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

Should you visit Nottingham or La Rochelle?

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 La Rochelle 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 authentic, dynamic, and livable city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back coastal town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Nottingham and La Rochelle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Nottingham or La Rochelle?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in La Rochelle than Nottingham. While Nottingham is larger than La Rochelle, La Rochelle has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Rochelle is very popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm, while Nottingham attracts visitors for its music, shopping, and big city activities. Nottingham is famous for its authenticity and local cuisine. La Rochelle is famous for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for The Old Port.

How is Nottingham different from La Rochelle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nottingham
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Rochelle. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in La Rochelle have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

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

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 La Rochelle has a few options to choose from. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is Nottingham or La Rochelle Better for Music?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

Nottingham is a popular place for its live music scene. However, La Rochelle is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Nottingham is active and vibrant. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

La Rochelle is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or La Rochelle Better for Beaches?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for its beaches. However, Nottingham is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in La Rochelle. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Nottingham is not a beach destination.

Is Nottingham or La Rochelle Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

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

La Rochelle has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is Nottingham or La Rochelle Better for Hiking?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around La Rochelle. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or La Rochelle?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

Nottingham is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its shopping areas.

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to La Rochelle to go shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Is Nottingham or La Rochelle Better for Families?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

Both Nottingham and La Rochelle are nice to visit with kids.

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.

La Rochelle offers lots of family activities. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is Nottingham or La Rochelle Better for Couples?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is very popular for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

La Rochelle is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

La Rochelle is a good coastal town to visit for backpackers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or La Rochelle Better for Students?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

La Rochelle is popular with students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Nottingham is not popular with students.

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

Nottingham
La Rochelle

Nottingham is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.

Public transit in Nottingham can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

La Rochelle has a few public transit options. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.


Is Nottingham or La Rochelle a more walkable city?

Nottingham
La Rochelle

Nottingham and La Rochelle both are excellent 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.

La Rochelle is a very walkable city. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in La Rochelle or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or La Rochelle?

It's fun to spend time in either Nottingham or La Rochelle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Rochelle due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Rochelle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle.


  • How many days in Nottingham or La Rochelle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    La Rochelle 2-4

One day in Nottingham or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic city of Nottingham. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

La Rochelle might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nottingham or La Rochelle?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Nottingham. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Even though La Rochelle is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.


Five days in Nottingham or La Rochelle?

The livable city of Nottingham offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

La Rochelle, a popular coastal 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 La Rochelle?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Nottingham. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

La Rochelle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle is £97. 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 La Rochelle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    La Rochelle £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    La Rochelle £114
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and La Rochelle

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or La Rochelle? 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 La Rochelle


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 La Rochelle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    La Rochelle £15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $223
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $96
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Rochelle

Also for La Rochelle, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Cruise Port to Nantes Hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from La Rochelle Port to Nantes Airport (NTE): $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or La Rochelle?

Prices for flights to both La Rochelle 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
    La Rochelle £30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    La Rochelle £11

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $278
  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $151
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19

Tours and Activities in La Rochelle

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for La Rochelle.

  • La Rochelle : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Entry Ticket to the 3 Towers: $12
  • La Rochelle Towers Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Les Minimes and Bay Boat Tour: $18
  • Guided tour of La Rochelle The splendor of merchants in the 18th century: $22
  • Planet Exotica entrance ticket: $23
  • Coastline Sailing Cruise: $27
  • 2-Hour Sunset Sailing Cruise: $31
  • 3-Hour Sailing cruise: $37
  • La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour - 1h: $43
  • Lighthouse at the End of the World Segway Tour - 1h: $43
  • Discover Discovery Walking Tour of La Rochelle: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    La Rochelle £14

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nottingham and La Rochelle, we can see that Nottingham is more expensive. And not only is La Rochelle much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to La Rochelle would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Rochelle 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 Nottingham would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nottingham than you might in La Rochelle.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nottingham Expensive? and Is La Rochelle Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or La Rochelle?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of La Rochelle. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle?

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 Nottingham or La Rochelle in the Summer?

Both La Rochelle and Nottingham during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to La Rochelle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nottingham is cooler than La Rochelle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nottingham in July average around 16°C (62°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 20°C (67°F).

In La Rochelle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nottingham often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 267 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets more rain in July than La Rochelle. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    La Rochelle 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or La Rochelle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and La Rochelle. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to La Rochelle for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Nottingham is generally cooler than La Rochelle. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 11°C (52°F), and La Rochelle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than La Rochelle. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    La Rochelle 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or La Rochelle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as La Rochelle. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nottingham can be very cold during winter. Nottingham is much colder than La Rochelle in the winter. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and La Rochelle fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets less sunshine than La Rochelle. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Rochelle receives 72 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than La Rochelle. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Nottingham or La Rochelle in the Spring?

Both La Rochelle and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year.

In the spring, Nottingham is cooler than La Rochelle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nottingham in April average around 8°C (46°F), and La Rochelle averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than La Rochelle during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while La Rochelle receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of rain as La Rochelle. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while La Rochelle receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    La Rochelle 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for La Rochelle and Nottingham

Nottingham La Rochelle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)


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