A Travel Price Comparison for France Paris vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Paris or Arles?

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

Should I visit Paris or Arles? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Arles

Arles is a quaint, historic, and charming town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Arles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Arles. Paris is bigger than Arles, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Arles is more popular for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the world-class sights and museums in either Paris or Arles.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Arles are among the most recognizable in the world. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Is Paris or Arles Better for Theater?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Arles is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Arles is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Paris has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Paris or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Paris is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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

Is Paris or Arles Better for Music?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Arles is not a live music destination.

In Paris you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Arles is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Arles has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Arles?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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

Is Paris or Arles Better for Christmas?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Arles does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Paris is not to be missed. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Arles does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Arles Better for Families?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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

Is Paris or Arles Better for Couples?

Paris is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Paris has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Arles is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Paris or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paris is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Paris or Arles Better for Students?

Paris is an unbeatable place for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Arles is not popular with students.

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

Paris is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Paris can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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

Is Paris or Arles a more walkable city?

Paris and Arles are great when it comes to walkability.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Paris?

How long in Paris or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paris or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paris than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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

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

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

One day in Paris or Arles?

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Arles, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Paris or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Paris or Arles?

Paris is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Arles is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Arles. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paris or Arles?

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Paris or Arles?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Paris and Arles, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Paris or Arles?

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 Paris or Arles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paris as well as Arles. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paris is generally cooler than Arles. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 20°C (68°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Arles. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Arles. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Paris is cooler than Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Arles during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Arles. In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Arles. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paris or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Paris during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Paris is cooler than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paris in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Arles. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in January than Arles. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Arles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Arles. Most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Arles because of the natural beauty.

In April, Paris is generally cooler than Arles. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 11°C (52°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Arles during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives less rain than Arles. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Arles and Paris