A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nottingham or Arles?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Arles 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a cultural, authentic, and dynamic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Arles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Arles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Nottingham than Arles. Nottingham is bigger than Arles, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Nottingham is better known for its music, shopping, and big city activities, while Arles is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Also, Nottingham is famous for Old Market Square. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Nottingham different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Arles?

Nottingham
Arles

Arles is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Arles that are not to be missed. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Arles

Arles is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arles makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Nottingham or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Arles

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Arles.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Nottingham or Arles Better for Music?

Nottingham
Arles

Nottingham is very good for its music scene. However, Arles is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Arles is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Arles

Arles is very popular for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Arles has a world-famous historical area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Arles?

Nottingham
Arles

Nottingham is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Nottingham. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Nottingham or Arles Better for Families?

Nottingham
Arles

Nottingham is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.


Is Nottingham or Arles Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Arles

Arles is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Nottingham or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Arles

Nottingham is well known for its public transit. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Nottingham or Arles a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Arles

Nottingham and Arles both are superb when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Arles is a very walkable city. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nottingham or Arles to fill your time. In our opinion, Arles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Arles than Nottingham. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Arles than Nottingham. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Arles that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arles than Nottingham 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 Arles.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Nottingham or Arles?

In Nottingham, many people enjoy the live music and food that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

With museums and nightlife around the quaint town of Arles, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arles, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Nottingham or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Arles, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Nottingham or Arles?

Nottingham is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Nottingham. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Arles, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Nottingham or Arles?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the livable destination of Nottingham. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Arles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Arles 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 Nottingham and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Arles £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Arles £122
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Arles? 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 Nottingham


Hotels in Arles


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Arles £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    Arles £44

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    £3.85
  • Ice Cream
    £0.86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Arles £26

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    £4.71

Tours and Activities in Arles

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

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Arles £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Arles?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Arles, 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 Nottingham or Arles?

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 Nottingham or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Nottingham is generally cooler than Arles. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives more rain than Arles. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Nottingham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Arles because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Nottingham is cooler than Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets less sunshine than Arles. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Arles. The winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. In the winter, Nottingham is much colder than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Arles. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Arles. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the natural beauty.

In April, Nottingham is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. In the spring, Nottingham often gets less sunshine than Arles. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Nottingham

Nottingham Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)