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

Should you visit Nice or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nice and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle than Nice, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seattle is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Nice is known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Seattle and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Seattle is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle.

How is Nice different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seattle 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 Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a city with good options for its theatre productions. However, Nice is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Nice is not a theatre destination.

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

Nice is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nice is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Nice is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Music?

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

The music scene in Seattle is very popular with diverse venues. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Nice is not a live music destination.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Nice is renowned for its resorts. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Nice is notable for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Nice is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nice to see the historical old town. 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.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Nice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Seattle?

Nice is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Families?

Both Nice and Seattle 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly seaside destination. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Couples?

Nice is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Nice and Seattle 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 Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Nice or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a well-known place for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Nice is notable for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Nice or Seattle a more walkable city?

Nice is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Nice?

How long in Nice or Seattle?

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

Families should spend more time in Nice than Seattle. 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 Seattle. 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 Seattle 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Seattle?

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 live music and food around the laid-back big city of Seattle. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nice or Seattle?

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 outdoorsy city of Seattle offers food and shopping. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nice for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nice is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nice in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In July, Nice usually receives less rain than Seattle. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nice or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Nice during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In October, Nice is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 17°C (63°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nice. Nice usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Seattle. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Nice is much warmer than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Nice usually receives less rain than Seattle. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nice or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nice as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nice is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nice in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Nice usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Seattle. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Nice