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

Should you visit Nice or New Orleans?

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 New Orleans 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 chic, glamourous, and beautiful seaside destination. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant, energetic, and fun-filled city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and nightlife.

Nice and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or New Orleans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New Orleans than Nice. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. New Orleans is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Nice attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is famous for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. New Orleans is famous for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also well known for The French Quarter.

The French Quarter

How is Nice different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at world-class restaurants in both Nice and New Orleans.

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 New Orleans, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Nightlife?

Both Nice and New Orleans are world-class 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.

New Orleans has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Music?

New Orleans 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 New Orleans The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Nice is not a live music destination.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Resorts?

Nice is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Nice is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a seaside destination with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Beaches?

Nice is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, New Orleans is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Nice attract visitors from all over. 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.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for its Old Town?

Both Nice and New Orleans have great 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 New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or New Orleans?

Nice is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Families?

Nice is a seaside destination with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Couples?

Nice is a world-class destination for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Nice is a great seaside destination for couples, as it 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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nice is a seaside destination with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options 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.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is Nice or New Orleans Better for Students?

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

New Orleans is a good city to visit for students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Nice is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Nice is fairly effecient and thorough. There are both buses and trams.

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is Nice or New Orleans a more walkable city?

Nice is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Nice. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

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

Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Nice?

How long in Nice or New Orleans?

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

Families should spend more time in Nice than New Orleans. 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 New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the opulent seaside destination of Nice. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of New Orleans. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the opulent destination of Nice. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This seaside destination offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

New Orleans is a fun place to experience. 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the chic seaside destination of Nice. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find live music and food around the festive destination of New Orleans. 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 New Orleans?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Nice. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The fun-filled city of New Orleans offers food and nightlife. 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or New Orleans?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice and New Orleans, 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 New Orleans?

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 Nice or New Orleans in the Summer?

Both New Orleans and Nice during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Nice because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year.

In July, Nice is generally cooler than New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 23°C (73°F), and New Orleans fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nice usually gets less rain in July than New Orleans. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or New Orleans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and New Orleans. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to New Orleans for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Nice is cooler than New Orleans in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and New Orleans fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Nice gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nice usually receives more rain than New Orleans. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nice or New Orleans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nice as well as New Orleans. Many travelers come to Nice for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to New Orleans in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Nice is cooler than New Orleans. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nice in January average around 9°C (48°F), and New Orleans averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. Nice usually gets less rain in January than New Orleans. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or New Orleans in the Spring?

Both New Orleans and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nice in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to New Orleans for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Nice is generally much colder than New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 13°C (56°F), and New Orleans fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. In April, Nice usually receives less rain than New Orleans. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New Orleans and Nice