A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Cannes for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Backpackers

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Cannes?

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 Cannes can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

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

Cannes

Cannes is a opulent , luxury, and lavish resort city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Orkney Islands and Cannes: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Cannes?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cannes. Although Orkney Islands and Cannes are popular destinations, Cannes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cannes is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and shopping, while Orkney Islands attracts visitors for its museums and hiking. Cannes is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is popular for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also well known for Boulevard de la Croisette. Orkney Islands is famous for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Orkney Islands is very good for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Orkney Islands or Cannes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes 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.

Cannes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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 Cannes Better for Nightlife?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes is great for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Cannes for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Music?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes is renowned for its music scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a live music destination.

Cannes has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Orkney Islands is not a live music destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Resorts?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Orkney Islands is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cannes is a perfect choice. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Orkney Islands is not a resort destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Orkney Islands is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Orkney Islands is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Orkney Islands and Cannes are very good choices for a beach vacation.

Orkney Islands is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cannes. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.


Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes is great for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Orkney Islands is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Cannes is not a hiking destination.

Orkney Islands is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Cannes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Cannes?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Cannes specifically to go shopping. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Families?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Orkney Islands or Cannes.

Orkney Islands offers lots of family activities. 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.

Cannes is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes is renowned for couples. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Cannes has plenty to offer. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Orkney Islands is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Orkney Islands is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.


Is Orkney Islands or Cannes Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Orkney Islands and Cannes 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.

Cannes has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

Is Orkney Islands or Cannes a more walkable city?

Orkney Islands
Cannes

Cannes is great for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

Cannes is a very walkable destination. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Orkney Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Cannes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Cannes?

It's fun to spend time in either Orkney Islands or Cannes. 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 Cannes.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cannes than Orkney Islands 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 Cannes.


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

One day in Orkney Islands or Cannes?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Orkney Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Cannes, you'll find nightlife and live music. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Orkney Islands or Cannes?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cannes is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Cannes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orkney Islands. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cannes. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Cannes?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the serene destination of Orkney Islands. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the resort city of Cannes. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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, The Best Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.


Which place is cheaper, Cannes 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 Cannes is £117. 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 Cannes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orkney Islands £60
    Cannes £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orkney Islands £120
    Cannes £128
Compare Hotels in Orkney Islands and Cannes

Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands or Cannes? 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 Cannes


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: Cannes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orkney Islands £56
    Cannes £14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cannes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cannes:

  • Cannes-Mandelieu Airport (CEQ): Transfer to Port de la Santé: $433
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer-Port de la Santé: Transfer to Cannes: $399
  • Private Transfer to/from Marseille: $310
  • Cannes Private Transfer from Cannes city centre to Nice Airport: $295
  • Private Transfer to/from Saint-Tropez: $225
  • Private Transfer to/from Monaco: $181
  • Private Direct Transfer From Cannes to Monaco: $139
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Nice Airport: $128
  • Transfer Nice Airport French Riviera: $125
  • Private One-way Transfer From Cannes to Nice, 2h Stop in Antibes: $124
  • Private Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Luxury Van: $116
  • Departure Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $103

Is it cheaper to fly into Orkney Islands or Cannes?

Prices for flights to both Cannes 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
    Cannes £39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orkney Islands £27
    Cannes £26

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 Cannes

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

  • Watch the Fireworks from the boat. Unique experience: $1,593
  • Cannes 2 Hours : Privat City Tour in a French Vintage Bus: $315
  • Cannes 2.5-Hour E-bike Tour: $74
  • Cannes : Ferrari experience: $214
  • Cannes : Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102
  • Cannes Discovery: walking Tour Led by a Local Expert: $38
  • Cannes E-Bike Guided Tour: $75
  • Cannes Experience private boat tour Islands French Riviera: $631
  • Cannes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Cannes Luxury Catamaran Half or Day Cruise with lunch option: $96
  • Cannes Royal Regatta Catamaran cruise: $107
  • Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.84

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orkney Islands £6.43
    Cannes £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Cannes

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

  • St Paul de Vence, Antibes & Wine Tasting from Cannes: $130
  • Grasse, Valbonne & Gourdon: Day Tour with Wine Tasting: $139
  • French Riviera: Provencal Wine Tours: $759
  • Wine Tasting, Cannes, Coco Chanel, Perfume Factory & Grasse: $1,273


When comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Cannes, 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 Cannes Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands or Cannes?

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 Cannes in the Summer?

Both Cannes and Orkney Islands during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cannes this time of year.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Cannes in the summer. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 12°C (54°F) in July, and Cannes fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in July than Cannes. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F) 
    Cannes 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Cannes in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Cannes. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cannes for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Orkney Islands is much colder than Cannes. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orkney Islands in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Cannes averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Cannes receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orkney Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cannes. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F) 
    Cannes 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Cannes in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Cannes. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Cannes in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Orkney Islands. In January, Orkney Islands is generally much colder than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 4°C (39°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Orkney Islands receives a lot of rain in the winter. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in January than Cannes. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F) 
    Cannes 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Cannes in the Spring?

Both Cannes and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cannes for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In April, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Cannes. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F) 
    Cannes 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Cannes and Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands Cannes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)