A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nice vs. San Diego for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Nice or San Diego?

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 San Diego 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nice and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or San Diego?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Nice. San Diego is bigger than Nice, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is better known for its museums, music, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Nice is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is well known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. San Diego is well known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo.

How is Nice different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Diego 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 San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Nice is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

Nice is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

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.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Nice is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego is very popular with diverse venues. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Nice is not a live music destination.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Nice is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Nice and San Diego offer notable scuba diving or snorkeling.

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.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is renowned for the beache. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for the beach.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

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.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Nice is great for its old town. However, San Diego 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Nice is not a hiking destination.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Nice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or San Diego?

Nice is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Nice is well-known for its shopping. 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 go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego 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.

San Diego is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

Both Nice and San Diego are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Nice and San Diego are notable 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 San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Nice or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is renowned for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular coastal city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Nice is great for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Nice or San Diego a more walkable city?

Nice is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

Nice is a very easy seaside destination to get around on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable seaside destination. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Nice?

How long in Nice or San Diego?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Nice than San Diego. 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 San Diego 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 San Diego?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the quaint seaside destination of Nice. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Diego. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 San Diego?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the opulent destination of Nice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This seaside destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and food around the glamourous seaside destination of Nice. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside destination has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the energetic destination of San Diego. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 San Diego?

Nice is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The fun-filled coastal city of San Diego offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nice as well as San Diego. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nice is around the same temperature as San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Nice usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nice is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nice in October average around 17°C (63°F), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It's quite rainy in Nice. In October, Nice usually receives more rain than San Diego. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nice or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Nice during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nice in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Nice is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 9°C (48°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Nice usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and San Diego. Most visitors come to Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Nice is cooler than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, Nice usually receives more rain than San Diego. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Nice