walkable city?

Nice is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Houston is generally not a very walkable seaside destination. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Nice?

How long in Nice or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nice and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nice than in Houston. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Nice, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

Families should spend more time in Nice than Houston. 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 Houston. 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 Nice than Houston 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 Nice or Houston?

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.

Houston 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 Houston?

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.

Houston 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.

Five days in Nice or Houston?

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.

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

A week in Nice or Houston?

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 southern city of Houston 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.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nice and Houston, we can see that Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nice or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Houston. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nice is cooler than Houston in the summer. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Nice usually receives less rain than Houston. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nice or Houston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nice as well as Houston. Many travelers come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Houston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Nice is cooler than Houston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nice in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Houston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Nice receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nice usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Houston. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nice in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Nice is generally cooler than Houston. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 9°C (48°F), and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Nice usually receives less rain than Houston. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nice or Houston in the Spring?

Both Houston and Nice during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Houston because of the activities around the city.

Nice is much colder than Houston in the spring. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Nice usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Nice