A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paris vs. Sestri Levante for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Paris or Sestri Levante?

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

Should I visit Paris or Sestri Levante? 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 iconic, bustling, and energetic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a scenic, local, and quaint seaside town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches.

Paris and Sestri Levante: 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Paris or Sestri Levante?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paris than Sestri Levante, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paris is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Sestri Levante is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Paris is more touristy than Sestri Levante and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Sestri Levante is well known for its two bays and coastal setting.

The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Sestri Levante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its historical sights. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Theater?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Sestri Levante is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Paris that are not to be missed. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Sestri Levante is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Paris have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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, Sestri Levante makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Nightlife?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for nightlife.

Paris is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.


Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Music?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its music scene. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Resorts?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Paris is not a resort destination.

Sestri Levante has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Beaches?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Sestri Levante is a good option for a beach vacation. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Paris is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Sestri Levante?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Christmas?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Sestri Levante does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Paris is a top place to visit during 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.

Sestri Levante does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Families?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

Paris is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.


Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Couples?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

Paris is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.

Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

Is Paris or Sestri Levante Better for Students?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Sestri Levante is not popular with students.

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

Sestri Levante is not popular with students.


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

Paris
Sestri Levante

Paris is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its public transit.

Paris has a great public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Sestri Levante has a few public transit options. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

Is Paris or Sestri Levante a more walkable city?

Paris
Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Sestri Levante is a very easy seaside town to get around on foot. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Sestri Levante or Paris?

How long in Paris or Sestri Levante?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paris and Sestri Levante. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Sestri Levante. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sestri Levante.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paris 3-7 
    Sestri Levante 1-3

One day in Paris or Sestri Levante?

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Even though Sestri Levante is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This seaside 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 Sestri Levante?

Paris is a great place to explore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sestri Levante. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Sestri Levante?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Sestri Levante is a fun place to experience. Sestri Levante is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paris or Sestri Levante?

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Sestri Levante is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, and The Best Historical Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante is €143. 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 Sestri Levante in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paris 151
    Sestri Levante 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paris 302
    Sestri Levante 150
Compare Hotels in Paris and Sestri Levante

Looking for a hotel in Paris or Sestri Levante? 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 Sestri Levante


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 Sestri Levante Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paris 21
    Sestri Levante 56
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:

  • Versailles: Skip-the-Line Day Tour & Transfer from Paris: $2,567
  • Private Transfer to or from Toulouse: $1,390
  • From Le Havre/Honfleur: Private Transfer to Versailles: $1,389
  • Private Transfer to or from Lyon: $962
  • Private Transfer to or from Strasbourg: $962
  • Private Transfer from Paris City to Le Havre: $273
  • Private Airport Transfer Paris - Round Trip: $272
  • Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Round Trip Transfer to/from Paris: $272
  • Private transfer from Beauvais airport to Paris or back: $268
  • Private Transfer to or from Beauvais Airport: $267
  • Private Transfer between Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris by Van: $262
  • Private Direct Transfer From Paris to Reims: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Paris or Sestri Levante?

Prices for flights to both Sestri Levante 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
    Sestri Levante 34
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
    Sestri Levante 25
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

Tours and Activities in Sestri Levante

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

  • Punta Manara Hiking Tour: $503

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paris 24
    Sestri Levante 7.86
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 Sestri Levante, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Sestri Levante much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sestri Levante would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante.

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


Which is Bigger, Paris or Sestri Levante?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Sestri Levante. When comparing the sizes of Paris and Sestri Levante, 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.