A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paris vs. San Remo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Paris or San Remo?

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

Should I visit Paris or San Remo? 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 energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

San Remo

San Remo is a relaxing, beautiful, and scenic coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Paris and San Remo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Eiffel Tower
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Paris or San Remo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than San Remo. Paris is bigger than San Remo, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Remo is more popular for its beaches and historical sights. Paris is more touristy than San Remo and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. San Remo is well known for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Paris has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Paris or San Remo Better for Theater?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its shows and theatre. However, San Remo is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

San Remo is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its restaurants. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Remo makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is Paris or San Remo Better for Nightlife?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Paris is a must-see party destination. 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.


Is Paris or San Remo Better for Music?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its music scene. However, San Remo is not a live music destination.

Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

San Remo is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or San Remo Better for Beaches?

Paris
San Remo

San Remo is great for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

San Remo is considered a top beach destination. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Paris or San Remo Better for its Old Town?

Paris
San Remo

San Remo is great for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Paris does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Paris or San Remo?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Paris specifically to go shopping. 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.

San Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Paris or San Remo Better for Christmas?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, San Remo does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. 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.

San Remo does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or San Remo Better for Families?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

San Remo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.


Is Paris or San Remo Better for Couples?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for couples. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Couples visit San Remo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Is Paris or San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Paris, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is Paris or San Remo Better for Students?

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

San Remo is not popular with students.


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

Paris
San Remo

Paris is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

You'll find some public transit in San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is Paris or San Remo a more walkable city?

Paris
San Remo

Paris and San Remo are high quality 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.

San Remo is a very walkable city. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Paris?

How long in Paris or San Remo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paris or San Remo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paris than San Remo 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 San Remo.

Families should spend more time in Paris than San Remo. 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 San Remo. 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 San Remo 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.


  • How many days in Paris or San Remo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paris 3-7 
    San Remo 1-2

One day in Paris or San Remo?

Paris is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In San Remo, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this authentic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal city 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 San Remo?

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Remo. 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 San Remo?

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

San Remo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Remo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paris or San Remo?

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful destination of San Remo. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, San Remo or Paris?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Paris is €232, while the average daily cost in San Remo is €152. 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 Paris and San Remo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paris 151
    San Remo 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paris 302
    San Remo 160
Compare Hotels in Paris and San Remo

Looking for a hotel in Paris or San Remo? 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 Paris


Hotels in San Remo


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: Paris Hotel Prices and San Remo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paris 21
    San Remo 46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:


  • Metro
    6.40
  • Train from Airport
    9.00
  • Metro tickets
    6.80
  • Train
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

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

  • transfer from CDG/ORLY airport to Paris ,multilingual driver: $44
  • Versailles: Skip-the-Line Day Tour & Transfer from Paris: $2,567
  • Versailles Round-Trip Transfers: Multiple Departures: $52
  • Versailles Palace Guided Tour with Coach Transfer from Paris: $75
  • VERSAILLES CASTLE Round-Trip Transfer from Paris by Luxury Van: $190
  • VERSAILLES CASTLE Private Round-Trip Transfer from Paris by Sedan: $186
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Orly HTL-APT (ORY): $104
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Orly APT-HTL (ORY): $104
  • Transfert Privé Aéroport Charles de Gaulle vers Paris: $95
  • Transfer private vehicle from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to 94300 Vincennes: $59
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Paris Orly Airport (ORY) - Disney: $61
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Paris City - Paris Orly Airport (ORY): $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Paris or San Remo?

Prices for flights to both San Remo and Paris 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
    Paris 41
    San Remo 44
Typical Food Prices in Paris

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:


  • Ice Cream
    8.00
  • Breakfast
    7.00
  • Breakfast for 2
    30
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    86
  • Dinner
    57
  • Cheese
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 1h30 Cooking Activity in English: $22
  • Hard Rock Cafe Paris with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner : $33
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $44
  • No Diet Club - A selection of the best pizzas in Paris !: $45
  • Authentic Indian Dinner in Paris : $49
  • Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $52
  • Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $56
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $58
  • No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $67
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $68
  • Paris : No Diet Club Food Tour - Best Spots in Le Marais: $68
  • Dinner with Customized Wine Selection: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paris 77
    San Remo 23
Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Louvre Entry for Two
    18
  • Admission to Pantheon
    5.00
  • Catacombs (2)
    23

Tours and Activities in Paris

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

  • Île de la Cité: Guided Tour + Sainte-Chapelle Fast Track Entry: $55
  • Musée d'Orsay Skip-the-Line Fully Guided Tour: $56
  • Napoleon Walking Tour From Empire to Exile : $38
  • Paris Boat River Seine Cruise Sightseeing TICKETS: $22
  • Paris City Center Self-Guided Walking Tour : $11
  • Paris Entrance Ticket to the Aura Invalides Immersive Show: $24
  • Paris Sightseeing Tour with Seine River Cruise from Disneyland®: $93
  • Private Tour in Medieval Paris with Latin Quarter and Panthéon: $250
  • Small Group Tour of An Artistic Odyssey at the Louvre : $148
  • Versailles Palace Skip the Line Small Group Guided Tour: $75
  • Virtual reality experience in Paris: $33
  • Île de la Cité - Sainte-Chapelle & Conciergerie Tour Private Tour: $175

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paris 24
    San Remo 14
Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:


  • Wine
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $11
  • Original Paris Pub Crawl : $16
  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $20
  • Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $22
  • Paris Bar Crawl: $24
  • Paris Latin Quarter Pub Crawl Bars and Clubs: $24
  • Paris Pub Crawl: $25
  • Audio guided tour and wine tasting at Caves du Louvre: $32
  • Paris Craft gin distillery guided Tour & Tasting in English: $32
  • Paris Gin Craft Distillery Tour and Tasting: $33
  • Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $39
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $43


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and San Remo, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is San Remo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Remo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Remo 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 San Remo.

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


Which is Bigger, Paris or San Remo?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Paris and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 Paris or San Remo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and San Remo. The summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Remo this time of year.

In July, Paris is generally cooler than San Remo. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 20°C (68°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Remo this time of the year. In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paris usually receives less sunshine than San Remo during summer. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paris usually receives more rain than San Remo. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paris 20°C (68°F) 
    San Remo 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Paris or San Remo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paris as well as San Remo. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Paris is cooler than San Remo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and San Remo fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Paris often gets less sunshine than San Remo. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Remo. Paris usually gets less rain in October than San Remo. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paris 13°C (56°F) 
    San Remo 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Paris or San Remo in the Winter?

Both San Remo and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Remo in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. In the winter, Paris is much colder than San Remo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paris in January average around 5°C (40°F), and San Remo averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than San Remo during winter. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paris usually receives less rain than San Remo. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paris 5°C (40°F) 
    San Remo 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Paris or San Remo in the Spring?

Both San Remo and Paris during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In the spring, Paris often gets less sunshine than San Remo. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in April than San Remo. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paris 11°C (52°F) 
    San Remo 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for San Remo and Paris

Paris San Remo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)