A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Nantes for Food, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Nantes?

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 Nantes 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. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and museums.

Nantes

Nantes is a welcoming, friendly, and historical city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Orkney Islands and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Nantes?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantes. Although Orkney Islands and Nantes are popular destinations, Nantes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantes is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Orkney Islands attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Nantes is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. It is also well known for The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. Orkney Islands is famous for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nantes is great for its historical sights. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Nantes specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

Orkney Islands is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

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

Nantes 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.

Nantes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Nantes for the nightlife scene. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Nantes Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for the beach. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Nantes is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Nantes has an old town worth visiting. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Nantes Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nantes is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Nantes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Nantes?

Nantes is great for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Nantes Better for Families?

Nantes is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nantes. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Orkney Islands is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Orkney Islands or Nantes Better for Couples?

Both Orkney Islands and Nantes 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.

Nantes is a very popular place to visit for couples. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Orkney Islands or Nantes Better for Students?

Nantes is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Nantes. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Nantes is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its public transit.

The public transit in Nantes can get you to most places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

Orkney Islands has a few public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Is Orkney Islands or Nantes a more walkable city?

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

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Nantes?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orkney Islands and Nantes. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than in Nantes. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nantes.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantes 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 Nantes.

One day in Orkney Islands or Nantes?

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 Nantes, you'll find museums and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Nantes?

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.

Nantes 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Orkney Islands or Nantes?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the natural 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 shopping and museums when visiting the city of Nantes. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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 Nantes Expensive?.

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

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 Orkney Islands or Nantes in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Nantes. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nantes for the family-friendly experiences.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Nantes in the summer. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 12°C (54°F) in July, and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nantes this time of the year. Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Nantes. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Nantes in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Nantes. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Nantes in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Orkney Islands is cooler than Nantes. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orkney Islands in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Nantes averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in October than Nantes. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Nantes in the Winter?

Both Nantes and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nantes 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 cooler than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 4°C (39°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Nantes. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Nantes in the Spring?

Both Nantes and Orkney Islands during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nantes because of the natural beauty.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Nantes in the spring. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in April than Nantes. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nantes and Orkney Islands