A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paris vs. Siena for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Paris or Siena?

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

Should I visit Paris or Siena? 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 bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Siena

Siena is a beautiful, romantic, and charming city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Siena?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Siena, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Siena is known for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Siena and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Siena is popular for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Siena can be an interesting and educational experience. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

Is Paris or Siena Better for Theater?

Paris is very popular for theatre. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Siena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Paris or Siena Better for Nightlife?

Paris is very popular for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Paris or Siena Better for Music?

Paris is very popular for live music. However, Siena is not a live music destination.

Paris is a world class music destination. 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.

Siena is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Siena Better for its Old Town?

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

Siena has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Siena?

Paris is very popular for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Paris or Siena Better for Christmas?

Paris is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Siena does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a fantastic destination at 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.

Siena does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Siena Better for Families?

Paris is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Paris or Siena Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Paris and Siena make for a world-class place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, Siena has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

Is Paris or Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is very popular for backpackers. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Paris or Siena Better for Students?

Paris is very popular for students. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Siena is a great city to visit as a student. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

Paris is very popular for its public transit. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Paris has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Paris or Siena a more walkable city?

Paris and Siena 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.

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Paris?

How long in Paris or Siena?

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

Families should spend more time in Paris than Siena. 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 Siena. 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 Siena 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 Siena?

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 Siena, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this romantic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This 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 Siena?

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 Siena. 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 Siena?

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.

Siena is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Siena. 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 Siena?

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 history destination of Siena. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Paris or Siena?

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

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 Siena in the Summer?

Both Siena and Paris during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Siena for the family-friendly experiences.

Paris is cooler than Siena in the summer. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Siena, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paris. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Siena. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Siena. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Siena in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Siena. 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 Siena in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Paris is cooler than Siena. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paris in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Siena averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Siena during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Siena. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paris or Siena in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paris as well as Siena. 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 Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Paris is generally much colder than Siena. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 5°C (40°F), and Siena fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Siena. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in January than Siena. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Siena in the Spring?

Both Siena and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. 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 Siena because of the natural beauty.

Paris is around the same temperature as Siena in the spring. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Siena during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives less rain than Siena. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Siena and Paris