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

Should you visit Nice or Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia 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 beautiful, opulent, and trendy 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a scenic, traditional, and understated seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Nice and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Nice or Ventimiglia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nice. Although Nice and Ventimiglia are both popular with visitors, Nice has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nice is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere, while Ventimiglia is known for its small town charm. Nice is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. It is also home to The Promenade des Anglais. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Nice different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nice
Ventimiglia

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

For foodies, Nice is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.


Is Nice or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Nice
Ventimiglia

Nice is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Nice or Ventimiglia Better for Resorts?

Nice
Ventimiglia

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Nice is a great choice. 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.

Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Ventimiglia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice
Ventimiglia

Nice is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Nice has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Nice or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Nice
Ventimiglia

Nice is a great destination for the beach. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Nice is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Nice or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Nice
Ventimiglia

Both Nice and Ventimiglia have excellent 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 Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Ventimiglia?

Nice
Ventimiglia

Both Nice and Ventimiglia are excellent 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 Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.


Is Nice or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Nice
Ventimiglia

Both Nice and Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is a family-friendly seaside destination. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Nice or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Nice
Ventimiglia

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

Nice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Ventimiglia is a great seaside destination if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Nice or Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nice
Ventimiglia

Nice is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Nice
Ventimiglia

Nice is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Nice or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Nice
Ventimiglia

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

Ventimiglia is very walkable. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Nice?

How long in Nice or Ventimiglia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nice or Ventimiglia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nice than Ventimiglia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Nice, and 1-2 days is enough time in Ventimiglia.

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


  • How many days in Nice or Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nice 3-5 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Nice or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the glamourous 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.

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the trendy 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.

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the trendy 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.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This seaside town 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 Ventimiglia?

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.

Because Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia or Nice?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nice is €131, while the average daily cost in Ventimiglia is €121. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nice and Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nice 59
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nice 118
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Nice and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Nice or Ventimiglia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nice


Hotels in Ventimiglia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nice Hotel Prices and Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nice 25
    Ventimiglia 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nice

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nice:

  • Airport Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Nice City in Luxury Van: $83
  • Airport Transfer: Nice City to Nice Airport NCE in Luxury Van: $83
  • Arrival Transfer from Côte d'Azur Airport NCE to Nice City in Private Car: $44
  • Arrival Transfer from Nice Airport NCE to Nice city by Sedan: $60
  • Arrival Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Cannes in Business Car: $104
  • Arrival Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Cannes in Luxury Van: $118
  • Arrival Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Monaco in Business Car: $110
  • Cannes Private Transfer from Nice Airport to central Cannes: $298
  • Cruise Port Hercule to Monaco hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Day Trip / transfer to and from aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur: $93
  • Departure Transfer from Nice City to Côte d'Azur Airport NCE in Private Car: $44
  • Departure Transfer: Monaco to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Nice or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia and Nice change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nice 49
    Ventimiglia 38
Typical Food Prices in Nice

Some typical examples of dining costs in Nice are as follows:


  • Slushee
    2.50
  • Strawberries
    4.00
  • Loaf of Bread
    3.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nice

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nice.

  • Nice Small-Group Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties & Wine Tasting: $89
  • Viator Exclusive: Organic French Dinner in the Garden of Nice: $96
  • The Flavors of Nice Food Tour: $104
  • Old Nice Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $105
  • Viator Exclusive: Local Cooking Class & Dinner with View of Nice: $108
  • 3.5-Hour Original Old Town Food Tour: $109
  • Half Day Afternoon Walking Food Tour with Dinner: $149
  • Dinner in the vineyard French Riviera: $175

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $76
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $88
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo with Show Cooking: $94
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $96
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $142
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Sanremo: $160
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $224

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nice 12
    Ventimiglia 27

Tours and Activities in Nice

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Nice are as follows:

  • Vieux Nice : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.16
  • Nice : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.16
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Ticket to Musée National du Sport: $6.52
  • Monaco Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Nice Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Nice's Old Town Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $7.06
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Nice city tour: audio guide app in your smartphone: $7.60
  • Nice Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Historical Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $77
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $94
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $110

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nice 17
    Ventimiglia 7.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Nice

Also in Nice, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Nice Bar Crawl | Ultimate night experience: $8.69
  • Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entry and Free Shots: $16
  • Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $23
  • Riviera Bar Crawl Nice: $28
  • Pub Crawl/Bar Crawl NICE - The Ultimate Night: $29
  • Brewery Tour and Craft Beer Tasting: $33
  • New Year's Eve Pub Crawl with Shots and VIP Club Entry: $53
  • New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl Nice France: $54
  • Provence Organic Wine Tasting Half Day Tour from Nice: $66
  • Wine Tasting: Tour de France in Nice City Centre: $75
  • Half-Day Saint Paul de Vence and Wine Tasting Tour: $84
  • Exclusive Food and Wine Tour in Menton - 3 hours - small groups: $99


When comparing the travel costs between Nice and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nice or Ventimiglia?

Nice has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Nice and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Ventimiglia. Many travelers come to Nice for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In July, Nice usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ventimiglia. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nice 23°C (73°F) 
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Nice or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nice as well as Ventimiglia. Many visitors come to Nice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nice 17°C (63°F) 
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Nice or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

Both Ventimiglia and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

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

In January, Nice usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ventimiglia. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nice 9°C (48°F) 
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Nice or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

Both Ventimiglia and Nice during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Nice because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year.

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

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nice 13°C (56°F) 
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Nice

Nice Ventimiglia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)