A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a remote, serene, and tranquil archipelago. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, museums, and food.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aix-en-Provence. Although Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence are popular destinations, Aix-en-Provence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Orkney Islands attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Aix-en-Provence is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. It is also well known for . Orkney Islands is famous for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aix-en-Provence and Orkney Islands. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Aix-en-Provence and Orkney Islands.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Orkney Islands. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.


Is the Food Better in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Aix-en-Provence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Orkney Islands makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Orkney Islands is well known for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Orkney Islands. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Orkney Islands is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Orkney Islands. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Aix-en-Provence specifically to go shopping. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Orkney Islands is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Orkney Islands. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.


Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Both Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Orkney Islands is well known for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Orkney Islands is a very popular archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Aix-en-Provence is a good archipelago to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

Aix-en-Provence is very popular with students. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.


Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Orkney Islands offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Aix-en-Provence has a few public transit options. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Orkney Islands
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is great for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable destination. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Orkney Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Orkney Islands. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Aix-en-Provence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orkney Islands than Aix-en-Provence 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 Orkney Islands.


  • How many days in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orkney Islands 3-7 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

The remote destination of Orkney Islands offers food and museums. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find food and shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

The archipelago of Orkney Islands offers museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This archipelago offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

The remote archipelago of Orkney Islands offers museums and food. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Aix-en-Provence. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Orkney Islands?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orkney Islands is £128, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is £118. 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 Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orkney Islands £60
    Aix-en-Provence £69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orkney Islands £120
    Aix-en-Provence £138
Compare Hotels in Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence? 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 Orkney Islands


Hotels in Aix-en-Provence


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: Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orkney Islands £56
    Aix-en-Provence £28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118
  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Orkney Islands 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
    Orkney Islands £34
    Aix-en-Provence £28

Typical Food Prices in Aix-en-Provence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Aix-en-Provence:


  • Dinner for 2
    £40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aix-en-Provence

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Aix-en-Provence.

  • NO DIET CLUB - Best food tour in Aix en Provence (En / Fr): $62
  • Food Tour: $102
  • Aix-en-Provence Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orkney Islands £27
    Aix-en-Provence £19

Tours and Activities in Orkney Islands

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orkney Islands.

  • Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall : $246
  • From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour: $275

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese - From Aix: $82
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • 2H: Wine-Tour in Provence: $274
  • 4-Hour Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence: $87
  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese: $80
  • Aix-en-Provence Walking Food and Culture Tour - 3 hour private tour: $131
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Arles & Camargue National Park Private Tour: $1,016
  • Arles, Baux, & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Tour: $1,016
  • Avignon Tour & Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting: $1,048
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orkney Islands £6.43
    Aix-en-Provence £12

Sample the Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Half day Wine Tour in Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire from Aix en Provence: $93
  • Half Day Wine Tour in Coteaux d'Aix: $96
  • Half day Wine Tour in Côteaux Aix from Aix en Provence: $98
  • Half day Wine Tour in Bandol & Cassis from Aix en Provence: $104
  • From Wine Tour in Cezanne Countryside: $106
  • Provence small group half-day wine tour from Aix: $107
  • Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence: $108
  • Aix en Provence: Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting: $143
  • Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence: $151
  • Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix: $164
  • From Provence Region Tour with Wine Tasting: $166


When comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Aix-en-Provence. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Aix-en-Provence in the summer. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 12°C (54°F) in July, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the summer, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Orkney Islands is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orkney Islands in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. In October, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Orkney Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Orkney Islands can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Orkney Islands is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 4°C (39°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the natural beauty.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Aix-en-Provence in the spring. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)