A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nice vs. Naples for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Old Town

Should you visit Nice or Naples?

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 Naples 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 trendy, chic, and glamourous 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 shopping, nightlife, and food.

Naples

Naples is a historic, authentic, and gritty city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Nice and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Naples?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Naples than Nice, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Naples is more popular for its museums and big city activities, while Nice is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Naples and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Naples is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. It is also home to Piazza del Plebiscito.

How is Nice different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples 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 Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Nice and Naples.

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 Naples, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Is Nice or Naples Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Naples for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Is Nice or Naples Better for Resorts?

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

Nice offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Naples is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Nice has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Naples Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nice. 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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Nice or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Both Nice and Naples have high quality historic old towns worth visiting.

Nice is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Naples?

Both Nice and Naples are high quality shopping destinations.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Nice or Naples Better for Families?

Both Nice and Naples are good to visit with kids.

Nice is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Naples is a family-friendly seaside destination. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Nice or Naples Better for Couples?

Nice is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Nice has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Naples is a great seaside destination if you're traveling as a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Is Nice or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Naples is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

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.

Is Nice or Naples Better for Students?

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

Naples is a good city to visit for students. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Both Nice and Naples offer high quality public transit options.

The public transit in Nice can get you around easily. There are both buses and trams.

Naples offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Is Nice or Naples a more walkable city?

Nice is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples 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.

Naples is very walkable. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Nice?

How long in Nice or Naples?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nice and Naples. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nice than in Naples. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Nice, and 1-3 days is enough time in Naples.

Families should spend more time in Nice than Naples. 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 Naples. 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 Naples 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 Naples.

One day in Nice or Naples?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Nice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Naples is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Nice or Naples?

Nice is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Naples is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nice. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Naples. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Nice or Naples?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the glamourous destination of Nice. This seaside destination 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.

The colorful city of Naples offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or Naples?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice and Naples, 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 Naples?

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 Naples in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Naples. Most visitors come to Nice for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Naples because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nice is around the same temperature as Naples. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nice in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Naples averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In July, Nice usually receives less rain than Naples. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nice or Naples in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nice as well as Naples. The autumn months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Naples this time of year.

In October, Nice is generally around the same temperature as Naples. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 17°C (63°F), and Naples fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Naples. Nice receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nice usually gets less rain in October than Naples. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Naples in the Winter?

Both Naples and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Naples for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nice is around the same temperature as Naples in the winter. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Naples fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Naples. In January, Nice usually receives less rain than Naples. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nice or Naples in the Spring?

Both Naples and Nice during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Naples in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Nice is around the same temperature as Naples. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nice in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Naples averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Nice usually gets less rain in April than Naples. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Naples and Nice